Regular racking inspections are vital for keeping your warehouse safe and compliant with UK laws and regulations. Damaged and overloaded racking can collapse, putting employees and precious inventory at serious risk. By following a racking inspection checklist, you can identify early onset hazards which will reduce costly accidents. In this guide, we will cover what to check daily, weekly, and annually as well as why expert racking inspections are essential and the importance of a SARI (SEMA Approved Racking Inspector) carrying out your warehouse and yard inspection.
S.E.M.CO are full members of SEMA (Storage Equipment Manufacturers Association), with our installation and inspection teams fully SARI (SEMA Approved Rack Inspector), and SEIRS (Storage Equipment Installers Registration Scheme) registered.
Daily and Weekly Racking Checks
Your warehouse staff should carry out quick visual inspections during daily operations. Key points for the daily and weekly racking inspection checklist include:
- Look for bent uprights, twisted frames, or leaning racks.
- Ensure all safety locking pins and clips are in place.
- Check for pallet overhangs that could destabilise loads.
- identify any missing or damaged load notices.
- Verify aisles are clear and safe for forklift movement.
- Report and tag any damage immediately.
Monthly and Quarterly Racking Checks
The companies PRRS (Person Responsible for Racking Safety) who is responsible in carrying out more detailed inspections of the racking. The monthly and quarterly racking inspection checklist includes:
- Confirming that load notices are in place and visible.
- Checking rack protection devices (barriers, end guards).
- Looking for rust or corrosion, especially in outdoor yards.
- Inspecting beam connectors for wear or loosening.
- Reviewing forklift impact areas for hidden damage.
Annual Expert Racking Inspection
According to HSE and SEMA guidelines, every warehouse must arrange a full inspection at least once every 12 months. This involves:
- A SEMA Approved Racking Inspector (SARI) reviewing the structure.
- Categorising damage as Red, Amber, or Green Risk.
- Providing a formal written report with actions required.
- Advising on repairs, replacements, or improvements.
Racking Inspection Checklist Summary
- Daily/Weekly: Staff walk-through for visible damage.
- Monthly/Quarterly: The companies appointed PRRS to conduct inspections for structural issues.
- Annually: An independent expert inspection to be carried out by a qualified SARI.