When technical or tax auditors visit a distribution center, two documents are frequently requested: a topographic survey report and structural test certificates.
Without these documents, the company cannot prove that it is operating in compliance with technical and safety standards.
Ultimately, irregularities in warehouse flooring, misaligned structures, and loads applied without technical verification have something in common: they all generate risks that can result in fines, accidents, and unplanned operational shutdowns.
THE topographic survey Identifies irregularities in floor leveling and structural positioning.
You structural tests They prove that columns, stringers, fasteners, and connectors can withstand the applied loads.
Together, these services form the technical basis for ensuring safety, avoiding labor liabilities, and keeping operations running without interruption.
In this article, you will understand how each service works, why they are essential for compliance, and how they reduce risks that directly affect business continuity.
What is topographic surveying and why is it essential in warehousing?
Topographic surveying is the precise measurement of the building, floor, and structures installed in the warehouse.
The objective is to identify irregularities that compromise operational safety and regulatory compliance.
In the context of storage, topographic surveying assesses:
- Floor leveling: Check if the floor has unevenness, undulations, or inclines that compromise the verticality of the storage structures. Uneven floors cause overload at specific points on the columns, increasing the risk of collapse.
- Positioning of the structures: Confirm that pallet racks, drive-ins, and other structures are positioned according to the original design. Misalignments may indicate foundation problems or floor movement over time.
- Contour lines: It maps the warehouse's terrain with millimeter precision, generating a detailed map that serves as a basis for future corrections and adjustments.
This service is especially important in warehouses that have been in operation for more than 5 years, where soil movements, differential settlement, and intensive use of forklifts may have altered the original conditions of the floor.
NBR 13133 establishes the technical procedures for the execution of topographic surveys, This ensures that the data collected is reliable and can be used in technical reports and compliance processes.
How do structural tests prove the safety of structures?
Structural tests are laboratory tests performed on components of storage structures to verify that they can withstand the loads specified in the design.
THE Bertolini Technology Center It performs eight types of tests in accordance with national and international technical standards:
- Tensile test: Evaluates the strength of fasteners and connections under tensile stress.
- Short column test: Tests the load-bearing capacity of columns under controlled compression conditions.
- Compression test on columns: It measures the axial compressive strength of complete columns.
- Flexural test on connectors: Check if the connectors can withstand lateral loads without permanent deformation.
- Floor connection test: It proves the strength of the fasteners that hold the structures to the floor.
- Bending test on column sections: Evaluates the behavior of columns under bending loads.
- Shear test on connectors and locks: Tests the shear strength of critical components.
- Flexural test on stringers: Confirms that the stringers can support pallet loads without excessive deformation.
These tests generate technical reports that prove compliance with NBR 17150 and EN 15512, standards that establish safety requirements for static pallet storage systems.
It is worth noting that companies operating without these reports are exposed to three main risks:
- fines for non-compliance in inspections
- civil and criminal liability in case of accidents
- operational shutdowns forced by embargoes
How do topographic surveys and structural tests reduce labor liabilities?
Labor liabilities related to accidents in storage This is a real risk for companies that operate without technical compliance.
When an accident involving storage structures results in injury or fatality, the technical investigation seeks to verify whether the company took all mandatory preventive measures. Two documents are frequently requested:
- Topographic survey report: This proves that the company monitored the condition of the floor and structures.
- Structural testing certificates: This demonstrates that the structures were designed and tested in accordance with technical standards.
Without these documents, the company is in a vulnerable position in labor lawsuits, as it cannot prove that it adopted adequate preventive measures.
Furthermore, NR 12 (Occupational Safety in Machinery and Equipment) requires that equipment and structures be maintained in safe operating conditions. That's why, topographic surveys Structural tests are ways to prove this conformity in an objective and documented manner.
When should you request topographic surveys and structural tests?
These services aren't just for new warehouses. Existing operations also need them in specific situations:
- After 5 years of operation
Soil movement and intensive use may have altered the floor's leveling. - Before security audits or certifications
ISO 9001, ISO 45001 and other certifications require proof of technical conformity. - After accidents or incidents
To investigate causes and verify corrective actions. - Before expansions or retrofits
To confirm that the existing floor and structural conditions can support new systems. - In due diligence processes
Buyers of logistics properties require technical reports to assess risks. - When buying used structures
To prove that components purchased from third parties meet safety requirements.
The ideal frequency for topographic surveys varies depending on the operation profile, but the market standard recommends reviews every 3 to 5 years in high-volume warehouses.
See also: 12 Proven Maintenance Practices for Storage Systems – Exclusive Infographic.
FAQ – Frequently asked questions about topographic surveying and structural testing.
What is a topographic survey and what is it used for?
It is the precise measurement of the warehouse floor, structures, and building to identify irregularities that compromise safety. It serves to verify compliance, detect problems before they become critical, and provide a technical basis for corrections.
What are the types of topographic surveying?
There are three main types: planimetric (measures only horizontal dimensions), altimetric (measures differences in level and slopes), and planialtimetric (combines both, being the most complete for storage).
Is a topographic survey required by law?
There is no specific legal requirement, but NBR 17150 requires that structures be installed on level floors without irregularities. Topographic surveying is the technical way to verify this conformity.
Who is qualified to conduct a topographic survey?
Only professionals registered with CREA (engineers) or CAU (architects) with specialization in surveying can perform this service. The technical report must be accompanied by an ART (Technical Responsibility Certificate) to have legal validity.
Technical compliance that protects people, structures, and businesses.
Topographic surveying and structural testing are not mere bureaucratic procedures. They are investments in compliance, safety, and operational continuity.
At Bertolini Storage Systems, we offer surveying services with high-precision equipment and structural testing performed on-site. Bertolini Technology Center, with the capacity to test loads of up to 30 tons in accordance with NBR 17150 and EN 15512 standards.
Each service is performed by qualified professionals, with the issuance of an ART (Technical Responsibility Certificate) and complete technical documentation to prove the conformity and safety of its structures.
Do you want to ensure your warehouse is compliant and protected against avoidable risks? Talk to our experts. Discover how Bertolini's service portfolio can strengthen the security of your operation.
