We have some pallet racking that after a incident involving a pallet falling we have decided to install decking to all parts of the warehouse rather than high risk areas and I have sourced a supplier who is SEMA approved for installations but now my director is concerned that the racking will not be fit for purpose as he wants evidence that decking meets BS specification.

Is there any requirments for decking to meet a certain standard and what evidence would I require for this?

Brian is correct, there is nothing I have found in the past relating to any BS for timber decks which we use in all of our racking systems. Said decks are not essential or part of the load bearing structure that is the racking system hence (in my opinion) why there is no standard. We've recently had our annual SEMA inspection and the decking is covered in the report which states:

"Open boarded timber slatted decks are fitted to beam levels to support any poor-quality pallets. I have not listed these in the damaged racking section as these are not essential. However, the decking should be replaced in house when damaged."

My view is that correct use of any timber decking gives another layer of protection in case of poor pallets or operator error when loading / unloading. The only downside is that means more components to check when you do your visual inspection, however frequently you do that yourselves.

If you procure from a reputable and accredited supplier, they could probably give you more information or reassurance regarding any decking you're considering.

Paul