To keep up with changing customer expectations and handling needs, facilities are changing faster than ever before. Because of its inherent flexibility, operations may take a closer look at their current rack installation and considering either relocating or reconfiguring it to accommodate evolving business demands. In recognition of that increasing possibility, RMI has produced and released a new video. The recording shares guidelines for proper relocation and reconfiguration of rack to ensure a safe working environment. The video runs less than three minutes.
Video Highlights Guidelines for Reconfiguring Rack
Among the key points in the video are to engage a qualified, experienced rack engineer prior to making any changes to the rack system’s structure. Prior to reconfiguration, the rack design engineer will review the original load application and rack configuration (LARC) drawing. This document details the location, configuration and capacity of the rack. Multiple approved configurations utilizing the same components may already exist in the LARC drawings. These different configurations can be safely implemented as noted without any further documentation required.
Operations seeking to utilize the same rack components in a configuration not pre-approved in the LARC drawing must consult the original rack manufacturer or an engineer of record. This consultation should occur before making any changes to the current structure. Approval of a proposed reconfiguration necessitates updates to existing LARC drawings to reflect those changes. Rack owners unable to locate their system’s original LARC drawings should contact the rack’s manufacturer to obtain a copy.
Key Considerations Before Relocating Rack
Before relocating racking from one facility to another, it’s important to determine when the rack was installed. Depending on that date, the building codes may have changed. Relocated racking is subject to the most current codes and specifications when it is installed in its new location. A qualified rack engineer must evaluate and approve the rack design prior to disassembling and moving to ensure its suitability for use in a different location. This is particularly important when relocating rack from one geographic location to another—where different seismic requirements may apply.
Finally, before commissioning, inspect the relocated or reconfigured rack to ensure that no damaged components were used without being properly repaired or replaced.
Watch Other RMI Videos
This video is the fourth in a planned series of industrial steel storage rack safety videos. All RMI Rack Safety videos can be seen here.
