Racking Inspection Frequency: How Often Should Your Racking Be Inspected?

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Racking Inspection Frequency: How Often Should Your Racking Be Inspected?

Why Regular Racking Inspections Matter

Warehouse racking systems are vital for efficient storage and logistics operations, but they can pose serious safety risks if not properly maintained. A damaged or overloaded racking system can collapse without warning, leading to injuries, damaged inventory, operational downtime, and legal consequences.

To prevent such incidents, HSG76 Section 646 states that a racking inspection is recommended to be carried out at least once a year by a SEMA Approved Racking Inspector (SARI). Additionally, regular internal inspections should be conducted by a Person Responsible for Rack Safety (PRRS) to monitor and manage ongoing racking safety.

At A-Z Rack Inspections Ltd, we help businesses across the UK comply with these recommendations and maintain safe and efficient racking systems. This guide will explain:

✅ The legal framework surrounding racking inspections
✅ The role of SARIs and PRRS in maintaining racking safety
✅ Factors that influence inspection frequency
✅ Why prevention is the best protection

Legal Requirements: What Do HSE, PUWER & SEMA Say About Racking Inspections?

1. HSE’s HSG76 Guidelines:

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) provides clear guidance on racking safety in its official document HSG76 (Warehousing and Storage: A Guide to Health and Safety). Section 646 of this guide mandates that:
🔹 A thorough racking inspection is recommended to be conducted annually by a qualified SEMA Approved Racking Inspector (SARI).
🔹 Regular internal checks should be carried out by a trained Person Responsible for Rack Safety (PRRS).
🔹 Any damage must be promptly assessed and addressed to prevent deterioration and accidents.

2. PUWER (Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998):

Under PUWER, employers are legally responsible for maintaining all "work equipment," including pallet racking, cantilever racking, and shelving. This means that:
✔ Racking must be inspected at suitable intervals to prevent failure.
✔ Employers must take corrective action when damage is identified.
✔ Failure to comply could result in legal action or fines.

3. SEMA (Storage Equipment Manufacturers’ Association) Guidelines:

SEMA is the UK’s leading authority on racking safety. They recommend:
🔹 Annual inspections by a certified SARI to ensure compliance.
🔹 Regular in-house inspections by PRRS personnel to catch early signs of damage.
🔹 Training for warehouse staff to improve awareness of racking safety.

By following these legal guidelines, businesses reduce risk, maintain compliance, and protect employees from avoidable accidents.

Who is Responsible for Racking Inspections?

1. SEMA Approved Racking Inspectors (SARI):

A SEMA Approved Racking Inspector (SARI) is a fully qualified expert trained to conduct comprehensive inspections. They assess structural integrity, compliance, and risk levels, providing detailed reports with actionable recommendations.

At A-Z Rack Inspections Ltd, our SARIs undergo extensive training and continuous professional development, ensuring up-to-date knowledge of legislation and industry best practices.

2. Person Responsible for Rack Safety (PRRS):

A PRRS is appointed by the business to conduct frequent internal inspections and monitor racking conditions. Their responsibilities include:
✔ Conducting visual weekly or monthly inspections.
✔ Logging and reporting any damage found.
✔ Ensuring correct loading procedures are followed.
✔ Arranging for SARI annual inspections.

To enhance their expertise, PRRS personnel should undergo racking inspection training led by a SEMA Approved Racking Inspector.

How Often Should Racking Be Inspected?

While HSE recommends an annual racking inspection, some warehouses require more frequent checks depending on risk factors such as:

1. Type & Size of Racking System:

📌 Larger racking systems with higher loads and more traffic may require quarterly professional inspections.

2. Damage Levels & Impact History:

📌 Racking in areas prone to forklift collisions may need monthly damage assessments.

3. Warehouse Throughput & Forklift Activity:

📌 The higher the warehouse activity, the greater the wear and tear. Fast-moving operations should increase inspection frequency.

4. Environmental Conditions:

📌 Cold storage facilities (e.g., chilled/freezer warehouses) experience metal contraction and expansion, which can accelerate racking fatigue and failure.

5. Type & Condition of Mechanical Handling Equipment (MHE):

📌 Older or poorly maintained forklifts, scissor lifts, and pallet trucks increase the likelihood of racking damage.

6. Operator Training & Competence:

📌 Warehouses with new or inexperienced forklift operators should implement weekly internal inspections to compensate for a higher risk of accidental impacts.

📌 Facilities with well-trained operators may require less frequent checks.

7. Floor Conditions:

📌 Uneven or cracked floors can cause misalignment and instability, increasing stress on racking structures.

What Happens if a Racking Issue is Found?

If damage is detected during an inspection, it must be:
🔴 Assessed & classified using the SEMA RAG System (Red, Amber, Green).
🟠 Reported to warehouse management immediately.
🟢 Rectified as per SEMA’s repair guidelines.

🚨 Ignoring racking damage is a serious safety risk—it could result in rack collapse, injury, legal action, and operational downtime.

Why Choose A-Z Rack Inspections Ltd?

At A-Z Rack Inspections Ltd, we provide:

✔ Racking Inspections by SEMA Approved Racking Inspectors for full compliance.
✔ Tailored racking safety training for PRRS and warehouse teams.
✔ Detailed inspection reports with actionable recommendations.
✔ Expert advice on setting the right inspection frequency for your facility.

Don’t wait for an accident to happen. Protect your business, employees, and assets today. Contact us to schedule your professional racking inspection and training session.

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

Stay safe, stay compliant, and keep your warehouse running smoothly!

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

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