Does wire mesh decking need to be secured to the warehouse storage rack? Of course, wire mesh decking must be securely fastened to the rack. This is a crucial safety issue.
Not securely fastening wire mesh decking can pose a significant safety hazard and violate safety standards and regulations, including those of the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).
The following details the necessity of securing wire mesh decking, the risks of not securing it, and how to secure wire mesh decking.
Why is it important to secure the wire mesh decking?
- Prevents Dislodgement:
The primary reason is to prevent the wire mesh decking from being accidentally kicked, bumped, or shifted off the pallet rack beam during loading and unloading. An unsecured wire mesh deck can easily slip, especially if the pallets are unevenly stacked.
- Maintain Structural Integrity:
A properly secured wire mesh decking is an integral part of the racking structure. It helps distribute the weight and provides lateral stability to the entire storage racking system, preventing sway.
- Eliminates Fall Hazards:
A displaced wire mesh deck creates a large gap, creating a serious fall hazard for employees working around the warehouse storage rack. It can also cause items or tools to fall from above.
- Ensures Even Load Support:
Secured wire mesh decking ensures it is properly seated on the load beams, allowing it to support its intended load-bearing capacity. An unsecured wire mesh deck that is not fully seated can bend or fail under load.
- OSHA Compliance:
OSHA regulations, such as 29 CFR 1910.176(b), require that materials be stored safely and without hazard. Using unsecured wire mesh decks that can shift is a clear violation of regulations.
The dangers of unsecured wire mesh decking
- Collapse:
Displaced wire mesh decking can cause pallets to fall, potentially leading to the collapse of the entire rack bay.
- Injury or Fatality:
Pallets and products falling from height can cause serious injury or death to workers below.
- Product Damage:
Falling inventory can cause significant financial losses.
- Regulatory Fines:
The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) can impose substantial fines for unsafe warehouse conditions.
How to properly secure wire mesh decking?
Wire mesh decks aren’t simply laid onto beams; they’re mechanically secured. The standard and most secure method is to use wire mesh decking clips (also called retaining clips or decking fasteners).
- Decking Clips:
These are small, sturdy metal clips that are specifically designed for this purpose.
- How it works:
The clips are placed on the bottom flange of the warehouse storage rack’s load-bearing beams, and the decking’s wires are then snapped or slid into the clips. The wire mesh decking is then locked in place, and cannot be lifted without intentionally removing the clips.
- Important:
The number and placement of the clips are important. Manufacturers provide guidelines, but a general rule is to use at least two clips per wire mesh decking (one at each end of each beam). For longer spans or heavier loads, more clips may be required.
Key Takeaways:
Never use wire mesh decking without securing them.
Always use the decking clips recommended by the manufacturer.
During routine warehouse storage rack inspections, check the clips and wire mesh decking to ensure they are secure and intact.
Train employees to recognize the importance of secure wire mesh decks and to report any issues immediately.
Securing wire mesh decks is a simple and cost-effective step that is essential to maintaining safe and efficient warehouse operations.
