Warehouse Racking Inspection Regulations: A Complete UK Compliance Guide
Warehouse Racking Inspection Regulations: A Complete UK Compliance Guide
Warehouse racking systems play a critical role in the safety, efficiency, and productivity of modern warehouses. However, racking is also one of the most frequently damaged assets in any warehouse environment, often due to forklift impacts, overloading, or general wear and tear.
At A-Z Storage Systems, we design and install compliant racking systems across the UK. To ensure those systems remain safe and legally compliant throughout their lifespan, we work closely with our sister company, A-Z Rack Inspections Ltd, who provide professional, independent racking inspection services.
This guide explains the UK legal requirements for warehouse racking inspections, who is responsible, how often inspections should be carried out, and how professional inspections help protect your business.
Are Warehouse Racking Inspections a Legal Requirement in the UK?
Yes. While there is no single piece of legislation titled “warehouse racking inspection law,” racking is classed as work equipment, which means it is legally required to be maintained and inspected under UK health and safety regulations.
Failure to inspect and maintain warehouse racking can lead to serious safety incidents, enforcement action by the HSE, and significant financial penalties.
UK Regulations That Apply to Warehouse Racking Inspections
Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974
This legislation places a duty on employers to ensure, as far as reasonably practicable:
The health and safety of employees
Safe systems of work
Safe workplace equipment
Damaged or poorly maintained racking represents a direct breach of this duty.
PUWER – Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998
Under PUWER, warehouse racking must be:
Suitable for its intended use
Correctly installed
Maintained in a safe condition
Inspected at appropriate intervals
All inspections must be carried out by competent persons, with records retained.
HSG76 – Warehousing and Storage: A Guide to Health and Safety
HSG76, published by the HSE, is the primary guidance document for warehouse racking safety in the UK. It provides clear recommendations for:
Inspection frequency
Damage reporting procedures
Risk assessment and control
Racking load management
HSG76 strongly recommends annual racking inspections by an independent, competent inspector.
SEMA Guidance: The Industry Standard
The Storage Equipment Manufacturers’ Association (SEMA) sets the industry benchmark for racking safety and inspections. SEMA recommends a three-tier inspection system:
1. Regular Visual Checks (Daily or Weekly)
Carried out by warehouse staff to identify visible issues such as:
Bent or damaged uprights
Dislodged beams
Missing locking pins
Floor fixings that have pulled loose
2. In-House Inspections by a PRRS
A Person Responsible for Racking Safety (PRRS) should be appointed and trained to:
Log and monitor racking damage
Apply SEMA damage categories (green, amber, red)
Ensure damaged racking is repaired or isolated
3. Annual Inspections by a SEMA Approved Racking Inspectors (SARI)
This is where A-Z Rack Inspections Ltd plays a vital role.
SEMA and HSG76 both recommend a formal racking inspection at least once every 12 months, carried out by an independent SEMA Approved Racking Inspectors (SARI).
Racking Inspections by A-Z Rack Inspections Ltd
A-Z Rack Inspections Ltd, our specialist sister company, provides professional racking inspections for warehouses across the UK.
Their inspection services include:
Full structural assessment of pallet racking, cantilever racking, drive-in racking, mobile racking, and shelving
Identification of impact damage, corrosion, overloading risks, and installation issues
SEMA-compliant damage classification
Detailed written inspection reports
Clear repair and action recommendations
Support with HSG76 and PUWER compliance
Using a SARI inspector ensures inspections are independent, impartial, and fully compliant with UK guidance.
What Happens If Racking Inspections Are Not Carried Out?
Failing to inspect warehouse racking can result in:
Serious injuries or fatalities
Racking collapse and stock loss
HSE enforcement notices or prosecutions
Invalid insurance claims
Costly operational downtime
In the event of an accident, the HSE will typically request inspection and maintenance records as part of its investigation.
Who Is Responsible for Warehouse Racking Safety?
Legal responsibility rests with:
Warehouse owners
Employers
Site managers
Health & safety managers
Even when inspections are outsourced to specialists such as A-Z Rack Inspections Ltd, the duty of care remains with the business.
How A-Z Storage Systems Supports Long-Term Compliance
At A-Z Storage Systems, we take a joined-up approach to warehouse safety by combining quality racking systems with professional inspection support.
We provide:
Compliant racking design and installation
SEIRS-approved installation teams
Racking repairs, replacements, and reconfigurations
Rack protection systems to reduce impact damage
Layout optimisation to improve traffic flow and safety
Through A-Z Rack Inspections Ltd, we also ensure your racking remains compliant throughout its lifespan.
Best Practice Checklist for Racking Compliance
To remain compliant and reduce risk, businesses should:
Appoint a trained PRRS
Carry out regular in-house checks
Schedule annual SARI inspections
Keep inspection and repair records
Install racking protection in high-risk areas
Train staff to report damage immediately
Never exceed racking load capacities
Conclusion
Warehouse racking inspections are a legal requirement and a vital part of maintaining a safe, efficient warehouse. By following HSE and SEMA guidance and working with qualified inspectors such as A-Z Rack Inspections Ltd, businesses can reduce risk, maintain compliance, and protect their workforce and stock.
At A-Z Storage Systems, we design, install, and support warehouse racking systems and through our sister company, we help ensure they remain safe and compliant for years to come.
Book a Racking Inspection or Compliance Review
To arrange a professional racking inspection or discuss compliance support, contact us today:
📞 07917 664940 | 07947 886161
