Navigating standards for steel racks

A quick-start guide for smart warehouse investments

Steel racks play a pivotal role in a warehouse or distribution centre, but their efficacy relies on proper design, manufacturing and installation. Construction standards are developed for this very reason: besides ensuring the safety of both workers and assets stored within the building, standards also provide specifications for structural integrity, code compliance, interoperability and risk management.

In 2014, CSA Group published CSA S16:14, Design of steel structures. The update to this standard included significant adjustments to Annex N, Design and construction of steel storage racks, to bring the design of storage racks into compliance with the remainder of the standard, according to the CSA Group’s website. This document provides critical guidelines when it comes to the design and manufacture of steel racks and is an important read for those looking to invest in racking systems. This standard was revised in 2019 before the release of the new S345:23, Design and construction of steel storage racks, which was published to eventually replace Annex N.

Despite their common use, there’s no one-size-fits-all rack system that applies to each warehouse. Racking is unique and must be designed specifically with the end use in mind. When preparing to purchase racking for your operation, here are some top-level insights to keep in mind to ensure your racking complies with all necessary codes and standards.

Definitions and inclusions

The updated mandatory guidelines outlined in Annex N refer to requirements for the design of free-standing, selective-type storage racks, where the principal structural components are upright frames and load support beams, made from hot-rolled or cold-formed steel. The Annex lists specifications for steel quality, welding, fabricator and erector qualifications and existing rack components, noting all should be in accordance with the appropriate standards and codes, and inspected and certified by qualified professionals. Prior to installation, be sure to review the design provisions, including structural integrity and load, to ensure your racking system will be sufficient for your needs.

Safety considerations  

As the design and contents of warehouses vary, it’s important to consider the geographic location and environmental factors that will also contribute to the safety and integrity of a racking system. For example, racks located outside and exposed to wind and snow must be designed in accordance with the National Building Code, and Annex N lists provisions for seismic force and earthquakes. An engineer must perform a seismic analysis that complies with Annex N and related clauses, and racks must comply to a number of provisions related to weight calculations, weight distribution, installation and mounting and more.

Testing and qualifications

To ensure that racking is compliant with all standards and codes, rack manufacturers work with engineering teams to build and design customized racking systems specific to a warehouse’s dimensions, needs and unique design. Purchasing pre-owned racking may be a cost-effective option, but it’s important to proceed with caution: used racks were not built with your warehouse in mind. Be sure to have rack components inspected for compliance with appropriate codes. Physical testing will include protocols for design, detailing and construction features.

The bottom line

Rack manufacturers must provide customers with proper documentation about the capacity and use of the rack, and any modifications to racks or configurations should be approved by an engineer with appropriate documentation. When in doubt, ask questions about the design, construction and configuration of the rack you plan to purchase.

As stated in Annex N, “the rack user shall be responsible to ensure that the racks are configured, maintained and used in accordance with the documentation provided with the rack manufacturer.”

In simple terms, this means as a user, the safety of your staff, building and inventory depends on your due diligence. Consult an Etalex representative with questions and refer to CSA S16:19 and Annex N for full details.