» Read more recent posts about the updated R-Mark Certification program and how it benefits buyers.
Owners of industrial steel storage racks bearing RMI’s R-Mark can be assured that the rack frame, beam, and decking capacities shown in a unique design’s load table were calculated in accordance with RMI’s ANSI MH16.1: Specification for the Design, Testing and Utilization of Industrial Steel Storage Racks or ANSI MH26.2: Design, Fabrication, Testing and Utilization of Welded-Wire Rack Decking. That’s just one way the designation provides confidence that the that the manufacturer of the racking components and systems has the technical and manufacturing skills, as well as the ability to produce products that meet the RMI codes and standards.
About the R-Mark Certification Process
Racking manufacturers apply voluntarily to receive R-Mark certification. The process requires a rigorous analysis of a manufacturer’s design process, including testing, calculations, and resulting component capacities. Two independent, USA registered professional engineers with experience and expertise in the design and application of racking systems perform the evaluation.
Their review and approval confirms that the calculations were performed as prescribed by the ANSI MH16.1: Specification. Manufacturers found to meet these requirements receive a certification license. This allows them to display the logo on any qualified product designed in the same manner.
What the presence of an R-Mark on a racking component does not mean, however, is that the system is safe. A variety of different factors impact every rack design and installation. These include seismic codes and requirements, state and local building requirements, load types and more. Therefore, a rack owner must still have a qualified engineer review each application.
This process will verify that the selected system components meet the requirements for the specific use and job site. In other words, if the project is completed under engineering supervision and the codes are properly applied, system owners can be confident that the installation is code-compliant and safe.
RMI Membership Not Required
RMI created the R-Mark designation in 1999. This was around the time the International Building Code (IBC) incorporated ANSI MH16.1 as the standard for the safe design and installation of racks. Before that time, there were a variety of different rack design standards in circulation. That created a challenge for buyers trying to determine which manufacturer used which standard. In response, the members of RMI created the R-Mark certification program. However, companies that are not RMI members can also earn a license.
Is your current steel storage rack supplier an active R-Mark license holder? Find a complete listing of R-Mark certified companies here.
