Fire codes and pallet rack load
beams
How to stay
out of hot water
Historically, most
selective pallet rack systems have been designed with even spacing
between loads and upright frames. As shown in Figure 1, 92-inch beams
would be used with 4" spacings throughout, with standard 40-inch wide
loads.
Figure 1
However,
according to the National Fire Protection Association, there must be a
six inch horizontal "flue space" between loads in a rack structure. This
means that a 92-inch beam length may still be used, however the loads
need to be located as shown in Figure 2, below:
Figure 2
This variation in pallet location is the reason that you need to
specify the location of pallet support bars when the beams are to be
punched for this purpose. Examples include slots in step beams for
snap-in supports, and holes in channel beams for bolt-in supports.
Your installer will also need to be aware of this detail when
installing pallet support bars that are attached to the beams using
tek screws.
Verifying the fire code used by the local building department
will help you to be certain that your projects are fabricated and
installed correctly.
We can assist you in designing code-compliant rack systems that
maximize storage space and safety. For more information, contact
Cisco-Eagle. You can submit a racking inquiry, or call us toll-free.
