Need a Annual Racking Inspection by our SEMA Approved Racking Inspectors? Trust A-Z Rack Inspections Ltd - Call 07917 664940 or 07947 886161 today!!

Are You HSE Compliant? Racking Inspection Requirements Explained

When it comes to warehouse operations, health and safety compliance is not optional—it’s the law. Yet, one area that’s frequently overlooked is the inspection of pallet racking systems. These vital storage structures bear the daily weight of your stock, machinery activity, and operational pressure. But are they being checked regularly? More importantly, are you HSE compliant?

In this post, we’ll explain the legal racking inspection requirements under HSE (Health and Safety Executive) guidance, how they align with PUWER 1998, and why working with a SEMA Approved Racking Inspector (SARI) is essential for safety and compliance.

Why Racking Inspections Matter

Racking systems are considered work equipment under the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER). That means employers have a legal obligation to ensure all racking is maintained in a safe condition and inspected regularly.

Failing to do so can result in:

• Serious workplace accidents or injuries

• Legal action or fines from the HSE

• Increased insurance costs

• Operational downtime

• Damage to stock and company reputation

What Does the HSE Say?

According to HSE’s Warehousing and Storage Guide (HSG76), businesses must implement a robust racking inspection regime that includes:

🔹 Immediate Reporting

All visible damage or safety concerns should be reported as soon as they are noticed—by any member of staff.

🔹 Regular In-House Inspections

These should be carried out weekly or monthly by trained warehouse employees. Staff should be trained to identify visible signs of damage like:

• Bent beams

• Upright damage

• Dislodged safety beam locks

• Overloaded racks

🔹 Expert Annual Inspections

HSE strongly recommends a “technically competent person” performs a full racking inspection at least once every 12 months.

This is where a SEMA Approved Racking Inspector (SARI) comes in.

Why Use a SEMA Approved Racking Inspector?

The Storage Equipment Manufacturers’ Association (SEMA) is the UK’s leading authority on racking safety and best practice. A SEMA Approved Racking Inspector (SARI) undergoes intensive training and qualification assessments to ensure they meet the highest industry standards.

Benefits of using a SARI include:

• Independent and unbiased inspections

• Comprehensive reports and actionable advice

• Compliance with HSE, PUWER and SEMA codes of practice

• Peace of mind that your racking is safe and legally maintained

👉 Bonus: Using a SARI also demonstrates due diligence, which can protect your business in the event of an incident or HSE investigation.

The Legal Framework: PUWER 1998

Under PUWER regulations, employers must:

“Ensure that work equipment is maintained in an efficient state, in efficient working order and in good repair.”

PUWER Regulation 5, HSE

This applies directly to warehouse racking systems. Ignoring this legal requirement could result in enforcement notices, fines, or worse—serious injuries in the workplace.

Are You Compliant?

To check if your warehouse is compliant, ask yourself:

✅ Are your racking systems inspected at least annually by a qualified person?
✅ Do your staff conduct weekly internal visual checks?
✅ Are staff trained to spot and report racking damage?
✅ Do you have documentation and reports to prove inspections have taken place?
✅ Have you implemented repairs or maintenance following inspection recommendations?

If you’ve answered “no” to any of the above, you may not be fully HSE compliant.

How A-Z Rack Inspections Ltd Can Help

At A-Z Rack Inspections Ltd, we provide comprehensive annual racking inspections across the UK. Our SEMA Approved Racking Inspectors deliver:

• Detailed, jargon-free reports

• Hazard identification & risk assessments

• Ongoing support and expert guidance

• Staff training on in-house visual inspections (available on request)

We inspect all major racking systems, including:

• Pallet Racking

• Cantilever Racking

• Drive-In Racking

• Mezzanine Structures

Final Thoughts

HSE compliance isn’t optional—it’s a legal duty. Don’t let a missed inspection put your people, your products, or your reputation at risk. Stay compliant, stay safe, and protect your warehouse from unnecessary costs and liabilities.

Ready to book your annual racking inspection?

Contact us today:

📞 Call us: 07947 886161 or 07917 664940
📧 Email: sales@a-zrackinspections.co.uk

A-Z Rack Inspections Ltd – We don’t just inspect. We protect.

Request a Racking Inspection Quote

Get a Quote

With over 25 years of experience, our SEMA Approved Racking Inspectors offer nationwide racking inspection and training.

Rack Inspection Blog