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PUWER & Rack Inspections: Understanding Your Responsibilities

Warehouse racking systems are the backbone of industries such as logistics, retail, distribution, and manufacturing. But without regular inspections and maintenance, they can quickly turn from an asset into a major safety risk. In the UK, keeping racking safe isn’t just best practice, it’s a legal obligation under PUWER (Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998).

Understanding your responsibilities under PUWER and ensuring your racking is inspected correctly will help you prevent accidents, protect employees, and avoid costly enforcement action. In this guide, we’ll explain what PUWER means for warehouse operators, why racking inspections are essential, and how to stay compliant.

What is PUWER?

PUWER is a UK regulation designed to ensure the safe use of work equipment, which includes warehouse racking systems. Under PUWER, employers must make sure that all work equipment is:

• Suitable for its intended purpose

• Maintained in a safe condition and regularly inspected

• Used only by trained employees

• Supported with the right safety measures (e.g., signage, protective devices, and load notices)

Non-compliance can result in HSE investigations, fines, and legal penalties, especially in the event of a workplace accident.

How PUWER Applies to Racking Inspections

Racking systems are legally considered work equipment. This means that:

• Racking must be kept in a safe condition to prevent failures and collapses.

• Regular inspections are required to spot damage, wear, or unsafe loading.

• Staff must receive training to recognise risks and use racking safely.

• An annual expert inspection by a SEMA Approved Rack Inspector is recommended by the HSE.

• Day-to-day and weekly/monthly checks should be carried out by a Person Responsible for Racking Safety (PRRS).

Who is Responsible for Racking Safety?

Under PUWER, the employer is legally accountable for ensuring racking safety. This includes:

• Appointing a Person Responsible for Racking Safety (PRRS) to oversee daily safety.

• Carrying out weekly/monthly internal checks by trained staff.

• Arranging an annual inspection by a SARI Inspector.

• Taking immediate corrective action when risks are identified.

What a PUWER-Compliant Racking Inspection Involves

1. In-House Visual Checks (Weekly or Monthly)

PRRS-led internal checks should look for:

• Damaged uprights (often caused by forklifts).

• Missing or loose locking pins.

• Overloading beyond manufacturer limits.

• Corrosion, rust, or cracked welds.

• Misaligned or incorrectly installed racking.

• Unsafe stacking practices.

2. Annual Racking Inspections

A professional racking inspector conducts a detailed inspection using the SEMA RAG (Red, Amber, Green) traffic light system:

• Red Risk – Immediate danger; racking must be offloaded and repaired.

• Amber Risk – Remedial action required within four weeks.

• Green Risk – Minor issues; monitor and repair during routine maintenance.

A full inspection report is then issued, with evidence, photographs, and recommendations.

The Risks of Ignoring PUWER

Failing to comply with PUWER and inspection requirements can result in:

• Accidents and injuries from collapsed racking.

• HSE investigations, fines, and prosecutions.

• Escalating repair costs from neglected damage.

• Operational downtime if racking becomes unsafe or fails.

How A-Z Rack Inspections Helps You Stay Compliant

At A-Z Rack Inspections Ltd, we provide PUWER-compliant services to keep your warehouse safe and legal:

• Expert racking inspections

• Detailed traffic light inspection reports

• Tailored racking safety training for warehouse staff

• Ongoing compliance support to prevent risks and downtime

Conclusion: Stay Safe, Stay PUWER Compliant

PUWER compliance is not optional, it’s the law. By conducting regular internal checks and arranging annual independent racking inspections, businesses can reduce risks, protect staff, and safeguard warehouse operations.

Call us today on 07947 886161 or 07917 664940
Email: sales@a-zrackinspections.co.uk

Trust A-Z Rack Inspections Ltd to keep your warehouse compliant, efficient, and safe.

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With over 25 years of experience, our SEMA Approved Racking Inspectors offer nationwide racking inspection and training.

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