Our customer stores pieces of metal u-channel strut and all thread rod that are stacked on steel cantilever racks. There are no pallets. Packaging is by wrapping of steel bands. Everything is non-combustible.
Since the commodity is non-combustible, Table 435.5.1 for high piled racking does not apply, correct? It seems to apply only to combustible commodities. Therefore the 12-foot high limitation triggering high-pile storage requirements would not apply, right? We hope to avoid the requirements of Table 435.5.1 since the building does not meet the fire department access door requirements even though it does meet the requirements for automatic sprinklers as well as smoke and heat removal. I can't find a code section to cite to AHJ for what is not required on non-combustible commodities. Like proving a negative. Any suggestions would be appreciated! Sent in anonymously for discussion. Click Title to View | Submit Your Question | Subscribe
8 Comments
Pete H
8/15/2023 06:42:04 am
Do you know if you're able to make an argument that the building occupancy is group S-2?
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Chris
8/15/2023 08:43:07 am
I have had a similar situation and I considered that a Class I Commodity.
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Jesse
8/15/2023 10:09:57 am
An insurer I used to work with called this a Class 0 Commodity, which is not referenced in 13 anywhere.
Reply
Glenn Berger
8/15/2023 10:11:20 am
It appears that you need to review all the factors that govern storage arrangements. Commodities and arrangement are factors that feed into the decision making process. Good Luck!
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Conrad
8/15/2023 01:02:08 pm
From my perspective as an AHJ, any storage arraignment over 12 feet will be considered high-piled regardless of commodities stored. It is important to remember that while a sprinkler system can cause water damage to contents and structure, a fire will cause more damage especially when not controlled and mitigated by a fire sprinkler system.
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Conrad
8/24/2023 04:17:47 pm
Another issue I have with not installing a sprinkler system in a Storage occupancy that has the space for high-piled storage is future use. Tenant/Owner may only use this storage for "non combustible" commodities, but what is stopping the next Tenant/Owner from storing whatever they want?
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Adam
8/31/2023 11:20:11 am
I agree with your answers and remind people that the forklifts will be operating in those similar areas. Future use is a concern for the current occupant and future occupants.
Reply
Roger Fast
8/16/2023 03:31:59 pm
There's a reason it's called "High-Piled Combustible Storage" note the word "Combustible". Chapter 32 IFC.
Reply
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