Newly adopted ANSI code standards and fire safety requirements — primarily those associated with seismic and fire events — are causing a significant transformation in the landscape of warehouse pallet rack design. These changes are reshaping how storage systems are engineered and shaking up industry leadership among pallet rack manufacturers and safety product suppliers.
Seismic Compliance
One of the most important updates in the ANSI/RMI standards involves accounting for down-aisle seismic forces in the event of an earthquake, especially in seismic-prone regions governed by International Building Code (IBC) compliance. To meet these new standards, pallet racks must be designed with larger beam connectors on lower levels, added horizontal and diagonal bracing, and enlarged baseplates to anchor uprights to the floor.
Unarco Material Handling has been at the forefront of these changes. Their engineering team has taken a leadership role in pushing for these code updates, ensuring their pallet rack systems meet and exceed current seismic standards. Well known as having the finest Engineering team in the industry, Unarco has positioned itself as an innovator in a new era of pallet rack safety and compliance.
One of the biggest questions facing warehouse managers and facility engineers is whether existing pallet rack systems must be retrofit or replaced to meet the new codes – not only single select pallet rack but also high density pallet storage rack systems like pushback and pallet flow systems that are 20′ deep or deeper.
Unfortunately, there is no universal answer. Determining code compliance for older systems typically falls under the jurisdiction of building inspectors, fire marshals, local code officials, insurers, and engineering firms like SeizmicInc.com. We strongly recommend consulting with these professionals to ensure your facility is not only compliant but safe.
Fire Code Compliance
Recent updates to fire safety codes, particularly those established by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), have placed a greater emphasis on maintaining proper longitudinal and transverse flue spaces within high-density pallet rack systems. These regulations are designed to enhance fire suppression effectiveness by ensuring that overhead sprinklers can operate without obstruction. Worldwide Material Handling (WWMH), the manufacturing leader in pallet rack accessories has introduced a new line of Patented Warehouse Fire Safety Products to meet these needs.
Single and double Worldstops are longitudinal flue space protectors that are designed to insure a consistent 6″ flue space between pallets stored in back to back row. In many cases a 6″ flue space is required by Fire Marshall’s and insurance companies. The patented 12″ double pallet stop prevents pallets from entering the flue space area. Designed to meet International Building Code 2012 (IBC 2012) and NFPA 13 requirements where applicable.
The 3″ d. x 5″ h. universal fit Single pallet stops are designed for single rows of pallet rack but can also be used in back to back rows. These longitudinal flue space protectors not only help maintain a 6″ flue space for fire safety but they also act as pallet stops to prevent dangerous pallet push through.
Worldwide Material Handling (WWMH) has also developed a patented U-Divider that acts as a transverse flue space protector helping to maintain 6″ flue space for fire safety. They provide a 3″ transverse flue space on each side of the upright post (6″ total) allowing your sprinklers to function at full capacity in the event of a fire.
Between the tightening seismic standards and stricter fire safety codes, the warehouse storage industry is evolving rapidly. Forward-thinking companies like Unarco and Warehouse Rack & Shelf LLC are setting the pace, delivering products and engineering solutions designed for today’s code requirements. Call us at 800-763-9020 to talk to one of our friendly and knowledgeable salespeople. We would love to discuss your code compliance needs.