Pallet Storage
When pallets are improperly stored, they can create serious hazards, including falling items, blocked emergency pathways, and reduced fire safety effectiveness.
Sprinkler to Storage Clearance
OSHA regulations emphasize the importance of maintaining clear pathways and ensuring that stored materials do not obstruct fire suppression systems or emergency equipment. Adhering to these standards helps prevent accidents, promotes accessibility, and supports workplace safety compliance.
- Hazards: Cluttered pathways or blocked exits can increase the risk of accidents. Storing pallets too high or too close (less than 18 inches) to fire sprinklers increases the risk of falling items and hinders fire suppression.
- Related Standards:
- OSHA 29 CFR 1910.176(a) requires clear pathways for material handling and prohibits blocking exits or emergency equipment.
- OSHA 29 CFR 1910.159(c)(10) states that there must be a minimum vertical clearance of 18 inches (45.7 cm) between sprinkler heads and the material below to ensure proper sprinkler function.
- The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Section 8.5.6.1 requires that sprinklers have at least 18 inches clearance between the deflector and the top of storage. NFPA 13 Section 8.5.6.3, requires at least 36 inches clearance for other special sprinkler systems.
- Examples:
- In a warehouse, products on pallets are stacked within 18 inches of a fire suppression system.
- A blocked fire exit due to improperly stored pallets results in a citation after a routine safety audit.
Real-life Scenario
Pallets Stacked Too High Causes Serious Injury
A busy warehouse with very high storage racks was handling an influx of shipments. In an effort to maximize space, workers stacked pallets loaded with products close to the ceiling. These pallets were placed less than 18 inches from the fire sprinklers, violating OSHA's safety requirements.
One afternoon, a worker used a forklift to retrieve a pallet from the top rack. Due to the improper stacking, the pallet shifted unexpectedly, causing the pallet and several boxes to fall. One of the boxes struck a worker on the floor, leading to serious injuries. Meanwhile, the displaced pallet obstructed the aisle, blocking an emergency exit.
Key Issues Identified:
- Pallets were stored too high and too close to fire suppression systems, increasing the risk of falling items.
- Aisles and emergency exits were blocked, violating OSHA regulations.
- Improper storage reduced fire safety effectiveness, potentially hindering emergency response.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
1-4. What is a hazardous work practice that could result in increased risk of adequate fire suppression?
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