Who is qualified to carry out racking inspections? Roles, training, certifications

-

Ensuring the safety of warehouse racking systems is not just best practice, it’s a legal requirement under UK health and safety regulations. Poorly maintained or damaged racking can lead to serious accidents, stock damage, and costly downtime. That’s why regular inspections are essential. But the big question is: who is actually qualified to carry out these inspections?

Let’s break it down.

1. Daily and Weekly Checks - Carried Out by Warehouse Staff

While not a replacement for formal inspections, warehouse staff are the first line of defence. Trained employees should perform visual checks as part of their daily or weekly routine. They can quickly identify:

  • Bent or damaged uprights
  • Missing safety pins or locking devices
  • Overloaded beams
  • Signs of rust or corrosion

These in-house checks should be logged and reported, but they are not considered formal inspections.

2. The Role of a PRRS (Person Responsible for Racking Safety)

Under HSE guidelines, every workplace using pallet racking should appoint a PRRS. This is usually a supervisor, safety officer, or warehouse manager who has received basic training in racking safety.

Their responsibilities include:

  • Overseeing regular internal inspections
  • Keeping maintenance and repair records
  • Acting as the link between staff and external inspectors

While the PRRS has oversight responsibility, they are still not a substitute for a professional racking inspection.

3. SEMA Approved Racking Inspectors (SARI) - The Industry Standard

The Storage Equipment Manufacturers’ Association (SEMA) is the UK’s leading authority on safe racking use. Their SEMA Approved Racking Inspector (SARI) qualification is the gold standard in the industry.

A SARI inspector is:

  • Independently assessed and certified by SEMA
  • Fully trained to identify risks beyond the obvious visual signs
  • Knowledgeable about UK health and safety legislation (HSE, PUWER)
  • Qualified to produce detailed inspection reports with risk categorisation

According to HSE guidelines, a “technically competent” person, such as a SEMA Approved Inspector, should carry out a thorough inspection at least once every 12 months.

4. Why Certification Matters

Not all racking inspections are equal. Choosing a SEMA-certified inspector ensures that:

  • The inspection meets UK regulatory requirements
  • Risks are categorised (Green, Amber, Red) for clear action steps
  • Repairs and replacements are recommended before hazards escalate
  • You have documented proof of compliance for insurers and HSE officers

5. Key Takeaway

  • Warehouse staff - Carry out daily/weekly visual checks
  • PRRS - Oversees safety responsibilities and record-keeping
  • SARI inspectors - Provide annual, formal, and fully compliant inspections

To stay compliant and safe, every warehouse should use a SEMA Approved Racking Inspector alongside internal checks. This ensures both regulatory compliance and peace of mind that your warehouse is operating safely.

Looking for a SEMA-qualified inspector? At SEE Racking Inspections, our certified experts carry out detailed pallet racking inspections across the UK. Get in touch today to book your inspection and keep your warehouse fully compliant.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

What is a Pallet Racking Inspection?

-
  A pallet racking inspection is a process of assessing and evaluating the condition and safety of pallet racking systems in warehouses, distribution centers, or other storage facilities. Pallet racking systems are commonly used to store and organize palletized goods or materials. The purpose of a pallet racking inspection is to identify any potential hazards, structural damage, or operational issues that could compromise the integrity and safety of the racking system. By conducting regular inspections, potential risks can be identified and addressed promptly to prevent accidents, injuries, or damage to goods. During a pallet racking inspection, a qualified inspector or a competent person familiar with racking systems examines various aspects, including: Visual Inspection : The inspector visually examines the racking system, looking for signs of damage, such as bent or twisted beams, missing or damaged connectors, or dented uprights. Load Capacity Assessment : The inspector revie...
Read more

Avoiding Warehouse Accidents with Racking Inspection Training

-
Image
  The safety and integrity of racking systems are at the very centre of good warehouse management. These structures, often towering and laden with significant weight, are the backbone of efficient warehouse operations – but if used incorrectly or poorly maintained, they can be highly dangerous and costly. Ensuring the stability and safety of your racking through regular inspections is often thought of as tedious red tape or a procedural formality; in reality, it’s a fundamental aspect of operational safety. The actual process of  pallet racking inspection  is complex as there are numerous areas that can be overlooked, with the potential for dire consequences. This blog provides an overview of these common inspection errors and emphasizes the impact that comprehensive training can have in averting potential disasters – by understanding (and avoiding) these pitfalls, warehouse managers can take meaningful steps toward safeguarding their operations and workforce. Full blog -...
Read more

Understanding UK Workplace Inspection Regulations: What Employers Need to Know

-
 Ensuring a safe and compliant workplace is a key responsibility for employers in the UK. Workplace inspections play a critical role in identifying hazards, maintaining safety standards, and adhering to legal obligations. This guide covers the essential aspects of UK workplace inspection regulations that employers need to understand. Legal Framework for Workplace Inspections In the UK, workplace inspections are governed by various laws and regulations, primarily under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 (HSWA). The HSWA imposes a general duty on employers to ensure, as far as reasonably practicable, the health, safety, and welfare of employees and others affected by work activities. Supporting regulations include: The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 – Requires risk assessments and appropriate preventive measures. The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 – Covers essential workplace conditions such as ventilation, lighting, and c...
Read more