Is Your Warehouse Shelving Meeting Fire Code?

At AK Material Handling Systems here in Maple Grove, we specialize in offering new and used in stock warehouse shelving and pallet rack systems. We have a great list of clients located in Maple Grove and we are often asked about local Maple Grove fire codes and regulations.

It is very encouraging that our clients ask us those questions although we do not always have all the answers. So we recently asked Fire Prevention Lieutenant Keith J. Flermoen from the Maple Grove Fire Department to learn more about the local fire codes and also to learn more about fire prevention in warehouses.

Keith was very helpful and was able to offer the below information:

Pallet Rack Fire Code Information:

Minnesota State Fire Code defines warehouse racks as a shelf over 30” deep front to back. Pallet rack with solid shelf decking is not compliant to the Minnesota state Fire Code unless it has code compliant sprinklers installed with in the rack system. Standard wire mesh decking is compliant and also 2 x 4 or 2 x 6 wood is also compliant as long as  the wood has 2” spacers permanently placed between the wood. If there is a concern with small parts falling through the wire decking and the rack system one layer of cardboard atop the wood or decking is also compliant.
If solid decking is required under certain circumstances it can be approved as long as it is within 32’ square. Please check with your local inspector for exact details.

Shelving Fire Code Information:

Minnesota State Fire Code defines shelving as a shelf under 30” deep front to back. Shelving can have solid decking up to 12-15’ high depending on the warehouse layout and how the shelving is being used. Shelving with back to back solid decking is compliant with code although the shelving units need to be separated by a non combustible divider.

Pallet Rack Sprinkler Systems:

Another application where in rack sprinkler systems are required is a rack system that is storing combustible liquid such as paints and motor oils. Any questionable liquids need to be checked with the local inspector.

If you are moving into a new building or warehouse location it is very important to understand the sprinkler system that is installed. Your rack system needs to be compatible with the specs of the sprinkler system previously installed. Make sure to contact the building sprinkler contractor to get the exact specs of the sprinkler system. In The past new sprinkler systems have had to be installed to meet the height demands of the rack system because the owner did not check prior to ordering the rack system.

This blog post was posted to bring awareness to warehouse and pallet rack safety and if you are looking for more information on warehouse pallet rack and shelving fire code safety please contact the Maple Grove Fire Department directly at 763-494-6301.

AK Material Handling Systems is located at 8630 Monticello Lane N., Maple Grove, MN 55369 and can be reached at 763-493-5015.