RMI material handling refers to the use of industrial steel storage racks and related structural systems that meet the safety and design standards set by the Rack Manufacturers Institute (RMI). The RMI is a trade association that develops and publishes national standards for industrial racks and administers the R-Mark Certification Program for manufacturers who comply with these standards, ensuring quality and safety in the material handling industry.  

 

What the RMI does:

• Sets Standards:

The RMI publishes the ANSI-approved Specification for the Design, Testing & Utilization of Industrial Steel Storage Racks, which serves as the recognized national standard for these systems. 

• Promotes Safety:

The organization's mission is to promote the safe and effective use of industrial steel storage racks. 

• Awards R-Mark Certification:

RMI certifies manufacturers and their rack systems through the R-Mark Certification Program to ensure they meet the national standards for quality and durability. 

• Provides Guidance:

RMI publishes guidelines and considerations for the planning and use of industrial steel storage racks to help users create the safest and most effective storage systems. 

• Represents the Industry:

The RMI is a key industry group within the larger Material Handling Industry (MHI) association, representing the leading suppliers of industrial racking. 

 

We’re listed in the RMI Member Directory, reflecting our commitment to safety, quality, and innovation in the rack industry. 

 

Installation Guidelines:

RMI (Rack Manufacturers Institute) guidelines are critical for the safe installation of industrial storage racks and are detailed in their ANSI-approved standards, such as ANSI MH16.1. Installation involves adhering strictly to manufacturer-provided Load Application and Rack Configuration (LARC) drawings, ensuring the rack is plumb, square, and properly anchored with tight hardware. Key elements include using appropriate materials for components like shims and base plates, verifying that beam locking devices are engaged, and securing all necessary safety components like personal fall protection when working at height. A post-installation inspection by a qualified engineer is essential to confirm compliance with the LARC drawings before the system is loaded. 

 

Before Installation

1. Consult Standards:

Familiarize yourself with the relevant ANSI-approved RMI standards, primarily ANSI MH16.1 for design, testing, and utilization of industrial steel storage racks. 

2. Review LARC Drawings:

Obtain and thoroughly understand the Load Application and Rack Configuration (LARC) drawings provided by the rack engineer. These detail the exact configuration, components, and load capacities. 

3. Site Conditions:

Check that the installation site meets prerequisites, such as having adequate structural integrity, being free of major structural failures, and having properly functioning plumbing and electrical systems, according to RMI. 

4. Materials:

Ensure you are using high-quality, specified materials for all components, including columns, beams, and base plates, as noted by OneRack. 

 

During Installation

1. Anchoring:

Secure all columns to the floor using the anchors specified on the LARC drawings. Ensure the anchor depth and diameter match requirements. 

2. Shimming:

Install shims that match or exceed the base plate size, using steel or other appropriate materials with higher compressive strength than the concrete slab. 

3. Plumb and Square:

Verify that the entire rack structure is plumb (vertically aligned) and square (perpendicular) in all directions. 

4. Component Assembly:

Ensure all components are properly seated and that all hardware is tight. 

5. Beam Locks:

Confirm that all beam locking devices are fully engaged to prevent accidental dislodgement. 

6. Safety Equipment:

When working at elevations of 6 feet or higher, all personnel must use appropriate personal fall protection, such as body harnesses and double-lanyards, as per OSHA requirements. 

 

After Installation

1. Post-Installation Inspection:

A qualified rack engineer must perform an installation inspection to confirm the installation matches the LARC drawings. 

2. Load Plaques:

Hang load application plaques on the rack to document that the installation is complete and conforms to the LARC drawings. 

3. Damage Tagging:

Tag any structural damage immediately and, if the damage poses a safety concern, unload the affected area under the direction of a rack engineer until repairs are made. 

4. Ongoing Maintenance:

Owners are responsible for ongoing inspections to check for overloading, structural damage, and to ensure proper loading techniques are followed.