Preface

This is the first edition of CSA A344, User guide for steel storage racks. It replaces CSA A344.1 published under the same title in 2005.

Following the withdrawal of CSA A344.2, and its subsequent incorporation into CSA S16, this Guide has been designed as a stand-alone document. The contents of this new Guide have been expanded from the contents of A344.1 and are linked with both CSA S16 and CSA B335.

This Guide, used in conjunction with CSA B335, establishes the requirements for a safe environment where steel storage racks and lift trucks are the primary equipment of the workplace. The typical workplaces affected by these documents are warehouses and distribution center.

Significant changes from CSA A344.1 include:

a) extensive references to CSA S16;

b) addition of many illustrations and photos;

c) addition of example reporting forms;

d) addition of provisions for fasteners and bolts (Clause 6.5);

e) expansion of the clause on the use of racking systems (Clause 7);

f) expansion of the clause on the assessment of damage and deficiencies (Clause 8.2);

g) expansion of the clause on corrective actions (Clause 8.3);

h) addition of a new clause on modifications to racking systems (Clause 8.4); and

i) addition of provisions for the linking of the Guide to requirements in building codes and OHS legislation, and to structural requirements in CSA S16 (Clause 9).

Scope

1.1
This Guide applies primarily to selective pallet racks, although the principles set out in this Guide may be used when purchasing and using other types of racks, such as double-deep, push-back, drive-in and drive-through racks, cantilever racks, portable racks, rack-supported buildings, and stacker racks.

1.2
This Guide is limited to pallet racks made of steel that are typically constructed from cold-formed members and/or hot rolled structural sections.

1.3
This Guide is intended for persons who create specifications for, purchase, and use steel storage racks. In referencing this Guide, the users of steel storage racks will become aware of the considerations required to ensure that their rack installation meets the conditions of the work environment and user expectations.

1.4
This Guide does not apply to shelving.

1.5
This Guide is written in non-mandatory language. In this Guide, "should" is used to express a recommendation or that which is advised but not required, and "may" is used to express an option or that which is permissible within the limits of the Guide.