Overview
Caster compliance is often treated as a secondary concern. In reality, it is a growing source of operational, safety, and legal risk.
Global sourcing, private-label products, and unverified imports have increased uncertainty. Many buyers cannot confirm where a caster was manufactured or how it was tested.
Why Compliance Risk Has Increased
- More private-label and imported casters entering the market
- Inconsistent documentation across suppliers
- Higher automation duty cycles exposing weak components
- Increased focus on workplace safety and liability
Visual similarity does not indicate compliance. Two casters can look identical and perform very differently under load.
Common Standards and Certifications
| Standard | What It Covers | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| ANSI / ICWM | Load ratings and performance testing | Prevents under-rated applications |
| RoHS | Material and chemical compliance | Reduces environmental and health risk |
| ISO 9001 | Manufacturing process control | Ensures consistency and traceability |
Where Non-Compliant Casters Fail
- Wheel material breakdown under continuous load
- Bearing failure due to inadequate testing
- Structural deformation not visible during inspection
- Unknown material composition creating safety exposure
These failures often occur months after installation. By then, documentation is difficult to trace.
How to Reduce Liability Exposure
- Source casters with documented testing and standards
- Request certifications and material disclosures
- Standardize approved caster models
- Work with suppliers that understand application risk
For a broader view of how compliance fits into industrial trends, see the 2026 Industrial Forecast.