Table of Contents
How to use this checklist
Use this guide to build clear, compliant, and buildable mezzanine floor specifications that keep projects moving. It’s written for operations leaders, warehouse and project managers, builders, and procurement teams who need fast, accurate quotes and safe, efficient installs. Work through each section, confirm scope and numbers, and cut approval time. The result: predictable pricing, safer outcomes, and layouts that scale with demand.
Mezzanine specification checklist
Here’s a one-sitting overview to brief suppliers and engineers with confidence. Lock in these items early to reduce RFIs, prevent rework, and speed fabrication.
- Intended use: storage, process, office, or mixed use; expected traffic and equipment.
- Design loads (AS/NZS 1170): UDL (kPa), point loads, racking leg loads, dynamic or impact loads.
- Deflection limits and comfort criteria.
- Column grid and clear headroom above/below; forklift mast and sprinkler clearance.
- Existing slab data; anchors to AS 5216 with edge distances and pull-out values.
- Building classification (NCC), egress strategy, accessibility triggers.
- FRL requirements and separations; penetrations fire-stopped.
- Stairs, ladders, platforms, and pallet gates to AS 1657; exit widths and travel distances (NCC).
- Decking type and slip resistance (AS 4586); coatings and corrosion category.
- Sprinkler strategy (AS 2118), detection (AS 1670), emergency lighting and exit signage (AS 2293).
- Services: lighting levels (AS/NZS 1680), power (AS/NZS 3000), data/OT, HVAC and airflow.
- Materials handling: clear openings, hoists, conveyors, pallet sizes, interlocks.
- Installation program, cranage, deliveries, site constraints, and handover documentation.
Compliance and approvals in Australia
A tight approvals path keeps fabrication on schedule. Align the mezzanine scope with the NCC, state-based variations, and engineering certification. Early engagement with the building certifier and fire services contractor closes gaps before ordering steel. Document the intended use and building class, then map egress, fire, and services impacts. Close out product conformity and installer credentials before site work begins.
Building classification and intended use (NCC)
Nominate building class and intended use: storage (warehouse), process area, office, or public access. Use drives egress widths, travel distances, fire protection, and accessibility triggers. Mixed-use decks may need separations or higher performance criteria.
Approvals pathway and certifier engagement
Confirm planning triggers, building permit or certification pathway, and required inspections. Secure sign-off from a Chartered Professional Engineer (RPEQ or equivalent) for design and connections. Engage the certifier early to align on fire and egress design.
Required documentation
Provide certified drawings, structural calculations, anchor design to AS 5216, product conformance data, installation SWMS, and O&M manuals. Keep as-built drawings and fastener schedules ready for final certification.
Structural performance and loading
Good structural data drives accurate pricing and safer operation. State clear load cases, headroom, and slab capacity. Match deflection limits with comfort expectations and equipment performance. Set a column grid that respects aisles, conveyors, and fork paths while keeping steel tonnage efficient.
Design loads to AS/NZS 1170 (UDL, point, dynamic)
Nominate uniform distributed load (UDL) in kPa by use. Common ranges: 3.0 kPa for office, 5.0–10.0 kPa for storage, higher for dense racking or equipment. Add point loads such as pallet jack wheel loads, racking post loads, and machinery feet. Call out dynamic loads for conveyors or vibrating equipment, and any impact load at edges or loading zones.
Deflection criteria and serviceability
Set limits by span and use (e.g., L/250 or tighter where sensitive equipment sits). Tighter limits improve user comfort and reduce vibration on conveyors or scanners. Confirm decking compatibility with the chosen criteria.
Column grid and headroom
Propose a grid that clears aisles and dock approaches, with target clear heights under the deck for forklifts and sprinklers. State clearances above the deck for racking, lighting, and handrails. Note any conveyor penetrations or chute alignments.
Existing slab capacity and anchorage (AS 5216)
Provide slab thickness, concrete grade, reinforcement, and joint layout. Where unknown, specify testing or scanning. Nominate anchor type (mechanical or chemical), edge distances, embedment, and design pull-out/shear values to AS 5216.
Materials and system design
Specify structural steel to AS 4100 with compatible connections and fatigue checks where needed. Match decking to load, acoustics, slip resistance, and maintenance expectations. Select coatings for the site environment, not just colour.
Primary framing and decking options
State beam and joist types and steel grade. List decking options: steel plate or grating for hard-wearing industrial use; composite deck for stiffness and service runs; structural ply with wearing layer for quieter footfall. Note load rating, vibration behaviour, acoustics, and penetrations for services.
Surface finish and slip resistance (AS 4586)
Nominate slip ratings by zone: dry office areas (R9–R10), general industrial (R10–R11), wet or oily zones may require higher ratings. Consider anti-static flooring for electronics, or chemical-resistant finishes near process areas.
Corrosion protection and coatings
State environment category to AS 4312 (e.g., C2–C5) and select coating systems to AS/NZS 2312.1. Compare powder coat for internal dry areas with hot-dip galvanising near moisture or coastal exposure. Include touch-up system for site cuts.
Modularity and expansion
Set standard bay sizes, splice/joint details, and connection allowances for future bays. Call out relocatability needs for leased sites.
Access, egress, and edge protection
Safe access and egress protect people and product. Specify stairs, platforms, gates, and handrails to suit traffic and pallet flow. Map exit paths that meet the NCC, with no dead ends and clear widths..
Stairs, ladders, and platforms (AS 1657)
Nominate stair angle (30–38 degrees), tread and riser dimensions, and landing lengths. Set minimum clear width tied to expected traffic and egress requirements. Add mid-landings where height exceeds code thresholds. Fixed ladd
