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UK Legislation: Warehouse Rack Inspections and Storage Equipment

When it comes to warehouse operations, racking and storage equipment is often the most overlooked part of workplace safety. Yet under UK health and safety legislation, racking is classed as work equipment, meaning it falls under strict inspection and maintenance requirements.

Failing to comply with these regulations can lead to serious consequences—from accidents and stock loss to prosecution by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). This blog explores the legislation that applies to racking, what it means for warehouse operators, and how to stay compliant.

Why Racking Inspections Are a Legal Requirement

Your warehouse racking isn’t just storage—it’s a piece of equipment that supports heavy loads, staff safety, and overall efficiency. Like forklifts or conveyors, it must be kept in a safe, serviceable condition.

The HSE makes it clear in HSG76: Warehousing and Storage – A Guide to Health and Safety that racking systems should be regularly inspected and maintained to prevent collapse or failure. Ignoring inspections isn’t just poor practice, it’s a breach of law.

Key UK Legislation Covering Racking Inspections

1. PUWER 1998 (Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations)

Under PUWER, all work equipment must be:

• Suitable for its intended purpose.

• Maintained in safe working order.

• Inspected regularly by a competent person.

Since racking is classed as work equipment, warehouse operators must ensure it is inspected and safe to use at all times.

2. Health and Safety at Work Act 1974

Employers have a duty of care to protect employees and visitors. That includes maintaining a safe warehouse environment where racking structures are secure, stable, and not at risk of collapse.

3. Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999

These regulations require employers to carry out risk assessments and put controls in place. Damaged or overloaded racking poses a serious risk, so inspections are a critical part of compliance.

4. HSE Guidance HSG76

The HSE’s official warehousing guidance (HSG76) states that racking must be:

• Inspected regularly by staff through internal checks.

• Formally inspected by a “technically competent person” at least once every 12 months, typically a SEMA Approved Racking Inspector (SARI).

The Role of the SEMA Traffic Light System

During formal inspections, racking damage is categorised using the SEMA traffic light system:

• Green Risk – Minor issues; safe to use but monitor and repair.

• Amber Risk – Requires remedial work; action must be taken.

• Red Risk – Serious damage; racking must be offloaded and isolated immediately.

This system ensures compliance and gives warehouse managers clear actions to follow.

Consequences of Non-Compliance

Ignoring racking inspection requirements can have severe outcomes:

• Fines and enforcement notices from HSE.

• Invalidated insurance claims after an accident.

• Legal liability in the event of injuries or fatalities.

• Reputational damage from safety failings.

Simply put: if your warehouse racking isn’t inspected, you’re putting your people, stock, and business at risk.

How to Stay Compliant

To meet your legal obligations, warehouses should:

• Carry out daily visual checks by trained staff.

• Complete internal weekly/monthly audits to record damage.

• Book an annual racking inspection by a SEMA Approved Inspector.

• Keep records of all inspections, repairs, and corrective actions.

Book Your Racking Inspection with A-Z Rack Inspections Ltd

At A-Z Rack Inspections Ltd, we provide fully compliant inspections carried out by SEMA Approved Racking Inspectors. Our detailed reports help you meet HSE, PUWER, and HSG76 requirements, while keeping your warehouse safe, efficient, and legally compliant.

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

Protect your warehouse, protect your team, and protect your business, stay compliant with UK racking legislation.

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