Should Your Company Get Its Racking Inspected?

If your business relies on pallet racking or any storage equipment systems, you might be asking yourself: “Do we really need to get our racking inspected?” The short answer is yes—and here’s why.

Why Racking Inspections Matter

Adjustable Pallet Racking systems are essential for efficient storage, but they’re also structural systems that bear significant loads. Over time, they face wear, potential damage from forklifts, corrosion, or simple user error. Even minor issues can pose serious risks to staff safety and inventory.

A routine racking inspection isn’t just a tick-box exercise—it’s a crucial step toward:

  • Preventing collapses and accidents

  • Complying with health and safety regulations

  • Extending the life of your racking

  • Protecting your team and your stock

Racking Inspectors Pallet Racking Check
SEMA Approved Inspector Agreement

Who’s Responsible?

Under UK law and industry standards (such as SEMA guidelines), the duty of care falls on the employer. That means if your business owns or operates warehouse racking, you’re responsible for ensuring it’s safe and regularly inspected—ideally by a competent and qualified person.

What Can Go Wrong Without Inspections?

A neglected racking system can lead to:

  • Undetected damage from collisions or overloading

  • Loose components like beams, frames, or pins

  • Corroded metal weakening load-bearing strength

  • Misalignment that increases the risk of collapse

  • Non-compliance with HSE regulations (which can result in fines or shutdowns)

And worst of all, someone could get hurt. That’s something no business ever wants on their conscience—or record.

When and How Often Should You Inspect?

There are three levels of racking inspection recommended:

  1. Immediate visual checks by warehouse staff daily or weekly

  2. Monthly in-house inspections by a trained team member

  3. Expert inspections annually (at minimum) by a qualified professional

Why You Should Trust SESS

If you’re going to bring in professionals to carry out inspections, it should be someone with experience, accreditation, and a focus on safety. That’s where SESS comes in.

We provide:

  • Thorough inspections in line with SEMA and HSE guidance

  • Clear, detailed reports and actionable recommendations

  • Load notices

  • Peace of mind knowing you’re meeting legal obligations

  • Ongoing support and advice from real racking specialists

Train Your Team

In addition to expert inspections, we also offer training courses to help your staff spot issues early:

  • The Inspection of Pallet Racking

  • The Maintenance of Pallet Racking

These practical sessions empower your team with the knowledge they need to maintain a safer, more efficient working environment every day.

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