Issue link: http://palletcentral.uberflip.com/i/1009631
14 PalletCentral • July-August 2018 palletcentral.com Gething: The crate industry variability is much greater, and could create some complications. Because there are so many different types of crates, it would be difficult to understand where one code should apply and where one should not. From that perspective, it certainly presents a challenge. What is the maximum height of storage for recycled pallets? Gething: It doesn't matter if it is a new pallet or a recycled pallet. The code is the same; it will remain 20 feet. Koffel: There is a 20-foot height maximum, but if it is 20 feet high, there are additional separation requirements. There will need to be a space 0.75 multiplied by the height of the stack in open space between the stacks. Therefore, you need to figure out what works best for your site. Twenty feet deals with operation considerations. If you have limited area on site, the 20-foot might not work when it requires you to be further from the property line. Are the majority of manufacturers members of NWPCA? Gething: No. NWPCA membership consists of both U.S. domestic and international wood pallet manufacturers and recyclers, and companies that service the industry or who manufacture equipment for the industry. There are roughly 400 U.S.-based manufacturing and recycling members of NWPCA. According to NAICS (North American Industry Classification System) codes, we know there are closer to two thousand pallet manufacturing and recycling facilities in the United States. Therefore, it is crucial in our outreach efforts to educate those nonmembers, many of which don't have email addresses. There are a few publications in the realm in the pallet industry that we partner with to reach that group. A lot of our members also know facilities in close proximity that they can reach and inform on code compliance, and/or share that contact information with NWPCA. Through many channels, staff is working hard to spread the word on fire code compliance. Koffel: We also had inquiries from international members, who are not regulated by either of these codes, as a risk management best practice. How does this code relate to my insurance? Gething: It doesn't, however there are components to this code that overlap with insurance. A Hot Work Program is one example, and a lot of insurance programs require this. Your insurance is a private company and it is a private agreement between you and the provider. These codes are publicly enforced regulations. Koffel: While there is not a direct connection, industry insurance representatives in NWPCA have been closely following our activity. If you read your insurance policy carefully, it probably SAFETY A valuable resource developed by NWPCA and Koffel Associates is available from PalletCentral.com/ComplianceManual. The resource is free to members and non-members, fire code officials, safety managers, office managers and more. The manual contains guidance on site plans, fire prevention plans, emergency response plans, and emergency plans, along with many checklists and housekeeping templates to download and adapt for your specific facility. This is a great tool to share with your local fire officials too. Take a proactive approach and work with your fire official to gain compliance quickly and effectively. Download NWPCA Fire Code Compliance Manual – It's Free! Being proactive and establishing a positive relationship with your local/state fire marshal will, in most cases, result in a cooperative exchange of ideas and information. Most fire marshals want to work with those that show a desire to operate their business in a fire safe manner.