Help Prevent Pallet Fires with Proper Storage

Are there pallets scattered and stacked up against a wall in your facility, forgotten about? Pallets are essential for transporting goods, but when they begin to pile up, they pose a significant hazard. To stay safe and maintain a smooth workflow, facilities need efficient storage solutions for pallets.

You might not have considered that pallets can catch fire, but just take a look at the devastation caused by a recent four-alarm fire at a pallet company. Additionally, carriers consider storage efficiency when assessing facilities for coverage.

The key to safe pallet storage is to identify where you will store them (indoors or outdoors) and what type of pallets your facility will mainly receive (wooden or plastic).

Indoor palette storage

Unless pallets are properly stored, they are considered a significant fire hazard, especially those not being used and sitting stagnant in a specific location.

Despite this, the National Fire Protection Association states it is not essential for a facility to have an automatic sprinkler system if indoor wood pallet quantities are limited and the following criteria are met:

• Pallets are made of wood and not plastic
• Stacks are no higher than 6 feet
• Pile groups do not exceed four stacks
• Piles are separated from other pallet piles by at least 8 feet of clear space or 25 feet of commodity

Storing pallets without meeting the above conditions will require a properly designed sprinkler system. We suggest reaching out to a qualified fire sprinkler contractor to determine the right system design for your facility.

Outdoor pallet storage

Keeping pallets outside could be an ideal solution when the conditions listed for proper indoor storage cannot be met.

When choosing an outside storage area for pallets, consider factors such as the proximity to your facility, weather protection and accessibility. The location should be well-maintained, properly fenced and protected from unauthorized access.

Pallet stacks should:

• Not exceed 15 feet in height or cover an area greater than 400 square feet
• Have a minimum distance of 8 feet between separate stacks of wood pallets
• Stacks should be no closer than 8 feet to any property line

By selecting a suitable outdoor storage space, you can effectively manage your inventory and optimize your storage capabilities.

Storing wooden and plastic pallets

Wooden and plastic pallets each have their unique storage requirements.

For wooden pallets, their combustibility dictates a careful approach to storage. Along with following height and spacing regulations, it is crucial to keep wooden pallets in a cool, dry area. Avoid storing them near flammable substances or heat sources, and make sure that fire extinguishing equipment is easily accessible. When storing wooden pallets outside, it is recommended you keep them off the ground to prevent moisture damage and potential wood rot.

While plastic pallets are less combustible than their wooden counterparts, they still need to be stored correctly to minimize fire risk. Ensure that the facility has a reliable sprinkler system in place and keep the plastic pallets away from heat sources.

For both types of pallets, a clear evacuation route should always be maintained in the storage area. This will ensure a quick and safe exit in case of an emergency.

All pallet storage should be monitored and inspected on a regular basis. This will ensure the safety of your facility, staff and inventory. By following these simple tips, you can keep your business running smoothly and avoid costly mishaps due to faulty storage practices.