Racking Inspections

Forklift accidents are one of the most common causes of injuries and damage in warehouse environments. In many cases, these accidents are directly linked to damaged, overloaded, or poorly maintained racking systems . Regular racking safety inspections play a crucial role in identifying risks early and preventing forklift-related incidents. This article explains how racking safety inspections help prevent forklift accidents , improve warehouse safety, and support legal compliance. Why Forklift Accidents Are Common in Warehouses Forklifts operate in tight spaces, often under pressure to meet productivity targets. Common factors that increase accident risk include: Narrow aisles and limited visibility Damaged racking uprights and beams Missing or broken safety components Overloaded or incorrectly distributed pallets Poorly marked rack layouts Without routine inspections, these hazards can go unnoticed until a serious accident occurs. Identifying Structural Damage Be...

As we step into 2026, warehouse operations are evolving more rapidly than ever and safety remains at the forefront of this transformation. For racking inspectors, understanding emerging trends isn’t just about compliance; it’s about helping warehouses operate smarter, safer, and more efficiently. Here’s what’s shaping the landscape in 2026: 1. Safety as a Strategic Priority - Not Just a Box to Tick In 2026, safety is becoming a competitive advantage rather than merely a regulatory requirement. Warehouses that invest in advanced safety systemsfrom impact-resistant storage solutions to real-time monitoring — reduce costly downtime and insurance claims, helping attract new business partners who increasingly evaluate partners on their safety culture.  For racking inspectors, this means your role isn’t just reporting damage  it’s helping businesses embed safety into their operational DNA. 2. The Rise of Real-Time Monitoring and IoT Integration Connected devices and the Intern...

 Warehouse safety is a priority for every UK business that stores, moves, or handles palletised goods. One of the best ways to reduce risks and maintain compliance is to have your racking inspected by a SEMA Approved Racking Inspector (SARI)  the highest level of racking inspection competence in the UK. A SEMA inspector brings technical expertise, independence, and a deep understanding of how racking systems behave under daily warehouse operations. Here are the top benefits of hiring a SEMA Approved Racking Inspector and why so many UK warehouses rely on them. 1. Full Compliance With HSE’s HSG76 Guidance The UK Health & Safety Executive (HSE) requires racking to be inspected by a “technically competent person.” A SEMA Approved Inspector meets — and often exceeds — this requirement. By hiring a SARI, warehouse owners can demonstrate: Proper duty of care Compliance with the Workplace (Health, Safety & Welfare) Regulations Safe storage and handling of mater...

Warehouse operations depend on safe, reliable pallet racking systems. Even minor damage can quickly escalate into major safety risks, expensive repairs, and legal consequences. That’s why HSE (HSG76) and SEMA strongly recommend at least one expert racking inspection every 12 months . Annual racking inspections are not just a “best practice” they are a critical requirement for maintaining safety, compliance, and operational efficiency. 1. Required by HSE & SEMA Guidelines The UK Health and Safety Executive (HSE) clearly states that racking must be inspected: ✔ Regularly by staff ✔ Periodically by a technically competent person Under HSG76 , a technically competent person typically means a SEMA Approved Racking Inspector (SARI) or an independent specialist with formal qualifications. Annual inspections help you: Meet HSE legal expectations Demonstrate compliance during audits Avoid penalties or enforcement actions Maintain a safe working environment Skipp...

 Pallet racking plays a crucial role in warehouse operations. It holds heavy loads, supports daily picking activities, and keeps inventory organised. But with constant forklift movement, frequent pallet handling, and high storage demands, racking systems face wear and tear that is often unseen. This is why every warehouse needs a certified pallet racking inspector   not as an option, but as a necessity. In this blog, we explain why certified inspectors are essential and how they help warehouses maintain safety, compliance, and efficiency. 1. To Ensure Warehouse Safety Damaged or weakened racking can lead to: Rack collapse Injuries or fatalities Product loss Temporary shutdowns A certified inspector is trained to spot issues that warehouse staff might overlook, such as: Bent uprights Missing beam locks Misaligned frames Overloading Floor fixing issues Regular inspections reduce the risk of accidents and keep your warehouse safe. 2. They Ide...

Warehouse safety is more critical than ever, especially as operations grow more complex and fast-paced. One of the most effective ways to improve workplace safety is by ensuring your team understands how to identify, report, and manage rack damage. While standard training courses offer general knowledge, bespoke online rack safety training provides a more personalised, relevant, and impactful learning experience for your warehouse staff. Below are the top benefits of choosing a tailored online rack safety course for your team. 1. Training Tailored to Your Actual Warehouse Setup No two warehouses are the same from layout and equipment to racking types and traffic flow. Bespoke online rack safety training is customised to your facility. Trainers review your racking systems, common issues, and operational challenges and then adapt the session so it matches your environment. This means your team learns safety practices that are directly applicable and practical to their daily work. ...

Warehouse safety is evolving rapidly as technology, automation, and smarter design reshape how storage systems are built, used, and maintained. Traditional pallet racking will always remain essential for warehouse operations, but the future of racking safety lies in adopting modern innovations that prevent accidents, reduce manual risk, and improve long-term efficiency. As businesses store more products at higher volumes and greater heights, investing in advanced safety solutions is no longer optional, it’s a necessity. Smart Racking and IoT Monitoring One of the biggest breakthroughs in warehouse safety is the rise of smart racking systems equipped with sensors. These IoT devices can monitor rack load levels, detect vibration, track temperature changes, and even identify early signs of structural stress. Instead of waiting for an annual inspection to uncover hidden dangers, warehouse managers receive real-time alerts when something goes wrong. This technology makes it possible to t...

For warehouse operators, an inspection of your racking system isn’t just a formality, it’s a critical safety checkpoint. A single failure in the pallet racking can disrupt operations, put staff at risk, and lead to costly downtime. Why It’s Important Racking systems hold thousands of kilograms of goods above workers’ heads. Without proper preparation and inspection, issues like damaged frames, misaligned beams or overloaded loads can develop unnoticed. These issues may result in collapse or injury. How to Prepare Effectively Prior to the inspection: Document your system : Know your racking types, ages and any modifications made. Take inventory of damages : Identify visible damage, missing guard rails or warped beams. Review loading protocols : Ensure staff are aware of load limits, correct stacking and pallet conditions. Clear obstructed access : Inspectors must reach all aisles and see all structural parts of the racking. Engage your team : Communicate the upcoming...

Warehouse safety isn’t just about preventing accidents it’s about staying compliant with UK regulations that protect both employees and businesses. One of the key regulations that applies to all storage equipment, including pallet racking, is PUWER  the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 . If you operate a warehouse in Yorkshire , understanding how PUWER affects your pallet racking system is essential to maintaining a safe, compliant, and efficient workspace. What Is PUWER? PUWER (Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998) is a set of UK health and safety rules enforced by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) . The regulations apply to any equipment used at work  from forklifts and conveyors to pallet racking systems , shelving, and mezzanine structures. In simple terms, PUWER requires that all equipment used in the workplace must be: Safe to use Properly maintained Used by trained personnel Regularly inspected by a competent person This...

In busy warehouses across Yorkshire , pallet racking systems play a crucial role in keeping operations organised, efficient, and safe. However, these structures often face daily wear and tear from forklifts, heavy loads, and constant activity all of which can cause hidden damage over time. That’s why regular pallet racking inspections are essential for every warehouse in the region, whether you’re based in Leeds, Sheffield, Hull, or York . 1. Protecting Your Workforce Employee safety should always be the top priority in any warehouse. Damaged or overloaded racking can easily collapse, leading to serious injuries or worse. Regular inspections help you identify early signs of damage such as bent uprights, missing safety pins, or weakened beams before they become dangerous. Tip: Under HSE guidance (HSG76), warehouse owners must ensure that racking systems are properly maintained and safe for daily use. 2. Meeting UK Safety Regulations While pallet racking inspections are not exp...

In a busy warehouse, every second counts  from how quickly pallets are accessed to how safely goods are stored. One of the most effective (and often overlooked) ways to improve operational performance is by installing the right racking system . Whether you're running a small distribution centre or a large logistics hub, the layout and structure of your storage directly affect productivity, safety, and cost efficiency . In this post, we’ll explore how the right racking system can transform your warehouse operations, increase capacity, and support long-term growth. 1. Maximising Space Utilisation Every square metre in a warehouse has a cost — especially in the UK where storage space is at a premium. A well-designed racking system uses vertical space efficiently, freeing up valuable floor area for equipment movement and workflows. Selective racking allows for easy access to every pallet, ideal for warehouses with a wide range of SKUs. Push-back or drive-in racking increase...

Pallet racking systems are the backbone of any warehouse, but even the strongest structures can become unsafe without regular inspections and maintenance. In the UK, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) recommends that all racking undergo an annual expert inspection by a SEMA Approved Racking Inspector (SARI) . To help you stay compliant and prepare for professional inspections, we’ve put together a comprehensive SEMA inspection checklist . This will give your team a clear understanding of what inspectors look for and ensure your racking meets SEMA and HSE UK safety standards . 1. Uprights and Frames A key focus during inspections is the condition and stability of uprights and frames. SARIs check for: Bent, twisted, or damaged uprights Signs of impact damage from forklifts or pallet trucks Loose or missing base plates and fixings Corrosion or rust that may weaken the structure Proper installation and alignment of all frames Even minor damage can significantly reduce load capaci...