Racking Inspections

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 rac...

Warehouse racking systems carry tonnes of goods every day, but when they’re not properly maintained, they pose a serious risk of collapse, accidents, and costly downtime. To keep staff safe and remain legally compliant, UK warehouses must carry out regular racking inspections . This guide explains the legal requirements, inspection types, and best practices for keeping your racking systems safe and compliant. For a structured framework, see the 3-Step Approach to Warehouse Safety . Are Racking Inspections a Legal Requirement in the UK? Yes. While the law doesn’t mention “racking inspections” by name, warehouse operators are legally responsible under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER) 1998 to ensure equipment is safe. According to the HSE (Health and Safety Executive) and guidance from SEMA (Storage Equipment Manufacturers Association) : Racking is classed as work equipment. It must be maintained in a safe cond...

A warehouse is a busy environment where people, machinery, and goods move constantly. Without proper safety measures, accidents can happen quickly—leading to injuries, downtime, and even legal issues. One of the most effective ways to keep your workplace safe is by using a warehouse safety checklist . A checklist ensures that nothing is overlooked, helping you stay compliant with UK regulations and maintain a safe, efficient workspace. In fact, structured approaches like the 3-Step Approach to Warehouse Safety highlight just how important it is to have a system in place. Why a Warehouse Safety Checklist is Important Prevents accidents – Regular checks identify hazards before they cause harm. Ensures compliance – Helps meet Health and Safety Executive (HSE) requirements. Boosts efficiency – A safe environment reduces downtime and improves productivity. Encourages accountability – Everyone knows their role in keeping the workplace safe. Key Elements of a Warehouse Saf...

Distribution centres across the UK are under constant pressure — fast deliveries, high stock turnover, and the need for maximum efficiency. In such demanding environments, pallet racking systems play a crucial role. But without proper safety measures, these same systems can become a major source of risk. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and the Storage Equipment Manufacturers Association (SEMA) set clear expectations for warehouse and racking safety. By following their guidance, UK distribution centres can prevent accidents, protect employees, and avoid costly downtime. Here are the essential racking safety best practices every UK distribution centre should follow. 1. Carry Out Regular Racking Inspections Weekly Checks : Conducted by the Person Responsible for Racking Safety (PRRS) , these inspections catch early signs of damage such as bent uprights, missing beam locks, or impact marks from forklifts. Annual Inspections : Required under HSE HSG76 guidance , annual ins...

In London’s fast-paced logistics and warehousing sector, efficiency is everything. With same-day delivery now an expectation, warehouses across Greater London — from Heathrow to Croydon and Barking — are under immense pressure to move goods faster, safer, and more accurately. But there’s one factor that often gets overlooked in the race for efficiency: racking safety . The truth is, a safe racking system doesn’t just prevent accidents it’s a critical driver of warehouse performance. How Racking Safety Impacts Efficiency 1. Reduces Downtime A damaged or collapsed racking system can shut down entire sections of a warehouse. Even a short disruption in London’s high-volume supply chain can cause serious delivery delays. Routine racking inspections catch issues before they lead to downtime, keeping operations running smoothly. 2. Maximises Storage Capacity Unsafe or overloaded racks often mean empty shelves or blocked aisles. By ensuring racks are inspected, compliant, and clearly la...

The West Midlands has been considered the pulsing heart of logistics and manufacturing sector of the United Kingdom. Being home to major transport links, bustling industrial estates, large distribution hubs in Birmingham, Wolverhampton, Coventry, and Dudley, all of which rely on pallet racking systems each and every day. As warehouses get busier and pressure on the supply chain intensifies, however, racking safety is more paramount than ever. Rising Demand on Warehousing in the West Midlands The last few years have witnessed a spur in the e-commerce, manufacturing, and logistics growth. The centrality of the West Midlands, together with road, rail and air transport links has created a top location as a storage and distribution centre. This has led to: Higher storage density – racking systems are pushed to capacity. Increased forklift traffic – more opportunities for accidental damage. Greater staff numbers – more people exposed to potential risks. The greater the pre...

Whether you run a busy distribution centre in Birmingham, a manufacturing hub in Wolverhampton, or a smaller warehouse elsewhere in the UK, racking safety audits are essential for compliance, efficiency, and the wellbeing of your staff.  The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) requires that racking is maintained under the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER) and inspected at least annually by a “technically competent person” —typically a SEMA Approved Racking Inspector (SARI) . A racking safety audit doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right preparation, you can make the process smooth, efficient, and beneficial for your operations. Why Racking Safety Audits Matter Legal compliance – demonstrate adherence to PUWER and HSG76 guidelines. Risk reduction – identify and address racking damage before it causes accidents. Cost savings – avoid downtime, emergency repairs, and potential fines. Staff confidence – reassure your workforce that the...