In the United Kingdom, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and the Storage Equipment Manufacturersโ 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.
Benefits of Regular Racking Inspections
Conducting regular pallet racking safety inspections offers several benefits:
- Improve Safety โ Identify and address hazards and risks, preventing accidents and injuries to workers.
- Ensure Compliance with Regulations โ Confirm that the racking system complies with UK safety regulations set by HSE and SEMA, avoiding fines and penalties.
- Enhance Efficiency โ Properly maintained racks improve warehouse efficiency by ensuring safe and easy storage and access.
- Save Costs โ Detect potential problems early, reducing costs for repairs, replacements, or accidents.
- Improve Business Image โ Demonstrate compliance with safety regulations, enhancing the company’s reputation.
- Obtain Better Insurance Terms โ Regular safety inspections can lead to better insurance terms and serve as evidence of proactive safety measures.
Keep records of all safety inspections, maintenance, and repairs to demonstrate compliance with safety regulations and provide a reference for future inspections.
How Often Should Pallet Racking Be Inspected?
Pallet racking should be inspected regularly, at least once a year, to ensure it is safe and in good condition. The frequency of inspections depends on the type of operation, equipment used, and regulatory requirements.
SEMA recommends inspecting pallet racking systems at least once a year by a qualified inspector, or more frequently if the system is heavily used or shows signs of damage or wear. The HSE suggests a safety inspection of the whole warehouse at least once a year, with more frequent inspections if specific risks or hazards are present.
Safety inspections should be seen as a continuous process. Regular inspections, preventative maintenance, and good housekeeping can help identify potential hazards early and prevent accidents. Conduct immediate inspections after incidents, near-misses, or complaints to identify and rectify any problems as soon as possible.
High Rate of Accidents and Injuries in Warehousing
The warehousing and storage industry has a high rate of accidents and injuries compared to other industries. The HSE reports that in 2018/2019, the sector had a rate of 4.4 non-fatal injuries per 100,000 workers, higher than the overall rate of 2.8 per 100,000 workers for all industries. Common causes of accidents in warehouses include slips, trips, falls, being struck by falling objects, manual handling injuries, vehicle-related incidents, and injuries caused by defective or poorly maintained equipment such as pallet racking or conveyor systems.
Implementing safety measures and regular inspections is crucial to prevent accidents and ensure compliance with regulations, as the actual number of incidents may be higher due to underreporting.
Pallet Racking Inspection Services North East
For businesses in North East England, ensuring the safety and compliance of your pallet racking systems is of utmost importance. 2h Storage Solutions offers professional pallet racking inspection services tailored to your specific needs. Our expertise and commitment to safety ensure comprehensive inspections that help identify potential issues and ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations.
Why Choose 2h Storage Solutions?
Experience and Expertise
With over 25 years of experience in the storage industry, we have extensive knowledge of pallet racking systems and their safety requirements. Our team of qualified inspectors possesses the necessary expertise to assess the condition of your racking systems accurately.
Compliance with Regulations
We understand the importance of complying with health and safety regulations, including SEMA guidelines, HSE requirements, and other industry standards. Our inspections focus on identifying potential risks, non-compliance issues, and necessary corrective actions to ensure your pallet racking systems meet the required safety standards.
Customized Inspection Services
We tailor our inspection services to meet the specific needs of your business and racking systems. Our inspections cover all critical components of the pallet racking system, including upright frames, beams, bracing, safety devices, load levels, and more.
Detailed Inspection Reports
After conducting a thorough inspection, we provide you with detailed reports that highlight any observed issues or potential risks. Our reports outline recommended actions and prioritize them based on severity, helping you understand the necessary steps to ensure the safety and longevity of your racking systems.
Repair and Maintenance Solutions
In addition to inspections, we offer comprehensive repair and maintenance services to address any identified issues promptly. Our team of experienced engineers can carry out necessary repairs, replacements, and installations to restore your pallet racking systems to optimal condition.
Contact Us Today
Book your racking inspection or free site survey by calling us today on 01937 585 057 or use the form below: