Wire decking is ubiquitous with selective pallet rack–it’s perhaps the most broadly-specified selective rack accessory. People use it to when they want pallet support with greater structural strength than other materials, when they want to load boxes or other non-palletized load onto racks, when they want to handle loads that aren’t deep enough to sit on uprights, and when they want to eliminate dust and debris inherent with solid decking materials…

This year, the Rack Manufacturers Institute (RMI) has released the most current version of its standards for wire pallet rack deck, MH26.2 - Specification for the Design, Testing and Utilization of Welded Wire Rack Decking. The institute offers the standards in PDF format for a free download, here. It’s a technical paper, so I’ll break it down below:Here’s how the RMI’s approval process works: Manufacturers submit evidence of tests and sample load tables, including engineering calculations, to RMI according to standardized guidelines. Following that, RMI administers process submitting documents to two-independent registered PE’s selected randomly from a pre-approved pool. If tests show the equipment meets standards, the RMI awards an R-Mark license following approval by both independent engineers.

To be sure your rack decking meets RMI standards, look for the following:

• First, check your engineering drawings. Product that meets the new standard will be produced in accordance to MH26.2 and RMark certified
• Look for the R-Mark on printed component load tables
• Ask for the R-Mark on welded wire deck drawings
• Visit RMI’s website for an upcoming list of R-Mark Wire Decking licensees (I’ve checked — as of today, that list isn’t online yet).

More resources: Standard wire deck models | Rack Estimator (with options for wire deck)

Tags: Material Handling, Pallet Rack, racking, warehouse safety, wire decking, wire mesh deck

Scott Stone is Cisco-Eagle's Advertising and E-business Manager. He is a 17-year veteran of the material handling industry. He publishes the award-winning Material Handling Tips & Information Newsletter and works on all aspects of the company's communications, marketing, and advertising efforts.