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Warehouse Racking Inspections: What You Need to Know to Stay Safe and Compliant

Why Racking Inspections Matter in Every Warehouse

Your racking system isn’t just a storage solution; it’s a critical part of your warehouse infrastructure. Yet it’s often overlooked until something goes wrong.

Racking holds heavy loads above staff and equipment. If it’s damaged or poorly maintained, the consequences can be serious:

• Racking collapse

• Worker injuries or fatalities

• Expensive stock loss

• HSE enforcement or legal action

Regular warehouse racking inspections aren’t a nice-to-have—they’re a vital part of your health and safety responsibilities.

What Is a Warehouse Racking Inspection?

A racking inspection is a thorough check of your pallet or cantilever racking to assess its safety and structural integrity. It ensures:

• The system is safe for continued use

• All components comply with legal safety standards (HSG76 and PUWER)

• Any hidden damage or deterioration is identified early

Inspections typically cover:

• Uprights and beams

• Frame bracing

• Beam locks and safety pins

• Load notices and signage

• Floor fixings and baseplates

A-Z Rack Inspections Ltd carries out inspections using qualified SEMA Approved Racking Inspectors (SARI) who are trained to the highest UK standards.

What Does the Law Say About Racking Inspections?

In the UK, racking is classed as work equipment under:

• The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974

• The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER)

These regulations require employers to ensure that:

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

The HSE’s official guidance (HSG76: Warehousing and Storage) recommends that warehouse operators implement a three-tier inspection regime:

• Frequent visual checks by staff

• Weekly or monthly internal inspections

• Annual inspections by a SEMA Approved Racking Inspector

Failure to comply can result in enforcement action, invalidated insurance, and potential liability in the event of an accident.

How Often Should Racking Be Inspected?

A well-structured inspection routine is key to staying safe and compliant. SEMA and the HSE recommend a tiered approach to racking inspection frequency:

Daily

• Type: Visual spot checks

• By: Trained warehouse staff

• Purpose: Spot immediate hazards like knocks, dents or missing safety pins

Weekly

• Type: Internal inspection

• By: H&S officer or line manager

• Purpose: Track minor damage and ensure repairs are actioned

Monthly

• Type: Follow-up and damage review

• By: Operations or safety manager

• Purpose: Confirm issues have been addressed and recorded

Annually

• Type: Expert Racking inspection

• By: SEMA Approved Racking Inspector

• Purpose: Ensure full compliance with PUWER and HSG76, and confirm the structural safety of the entire racking system

Additionally, inspections should be carried out after any impact, modification or relocation of racking.

What Happens After the Inspection?

Following a professional racking inspection, you will receive a detailed written report. This typically includes:

• A risk assessment using the SEMA traffic light system (Red, Amber, Green)

• Photographs and descriptions of any damage

• Repair recommendations

• Evidence of compliance with UK regulations

Keeping this documentation is crucial for showing due diligence to insurers and the HSE.

Why Professional Racking Inspections Make Financial Sense

Investing in routine inspections helps you:

• Identify and fix damage before it causes failure

• Comply with legal and insurance requirements

• Minimise risk of stock damage and operational downtime

• Avoid expensive liability or injury claims

• Maintain a safer, more efficient working environment

At A-Z Rack Inspections Ltd, our SEMA Approved experts deliver clear, professional reports and actionable advice—so you can focus on running your warehouse with confidence.

Is Your Warehouse Due for Inspection?

If you haven’t had a formal racking inspection in the past 12 months, or your internal inspection records are incomplete, now is the time to act.

Waiting until something goes wrong is never worth the risk.

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.

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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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