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A rack inspection is the best way to protect your employees and business assets. But how often should you be having a rack inspection?
Below you will find a basic guide to understanding when you should conduct a rack inspection. So, let’s get started.
Firstly, how often do you think your racking should be inspected?
- When you see damage to your rack
- Yearly
- Weekly
- All of the above
The correct answer is: all of the above
It is recommended by SEMA and in the HSE document Warehousing and Storage, HSG76, that inspections should be carried out at intervals no longer than 12 months by a technically competent person and weekly by a fully trained member of internal staff. All rack damage should be immediately reported to your PRRS when spotted.
Reactive rack inspections (when you see damage to your rack)
When a staff member spots rack damage, they should immediately report it to their PRRS (Person Responsible for Racking Safety). This is your first line of defense in avoiding serious accidents.
To run an efficient and safe warehouse, your business should encourage the reporting of damage and avoid a culture of blame.
Weekly rack inspections
Weekly checks should be carried out by your PRRS (Person Responsible for Racking Safety). A formal written record should be maintained for each check. At least one member of staff should be appointed as PRRS. Your PRRS can get an industry-recognised certificate by completing the SEMA Rack Awareness Course.
Yearly, or annual, rack inspections
A technical expert, or SARI (SEMA Approved Rack Inspector), should carry out a full inspection every 12 months – at least.
Consider more frequent inspections if you work in a busy environment or if you encounter frequent damage.
Under the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 it is a legal requirement to have an annual rack inspection.
Who can carry out a rack inspection?
The PRRS must be trained in rack awareness to complete weekly internal inspections. The annual inspection must be carried out by an independent SARI (SEMA Approved Rack Inspector).
Book a rack inspection
This part is easy. Simply head to our website and book a rack inspection with our SEMA approved inspectors online: https://www.rapidracking.com/en/rra/rack-inspection