In warehousing, maximizing storage space is a must. At the same time, doing so is also a constant challenge for businesses.
This is where the concept of high-piled storage comes into play — an innovative solution to battle the spatial limitations that many warehouses encounter. High-piled storage involves stacking goods vertically to utilize the maximum available height of the warehouse.
However, before implementing this storage strategy, businesses first need to secure a high-piled storage permit, which calls for an in-depth understanding and adherence to specific guidelines and regulations.
What Is High-Piled Storage?
High-piled storage, as the name suggests, refers to a storage system that involves stacking goods, commodities, or materials in high piles — specifically piles that are greater than 12 feet in height. The term “high pile” comes from the vertical arrangement of goods, stacked high above the floor level.
This storage methodology is particularly beneficial in warehouses with high ceilings as it optimizes the use of the available vertical space, allowing for a greater volume of items to be stored. It can significantly increase a warehouse’s storage capacity, promoting greater efficiency and productivity in warehouse operations.
Due to the potential fire hazards and safety risks associated with stacking goods at such heights, high-piled storage is subject to stringent fire codes and regulations, necessitating a special high-piled storage permit.
Understanding High-Piled Storage Permits
A high-piled storage permit is generally issued by the fire marshal of the municipality or jurisdiction. Generally, warehouses with storage areas of more than 500 square feet (including the aisles) and vertical storage arrangements of over 12 feet need such a permit.
Permits are issued to specific businesses, making them non-transferable. They must also be renewed twice yearly or whenever the business makes any changes to the warehouse’s storage layout or arrangement.
Without the proper permit, business owners can potentially face compliance citations and hefty fines. There is also a possibility of legal ramifications or even operations getting shut down, which could result in significant financial losses. In extreme cases, unauthorized high-piled storage may even lead to catastrophic events such as a fire outbreak, causing extensive property damage and endangering lives.
Requirements for Getting a High-Piled Storage Permit
Obtaining a permit involves meeting a set of stringent criteria designed to mitigate the potential fire hazards and safety risks that come with high-piled storage. These requirements may vary based on the nature of the goods stored, the storage height, and the overall size of the storage area.
Below are common minimum requirements to secure a high-piled storage permit.
Floor and Site Plans
High-piled storage plans are required for all new high-piled storage buildings or facilities, or high-piled storage arrangements within existing buildings. These plans must show the location of the racks, the doors or exits, sprinklers, and more.
Emergency Exits
All exits, fire lanes, and paths to emergency exits must be clearly outlined in the site plans. Ensuring clear and accessible emergency exits is crucial in case of fire or other emergencies.
Sprinkler Systems
High-piled storage areas must be equipped with an automatic sprinkler system. The sprinkler system must be designed to provide adequate coverage and discharge density.
Height Clearance
Adequate clearance must be maintained between the top of the storage and the sprinkler deflectors. The clearance must be at least 18 inches.
Aisle Width
Sufficient aisle width is important in high-piled storage areas to allow for the movement of material handling equipment and personnel. The aisles must be wide enough to accommodate the equipment, such as forklifts.
Lighting
To ensure the safety of personnel working in high-piled storage areas, adequate lighting is crucial to allow for easy movement. The lighting design should effectively minimize shadows and glare.
Fire Extinguishers
Fire extinguishers must be provided all around high-piled storage areas. The number and location of fire extinguishers must comply with local fire codes, and they should be outlined in the plans.
Ensure Storage Safety and Optimal Space Usage With LINCO
At LINCO, we fully understand the complexities surrounding the setup and management of high-piled storage warehouses, so we offer our services to help businesses satisfy all requirements.
Our comprehensive DockUp Integrated Warehouse Solutions helps businesses ensure their warehousing needs are met with precision, safety, and efficiency. Through this service, our experts can assist you every step of the way — from making the warehouse racking layout to safety consultations and proper installation to ensure the approval of your high-piled storage permit.
Reach out to LINCO today for a seamless, professional solution. Visit our contact page or call us at (866) 306-9566 to discuss your specific needs.