Annual Racking Inspections
An annual racking inspection will usually take less than half a day, and as with many things in life, it is better to be safe than sorry. It is so important to have your racking inspected. Click here to see some videos of racking collapsing and why you should always ensure racking is inspected annually.
Annual Pallet Racking Inspections: A crucial step in ensuring warehouse safety. Our inspectors conduct thorough assessments, taking less than half a day, prioritizing safety over oversight.
Health and Safety Executive guidelines emphasize the significance of regular racking inspections. Our team, equipped with racking inspection training, diligently ensures compliance. We recognize the gravity of rack safety, making us storage equipment experts trusted by warehouse owners.
As the person responsible for rack safety, it’s pivotal to address potential risks. Racking safety PRSs underscore the need for these annual inspections. Witnessing racking collapse in our videos highlights the imperative nature of these assessments.
Our services extend across the North of England, covering Leeds, Bradford, York, Harrogate, Middlesborough, Sunderland, Newcastle, Yorkshire, and Teesside. Don’t overlook safety—schedule your annual pallet racking inspection today
Book Racking Inspection
Call our expert team here at 2h Storage on 01937 585057 to arrange your annual racking inspection with us. We can inspect all types of racking, storage systems and work equipment.
Racking Inspection Checklist
In the United Kingdom, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and the Storage Equipment Manufacturers’ Association (SEMA) set the safety regulations for pallet racks. These rules cover the design, installation, and maintenance of pallet racking systems.
Regular inspections are essential to ensure the safety and structural integrity of your storage system. Here’s a comprehensive pallet racking inspection checklist to help you identify potential issues and take appropriate actions:
1. General Inspection
- Check for any signs of damage or distortion in upright frames, beams, or bracing.
- Ensure the racking system is plumb and level.
- Look for signs of rust, corrosion, or deterioration in metal components.
- Inspect the floor beneath the racks for any signs of damage or unevenness.
2. Upright Frames
- Examine the upright frames for vertical and horizontal stability.
- Check for any visible signs of bending, dents, or structural damage.
- Ensure the baseplates are secure and not damaged.
- Verify that the uprights are properly anchored to the floor or wall.
3. Beams
- Inspect the beams for any visible signs of bending, twisting, or damage.
- Check beam connectors and locking devices to ensure they are properly engaged.
- Ensure the beams are correctly seated in the connectors.
- Verify that the load weight on the beams does not exceed the manufacturer’s specified limits.
4. Safety Devices and Accessories
- Check the presence and functionality of beam safety pins or locking clips.
- Inspect the condition and proper installation of pallet supports or wire mesh decking.
- Verify the use and functionality of load stop beams or pallet stops to prevent items from falling.
5. Load Levels and Load Distribution
- Ensure the loads are evenly distributed across the beams.
- Check for any signs of overloading or uneven loading that could compromise the rack’s integrity.
- Confirm that the pallets or storage containers are in good condition and suitable for the load.
6. Aisle Clearances
- Verify that the aisles are clear of obstructions, debris, or stored items.
- Ensure fire suppression equipment, emergency exits, and safety signage are not obstructed.
7. Documentation and Labels
- Check for proper labeling and signage indicating load capacities, rack locations, and safety information.
- Review documentation for the rack system, including design plans, load calculations, and inspection records.
8. Employee Training and Awareness
- Ensure employees are trained in safe loading and unloading practices.
- Promote a culture of promptly reporting any damage or safety concerns.
Document and address any identified issues or damages promptly. Consult a qualified rack system engineer or supplier for guidance on repairs, replacements, or necessary actions to maintain the safety and integrity of your pallet racking system. Regular inspections should be a part of your warehouse safety program to mitigate potential risks and maintain a safe working environment.
SEMA approved racking inspectors provide racking inspections to enable regular opportunities to fully examine the structure and functionality of your warehouse racking. Thorough checks not only ensure you remain compliant with workplace health and safety requirements but also provide opportunities for you to assess if you are using your space efficiently and cost-effectively. Pallet racking inspections should be carried out every 12 months by a SEMA-approved inspector.
What is SEMA?
SEMA stands for Storage Equipment Manufacturers Association. SEMA is the British trade association of the Storage Equipment industry and sets the guidelines for what degree of damage is acceptable in warehouse pallet racking and other associated products. HSE guidelines (HSG76 guidance) recommend that you use a racking supplier who is also a SEMA member.
Accidents can happen in any warehouse, so regular inspections are the key. Small changes throughout the year could unknowingly create environments where accidents can happen. Over time general bumps and the moving of goods can create problems. A SEMA-approved pallet racking inspection carried out each year will help spot the changes and put in place solutions to keep the warehouse safe.
Annual inspections can indicate areas where improvements might need to be made. Such as installing safety barriers in high areas of traffic. Our team comprises SEMA-approved racking inspectors, ensuring your annual SEMA racking inspection are expertly conducted for your peace of mind.
SEMA Code of Practice
Colour Coding System
SEMA has a colour coding system of Red, Amber, and Green: which is used for assessing damage to structural components of a racking system. Where damage is detected it should be assessed and the racks offloaded according to the severity of damage as covered below:
Red: Red indicates that the rack is well outside the limits of the SEMA code and it should be off-loaded immediately and not used again until it has been repaired.
Amber: Amber means that it is outside the SEMA code, but the rack does not have to be immediately off-loaded. However, when it is off-loaded it should not be used again until the problem has been attended to.
Green: Green means that an item is damaged but is within the SEMA code. It can be used but must be monitored.