What is a Warehouse Racking Inspection?
A Warehouse Racking Inspection is a visual safety check of storage racking and pallet racking within a warehouse.
A rack inspection ensures racking complies with the ‘Provision and Use of Workplace Equipment Regulations’ (PUWER) and ‘The Health & Safety at Work Act 1974’ and must be carried out every 12 months by a technically competent person.
Racking Inspections are usually carried out by a SEMA (Storage Equipment Manufacturers’ Association) trained inspector, known as a SARI, who is considered a ‘competent person’ to inspect storage racking as recognised by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). Here at Prodek, we always ensure to utilise the services of a SEMA-approved rack inspector, and we strictly adhere to SEMA guidelines and their codes of practice.
Racking inspection safety standards are classified using a simple traffic light rating system to classify the risk of damage to warehouse racking. Racking which receives an amber or red risk classification must be replaced; equipment identified as a red risk must be unloaded immediately.
Equipment identified as an amber risk should be unloaded as soon as possible. If amber risk racking is not unloaded within four weeks of the inspection, it must immediately be classified as a red risk – all racking identified as a red risk must be replaced before it is reloaded with goods or pallets.
A green risk rating does not mean there is no damage; a green rating means the racking safety is within tolerances approved by an external SEMA-certified inspector, but still must be monitored, and any further racking damage must be reported.
Any racking beams with dents or buckles will need to be replaced because it is not possible to guarantee the beam is structurally sound to carry the load it was designed for. Non-critical risks will also be documented for future reference.
The Warehouse Racking Inspection Process
Warehouse racking safety standards include pallet racking and cantilever racking, with racking classed as work equipment under PUWER. Rack safety standards work to ensure the provision and use of safe work equipment. Storage racking is an integral piece of equipment within most warehouses and can suffer considerable wear and tear over the course of a year. A rack safety inspection will provide a thorough examination of racking equipment to find any damage, often caused by lifting equipment such as Forklift Trucks.
At Prodek, we utilise sub-contracted SARI racking inspectors. During the process, the SARI inspectors will begin at ground level, working systematically along each aisle of racking, checking for any damage or missing racking components. We also document any potential issues, such as incorrect use of storage equipment, which may need addressing in the future.
The sub-contracted SARI officials utilise a traffic light system to classify damaged racking:
RED: Very serious damage which requires immediate action with replacement racking. Goods or pallets must not be put back into use until the damaged material has been replaced.
AMBER: Serious damage which exceeds the SEMA advised tolerances. Once goods or pallets are unloaded, amber-rated racking must be replaced with new racking.
GREEN: Racking is damaged and within SEMA guidelines, though it must be monitored – this is usually carried out via an in-house inspection. Any future damage must be reported, and racking must be re-inspected for damage in line with guidelines.
Book Your Warehouse Racking Inspection
Prodek racking inspections are carried out by external, sub-contracted SARI rack inspectors, selected specifically for their services due to their considerable experience in the warehousing and distribution sector, particularly in the use of lifting equipment.
Our extensive expertise, commitment to guideline adherence, and working relationship with approved inspectors mean we are well-placed to make recommendations to protect your racking, such as barriers to prevent Forklift Trucks from being able to impact the upright structure of racking. Upon completion of a racking inspection, we will issue a full report identifying any damaged components with a racking layout so you can easily identify problem locations.
Following the rack safety inspection report provided by external SEMA rack inspectors, Prodek can also provide a quote for replacing materials and carrying out associated repair work to bring the racking system back to the required standard.
Additional Services
Prodek design and install the full complement of warehouse storage solutions – check out our range of Shelving Systems and Racking Solutions.
We have expert storage solutions for every application including Mezzanine Floors and Office Fit-Outs.
Racking Inspection – FAQ’s
Does racking need to be inspected?
To ensure safety, longevity and structural integrity, racking systems should be inspected regularly. Regular inspections help to identify potential issues such as damaged components, overloading, or improper installation, which can lead to accidents, collapses, or injuries. By maintaining regular inspections, potential issues can be detected early on and appropriate measures can be taken.
What legislation covers racking?
Some legislation that covers racking systems in the UK includes the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER), and the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992. Compliance with these regulations is necessary to ensure the safe use and maintenance of racking systems.
Is it a legal requirement to have racking inspected?
Yes, in the UK, it is a legal requirement to have racking systems inspected. The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and associated regulations, such as PUWER, impose obligations on businesses to ensure the safe use and maintenance of racking. Compliance includes regular inspections to assess racking safety and integrity.
What is a racking inspection?
A racking inspection is a thorough assessment conducted on storage racking systems in the UK to evaluate their safety and structural integrity. It involves a visual examination of the racking components, such as frames, beams, and shelves, to identify any signs of damage, misalignment, or overloading. The inspection aims to ensure compliance with legal requirements, prevent accidents, and maintain the stability of the racking system.
How often should racking be inspected?
A racking inspection in the UK is a visual assessment of storage racking systems to ensure their safety and structural integrity. It involves checking for damage, misalignment, and overloading to prevent accidents and maintain stability.
How do you carry out a racking inspection?
A racking inspection in the UK involves a visual examination of the components for damage, misalignment, and overloading. Trained personnel assess installation quality, anchoring, stability, and compliance with safety regulations. Maintenance records and load capacity may also be reviewed.
What is the HSE guidance on racking inspections?
The HSE in the UK provides guidance on racking inspections, recommending regular assessments to ensure safety and compliance. This includes checking components, identifying damage or overloading, and maintaining proper installation and maintenance. Following HSE guidance helps ensure safe racking systems.
What type of racking needs inspection?
The HSE in the UK provides guidance on racking inspections, recommending regular assessments to ensure safety and compliance. This includes checking components, identifying damage or overloading, and maintaining proper installation and maintenance.
Does racking need certification?
Yes, racking systems in the UK typically require certification to ensure they meet safety and quality standards. Compliance with recognised standards, such as SEMA or FEM, is recommended. Certification confirms that the racking has been tested and meets the necessary standards.