BCAB #1381 - Seismic Design of Storage Racking, Sentences 4.1.1.3.(1), 4.1.2.2.(1) and 4.1.9.1.(15)

February 16, 1995

BCAB #1381

Re: Seismic Design of Storage Racking, Sentences 4.1.1.3.(1), 4.1.2.2.(1) and 4.1.9.1.(15)

Project Description

This appeal concerns the structural design of storage racking systems used in warehouse and retail occupancies. The storage racking systems in question are assembled from factory made components into multi-level shelves and platforms which are supported from the building's floor slab independent of the building's superstructure. Access to the items on the shelves is by way of ladders or movable lifts, not stairs and walkways.

Reason for Appeal

Part 4 requires buildings to be designed to resist seismic loads due to earthquakes. Subsection 4.1.9. provides the method for analysis of earthquake motion due to specified loads.

Appellant's Position

The appellant contends that storage racking systems which are self-supporting and independent of the building's superstructure are not required to be designed to resist seismic loads.

Building Official's Position

The building official maintains that either the storage racking system must be designed to resist seismic loads or the building must be designed to resist seismic loads imparted by the storage racking system.

Appeal Board Decision #1381

The Board feels this appeal should be withdrawn and direction given to the Building Standards Branch to resolve this issue through a Code revision.

George R. Humphrey, Chair