Why Regular Pallet Racking Inspections Matter
Regular pallet racking inspections keep your warehouse safe, legal, and running smoothly. They prevent accidents, protect stock, and save money in the long run.
Here are the main benefits:
Safety
- Damaged or overloaded racks can collapse.
- Inspections spot bent beams, loose bolts, or weak frames early.
- Fixing problems fast stops injuries and saves lives.
Compliance
- UK law (Health & Safety at Work Act 1974 and PUWER 1998) requires safe racking.
- Regular checks help you avoid fines and legal trouble.
Inventory Protection
- A rack failure can destroy thousands of pounds of stock.
- Early inspections stop small issues becoming big losses.
Operational Efficiency
- Well-maintained racks mean fewer breakdowns and smoother forklift movement.
- You keep downtime low and productivity high.
Longevity & Cost Savings
- Catch minor damage early = cheap fixes instead of expensive replacements.
- Proper care makes racks last years longer.
UK Legal Requirements – Simple Summary
Yes – racking inspections are a legal requirement in the UK.
| Law / Guidance | What it means for you |
|---|---|
| Health & Safety at Work Act 1974 | Provide a safe place to work |
| PUWER 1998 | All work equipment (including racking) must be checked and maintained |
| SEMA Guidelines | Industry best practice – widely accepted by HSE |
Who can inspect?
Only a “competent person” with proper training and experience.
How often?
| Risk Level | Recommended Frequency |
|---|---|
| Normal use | At least every 12 months (SEMA) |
| Heavy traffic / high loads | Every 6 months or quarterly |
| New or modified racks | Full pre-use inspection before loading |
Daily/Weekly ChecksTrain staff to do quick visual checks and report damage immediately (bent parts, missing clips, overloaded bays, etc.).What must be recorded?
- Date of inspection
- Issues found
- Repairs carried out
- Name of inspector
Keep these records – HSE inspectors will ask to see them.
What Happens in a Professional Inspection?
A trained inspector will check:
- Upright frames for bends or rust
- Beams and connectors for damage
- Bracing and footplates
- Load signs are clear and correct
- No overloading
- All safety clips and locks are in place
You receive:
- A clear report with colour-coded risk levels (Green / Amber / Red)
- Photos of any damage
- List of urgent and non-urgent repairs
- Advice on load limits and layout improvements
2h Storage Solutions – Racking Inspections in the North East
.What we offer:
- Fully trained and experienced inspectors
- Fast, clear reports the same week
- Red/Amber/Green damage rating system
- Help with repairs and parts if needed
- Staff training on daily checks
- Pre-use inspections for new or altered racks
Keep your warehouse safe and legal – book your inspection today.
Call us now: 01937 585057
Simple checks today prevent big problems tomorrow.
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