Associates working within pick modules or on rack supported platforms to retrieve items stored above the facility floor access those higher levels via stairways. Protecting those workers from falls is, therefore, of critical importance. For that reason, the safe design of stairs is included in RMI’s ANSI MH16.1-2012: Specification for the Design, Testing and Utilization of Industrial Steel Storage Racks, as sub-section 8.4.4 within the “Pick Modules and Rack Supported Platforms” guidelines.

Additionally, RMI partnered with the Storage Manufacturers Association (SMA) to develop ANSI MH32.1-2018: Stairs, Ladders, and Open-Edge Guards for Use with Material Handling Structures, a standard whose provisions specifically apply to fixed stairways attached to structures, such as industrial racking pick modules; decked-over platforms; industrial shelving pick modules and decked-over platforms; and free-standing work platforms.

The sections pertaining to stairs in both documents apply solely to stairs used by trained personnel—as opposed to those used by the public. However, it is important to note that many municipalities have (and enforce) specific requirements for stairs that may be more stringent than those called for in the RMI and RMI/SMA standards.

The RMI and RMI/SMA standards detail a variety of requirements intended to keep operators safe while traversing the stairs, such as:

Looking for more details about safe stair design for elevated work platforms? Download a free copy of the RMI/SMA ANSI MH32.1-2018: Stairs, Ladders, and Open-Edge Guards for Use with Material Handling Structures specification, here.