Your racking is considered to be work equipment under PUWER and, as such, it has to be examined regularly and maintained in good working order. This is so that it is not a danger to those of your staff who are obliged to work with and around it.
A racking inspector has undergone substantial training and passed very challenging theoretical examinations and practical tests so are able to demonstrate competence in this manner.
Is your Racking Safe? For more information download our Racking Safety PDF or call us on 01905 757 506 to book your racking inspections.
SEMA recommend that racking inspections are carried out on the ‘onion skin’ principle with several levels of inspection.
The first level should be an inspection by the operative in the warehouse who should be encouraged to report damage on a daily basis either caused by, or as observed during work. This has to be handled carefully as, if disciplinary action is taken as a result, nothing will ever be reported. Also if nothing is done as a result of such reporting then nothing will be reported either.
The second level of inspection is a weekly check carried out as part of a supervisor’s patrol inspection of the warehouse. This should be documented and actions identified as necessary should be carried out.
The final level of check is the ‘Competent-Person’ inspection, which might be carried out at 6 monthly or yearly intervals depending upon the level of activity and damage occurring in the warehouse. This inspection should be carried out by the ‘competent-person’ who has a need to demonstrate by means of his training and experience that he has the skill and knowledge to carry out this work.
The safety of your employees and the integrity of your storage infrastructure are paramount.
Pallet racking systems play a crucial role in optimising storage space, but without a warehouse racking inspection by a racking inspector, they can pose serious risks. Here, we delve into the significance of routine racking inspections and provide a comprehensive guide for businesses to conduct their own assessments.
1. Preventing Accidents and Injuries:
Regular inspections help identify potential hazards such as damaged beams, misaligned frames, or overloading. Addressing these issues promptly mitigates the risk of accidents, protecting both your workforce and inventory.
2. Ensuring Structural Integrity:
Over time, wear and tear can compromise the structural integrity of pallet racking systems. Routine inspections catch issues early, preventing catastrophic failures that could result in the collapse of the entire racking structure.
3. Compliance with Regulations:
Compliance with industry regulations and safety standards is non-negotiable. Regular racking inspections demonstrate a commitment to safety, ensuring your warehouse operations align with regulatory requirements.
A. Visual Checks:
B. Load Capacity Assessment:
C. Rack Connections:
D. Documentation Review:
While regular self-inspections are crucial, certain situations demand the expertise of a professional racking inspector. Consider professional inspections:
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