To replenish pallets of product picked by associates working in pick modules or on rack supported platforms, most facilities use forklifts to deliver the loads to a pallet drop zone at an aisle-side ledge. ANSI MH16.1: Specification for the Design, Testing and Utilization of Industrial Steel Storage Racks (published by RMI) requires guardrails. These safety devices provide fall protection around the perimeter of the elevated work platform or its walkways. However, in certain cases, the standard also allows for temporarily removable mechanisms that enable this access.
ANSI MH16.1 offers several alternatives are offered to provide accessibility yet still preserve employee safety, provided that the devices match the strength and configuration requirements of the adjacent permanent guardrail.
Further details are in ANSI MH32.1: Stairs, Ladders, and Open-Edge Guards for Use with Material Handling Structures. RMI partnered with the Storage Manufacturers Association (SMA) to develop this standard. Its provisions specifically apply to industrial racking pick modules; decked-over platforms; industrial shelving pick modules and decked-over platforms; and free-standing work platforms.
Temporary Guarding in an Elevated Work Platform
Temporary guarding options include:
- Safety gates that either swing open to one side or that consist of two interconnected protective barriers that raise, lower, slide, or pivot in tandem.
- Removable guardrail sections equipped with a personal fall-protection system.
- Removable chains or cables for pallet drop zones, also equipped with a personal fall-protection system.
Additionally, as a best practice to further protect the elevated platform structure and the workers on it, forklift operator training is critical. Teach forklift operators to approach these loading and unloading areas with caution. They should also alert personnel working overhead that pallet placement or removal is imminent. For increased visibility, paint the beams at this elevated drop zone opening a different color. Using red or yellow helps forklift drivers more accurately place or retrieve the load.
Need additional information about other structural elements that protect workers on pick modules? 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.
