New racking standards for high seismic activity

The Storage Manufacturers Association Industry Group of MHI (SMA) has announced revisions to two American National Standards: ANSI MH28.2-2022 -Design, Testing and Utilization of Industrial Steel Boltless Shelving, and ANSI MH28.3-2022 – Design, Testing and Utilization of Industrial Steel Work Platforms.

The revision of these standards aligns with SMA’s continued commitment to develop, maintain and publish standards for design, performance and safe operation of industrial steel work platforms and shelving products.

“These standards were most recently published in 2018,” says Arlin Keck of Steel King Industries, chair of SMA’s Standards Advisory Committee. “The updates primarily reflect additional guidelines for the design of boltless shelving and work platforms in high seismic areas.”

Developed by MHI and SMA, these revisions represent suggested design practices and operational requirements for industrial steel work platforms and industrial steel boltless shelving. These standards are intended to provide guidance for owners, users, designers, purchasers or specifiers of material handling equipment.

“SMA will be petitioning the International Code Council to adopt these standards into the International Building Code,” said Patrick Davison, MHI’s director of standards. “We are optimistic that these standards will be written into the building codes, similar to storage racks.”

“These approved AISC standards and ICC submissions reflect our members continued efforts to improve our industry,” said Chris Pahls of Steel King Industries and SMA chairman. “There has never been a more exciting time to participate in our growing trade group.”

These documents can be found on the SMA website at www.mhi.org/sma.

Established in 1974, the Storage Manufacturers Association (SMA) Industry Group member roster comprises suppliers of industrial storage equipment. They supply storage solutions worldwide and in virtually every major manufacturing and distribution sector.

Industrial storage equipment includes steel shelving, industrial work platforms, work and assembly stations, modular drawer equipment, clothing storage lockers, movable base storage equipment, storage containers and directly related equipment.