In light of recent events, the importance of regulatory compliance and structural integrity in warehouse installations has once again taken center stage.
On January 28, 2025, a mezzanine floor at a warehouse unit in 11 Toa Payoh Industrial Park collapsed, trapping three individuals under heavy rugs and racks. The Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) later confirmed that the mezzanine was constructed without the required fire safety certificate or approval. Similarly, the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) had not received any plans or applications for the steel platform and racking system involved.
(From Straits Times – No approval sought to install mezzanine floor in Toa Payoh warehouse that collapsed: Authorities | The Straits Times)
As a professional warehouse racking inspection consultancy, this tragic incident reinforces what we’ve long emphasized – unauthorized or non-compliant structural installations pose a serious threat to safety and business continuity.
Understanding The Regulatory Landscape
Question:
Do I Need Approval for My Warehouse Racking or Mezzanine?
Answer:
Yes. According to Singapore’s Fire Safety Act and Building Control Act, the following require official approval:
- Mezzanine floors
- Steel racking systems
- Load-bearing platforms
- Wall-attached or elevated storage systems
Approvals must go through a Qualified Professional (QP) and may involve BCA, SCDF, or both.
Question:
What Happens if I Skip Approval?
Answer:
- Legal fines of up to $200,000
- Imprisonment (up to 2 years)
- Business insurance voidance
- Risk of collapse and injury
- SCDF stop-work orders
Common Warehouse Compliance Issues We Encounter
- No SCDF Fire Safety Submission
Many warehouse operators overlook the requirement for SCDF approval. Any additional structure, including mezzanines, must be assessed for fire safety hazards, smoke movement, and emergency access. - No BCA Structural Plan Approval
Even boltless racking systems must be certified by a structural engineer if they exceed height/load thresholds. Without a submitted structural plan, you’re operating at serious risk. - Overloading and Unsafe Modifications
Systems designed for light goods are often repurposed for heavy industrial use, which leads to racking deformation, misalignment, or complete structural failure.
How Our Experts Keep You Safe and Legal
At WRIC (Warehouse Safety Inspection Consultancy), we take a proactive, education-first approach to warehouse compliance and safety. Our services include:
- Pre-installation Risk Assessment
We help you identify whether your intended installation requires SCDF or BCA approvals — and what risks you might be unknowingly introducing. - Documentation & Submission Support
We assist your team with full technical documentation, liaising with QPs, structural engineers, and authorities for smooth approvals. - Fire Safety Certification Coordination
We work with Registered Inspectors (RIs) to obtain SCDF’s Fire Safety Certificate after inspection and compliance review. - Annual Racking Safety Inspections
We conduct routine checks to detect:- Rust and corrosion
- Misalignment and impact damage
- Overloading or missing safety pins
- Improper anchoring or unsecured loads
