Whether you're managing a warehouse, overseeing logistics, or responsible for workplace safety, pallet covers can be an often-overlooked yet critical component in protecting your stock, your people, and your premises.
But not all pallet covers are created equal, and when it comes to fire safety, that distinction really matters.
In this complete guide, we’ll explore what pallet covers are, where they’re used, and why fireproofing should be a top priority when choosing the right one for your operation.
What Is a Pallet Cover?
A pallet cover is a protective sheet or enclosure designed to shield goods stacked on a pallet. They're commonly used in warehousing and storage, freight and logistics operations, retail distribution and manufacturing environments.
They serve a variety of functions, from dust and weather protection to maintaining hygiene or temperature control during transit. But increasingly, they’re also being looked at through the lens of risk management, especially when it comes to fire.
Why Pallet Covers Matter in Risk-Prone Environments
In high-density storage spaces or areas with lithium-ion battery stock, aerosols, or flammable goods, a fire event can escalate quickly. Palletised goods are often shrink-wrapped in plastic, which can accelerate flame spread and release toxic gases when burned.
This is where fire-retardant pallet covers come in. They’re designed to act as a barrier against heat, sparks, or flame, slowing the spread of fire and giving staff vital time to respond or evacuate.
Fire-Retardant vs. Fireproof: Know the Difference
Let’s demystify a common misconception: fire-retardant is not the same as fireproof.
Some pallet covers on the market are fire-retardant, which means they will delay ignition and reduce flame spread, but they are not invulnerable to fire.
If your goods present a serious fire risk (e.g. lithium-ion batteries, chemical drums), you should speak with your fire risk assessor about enhanced protection options, such as fireproof pallet covers.
Where Are Fireproof Pallet Covers Commonly Used?
- Waste & recycling centres
- Battery storage facilities
- Chemical handling zones
- Manufacturing plants
- Transport depots
In many of these environments, high-risk combustible materials are often stacked close together and in high volumes, meaning a small fire event could develop rapidly into a large blaze.
The right pallet cover slows the fire’s spread and helps compartmentalise the risk.
What Should You Look for in a Fireproof Pallet Cover?
When sourcing fire-retardant pallet covers, key considerations include:
Material rating: Check if it complies with EN 13501-1 or similar standards
Thermal resistance: Can it withstand prolonged exposure to heat?
Size and fit: Is it suitable for standard pallet dimensions (e.g. Euro pallet 1200 x 800mm)?
Reusability or disposability: Does your operation need long-term or one-off use?
Ease of application: Can it be deployed quickly in a busy environment?
And importantly, is it visibly different or identifiable as fire-retardant? Clear labelling makes a difference in audits or emergency response situations.
Why Fireproofing Matters More Than Ever
Modern warehousing is evolving, and we're seeing more battery-powered goods, more packaging, and more dense stacking than ever before. UK Fire and Rescue Services have reported a rise in pallet-related fires in both storage and waste handling, and new guidance from organisations like the NFCC and insurers is placing more pressure on employers to mitigate fire spread in palletised stock.
A fire-retardant pallet cover might seem like a small detail. But in the right (or wrong) moment, it can play a big part in protecting people and assets.
In addition to our Pallet Covers, the Firechief® range of fire safety products also includes extinguisher stands, suppression systems, signage and fire safety products for all types of fires. For information, call us on +44 (0)330 999 0019 or email sales@firechiefglobal.com.
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Disclaimer
The information contained within this blog is provided solely for general informational and educational purposes and is not intended as a substitute for professional advice. Before taking any actions based upon this information, we advise the reader to consult all relevant statutory or regulatory guidance and, where necessary, to consult a qualified fire or industry regulation professional. The use or reliance on any information contained herein is solely at the reader's risk.