Pallet Racking Consenting And Engineering Essential Information
Pallet Racking is considered under the NZ Building Code to be an integral part of the building structure. Consequently, if you are considering installing a new pallet racking system, consenting, and engineering is something that you will need to consider.
Engineering and Producer Statements
From the engineering side, pallet racking systems generally require the following:
- PS1 – Engineering Design. This is the design specified by a qualified engineer that will ensure the racking is suitable, taking into consideration various elements including, seismic zone, warehouse floor, concrete quality, pallet weight, racking height, and more. The specifications detailed in the PS1 are based off a number of standards including:
- The Building Act 2004 & Building Amendment Act 2005
- AS 4084- 2012
- AS / NZS 1170:2002 Structural Design Actions. Part 5: Earthquake actions
- BRANZ updated guide 2011 for High Level Storage Systems
- PS2 – Peer Review. These are occasionally required by Council and entails an independent review of the PS1 by a different engineering firm. This is like a quality check and is required on more complex projects to ensure that the racking design is fit-for-purpose.
- PS3 – Installation Certification. These are supplied by Shelving Depot which certify that the pallet racking structure has been installed in accordance with the drawings and specifications detailed on the PS1/PS2.
- PS4 – Construction Review. This is generally supplied by the engineer who provided the PS1. This Producer Statement certifies that the pallet racking structure has been installed to the correct specifications and looks at components of the installation including, fastenings, racking dimensions, safety signage, and more.
Council Consenting
When approaching your local council for consent, it is important to note that they will not only look at the pallet racking structure(s) but also the building where the racking is. Going down the track of full consent will likely involve checking that any changes to the building are compliant, such as location of doorways, staircases etc. A fire, emergency lighting, and egress design will also likely be required.
Minimum Requirements
Regardless of where you are in the country it is important that you know your pallet racking is fit for purpose and safe. To do this, as a minimum, we suggest you obtain a PS1 and a PS4. This will tell you that the racking has been designed and installed to a suitable standard. The advantage of attaining these two Producer Statements is that, should you go ahead with the consenting process, you have assurance that the racking is designed for your location and required loadings.
The risks of not getting a PS1 and PS4 on your pallet racking include (but are not limited to):
- Council non-compliance – should this be the case; expensive remedial works may be required to bring racking up to specifications. In some cases, this has resulted in pallet racking systems being completely replaced.
- Pallet Racking not fit-for-purpose for your location, facility, and pallet loads.
- Pallet Racking unsafe or unknowingly overloaded.
Who Can Help?
Without following the correct procedures regarding pallet racking engineering and consenting your racking has the potential to cause you major headaches. As Pallet Racking is a major investment and a key driver to success in any business, it is vital to get it right the first time by seeking advice from knowledgeable experts.
At Shelving Depot, we have an experienced team who are willing and able to assist you with the Producer Statements and Consenting Process.
Whether you have a few short runs of racking or a 10,000sqm warehouse this is something you should consider so get in touch with our team today.
