Pallet racking inspections in the UK: is it a legal requirement?
Many businesses in the UK wonder whether pallet racking inspections are a legal requirement or simply a best practice, so in this blog we'll explore the regulations surrounding pallet racking inspections in the UK and why they are essential for the safety of your employees and the longevity of your business.
The legislation
While this legislation doesn't explicitly mandate racking inspections, it sets the tone for ensuring that workplaces are safe. An inspection is required under the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998, and to comply with “BS EN15635 Steel static storage systems. Application and Maintenance of Storage Equipment”. The HSE publication “HSG76 Warehousing and Storage: A Guide to Health and Safety” recommends inspection by an independent SARI – SEMA Approved Rack Inspector. Enforcing authorities would be looking for the last Rack Safety Inspection Report during an enforcement visit or if there has been an accident.
These regulations emphasise the responsibility of employers to ensure the safety of their employees and to maintain equipment, including pallet racking, in a safe and functional condition.
Here at Stamina Storage Systems, we have a specialist team of inspectors trained to provide you with a comprehensive annual inspection following the strict SEMA guidelines.
Here at Stamina Storage Systems, we have a specialist team of inspectors trained to provide you with a comprehensive annual inspection following the strict SEMA guidelines.
Failing to comply with legal requirements can have serious consequences, and we always recommend that your business conducts regular racking inspections internally and also receives a Racking Inspection, carried out a technical competent person at least every 12 months as a minimum.
If you want your racking to be inspected by our trained inspectors, then our experts at Stamina Storage systems Storage can help. Get in touch with a member of our team to book your racking inspection today.
Contact a member of our expert team to discuss your needs.
Does pallet racking need to be certified?
When it comes to warehouse efficiency and safety, pallet racking often plays a central role. But as you evaluate your storage systems, you may wonder: Does pallet racking need to be certified?
The short answer: Yes, in most cases, it does. Certification ensures that your racking meets industry standards for safety, compliance, and performance, which protects your people, your inventory, and your business operations.
The Storage Equipment Manufacturers’ Association (SEMA) provides industry guidelines and codes of practice for the design, installation, and use of storage equipment, including pallet racking.
The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER) impose a duty on employers to ensure the safety of their employees and the equipment they use. This includes pallet racking systems.
While SEMA certification is not a legal requirement, it is widely recognised as a mark of quality and compliance with safety standards.
Insurance companies may also require businesses to adhere to certain standards for pallet racking safety to maintain insurance coverage.
To ensure the safety and reliability of your pallet racking system, it is recommended to engage qualified professionals for its design, installation, and regular inspections. They can help ensure that the racking system meets relevant standards and guidelines, providing peace of mind regarding its structural integrity and the safety of workers and goods stored on it.
Contact a member of our expert team to discuss your needs.
The Importance of Racking Protection
Here we'll explore the importance of using racking protection to safeguard your racking uprights, the benefits it offers, and the various options available from Stamina Storage Systems to ensure the structural integrity of your warehouse.
Why protect your racking uprights?
Racking uprights are the vertical components that support the entire weight of your storage system. They are susceptible to damage from forklift collisions, pallet impacts, and general wear and tear.
Protecting these uprights is not just a smart investment; it's a safety imperative for your employees and the longevity of your warehouse infrastructure.
Protecting these uprights is not just a smart investment; it's a safety imperative for your employees and the longevity of your warehouse infrastructure.
Benefits of racking protection:
Injury prevention
Protecting your racking uprights reduces the risk of accidents caused by structural damage, which can lead to falling inventory or racking collapse. This minimises the potential for injuries in the workplace.
Cost savings
Racking protection serves as an insurance policy for your investment. By preventing damage to your racking uprights, you can avoid costly repairs or replacements and maintain a more efficient and profitable operation.
Improved efficiency
Undamaged racking systems function optimally. Protecting your uprights ensures that your storage capacity remains intact, promoting efficient organisation and accessibility.
Types of racking protection:
Rack guards
Rack guards are sturdy, upright-mounted protectors that shield racking uprights from impacts. Our Protect-It rack guards are available in a range of sizes, and easily clip onto most racking makes.
Post protectors
These are designed to safeguard the base of the racking uprights. They are often used to protect against damage caused by forklifts and other heavy equipment. Our Protect-It Maxi guards offer a unique patented modular design makes Protect it MAXI expandable to fit an infinite combination of sizes and shapes.
End-of-aisle protectors
Placed at the ends of rack aisles, these protectors serve as a barrier to reduce the risk of forklifts colliding with racking uprights during turns or manoeuvrers.
Bollards
These free-standing or surface-mounted protective posts are placed at strategic locations within the warehouse to shield racking uprights and other critical areas from potential impacts.
Installation and maintenance
Proper installation is essential for the effectiveness of your racking protection.
Proper installation is essential for the effectiveness of your racking protection.
Ensure that installation is carried out by experienced professionals or in accordance with manufacturer guidelines. Regular inspections and maintenance are also necessary to check for any damage to the protectors themselves and to ensure they are functioning correctly.
Protecting your racking uprights is a wise investment in both the safety of your employees and the long-term efficiency of your warehouse operations. By implementing racking protection measures, you not only prevent accidents and reduce maintenance costs but also extend the lifespan of your racking system. From rack guards to post protectors and end-of-aisle protectors, we offer various options available to suit your specific needs.
Contact a member of our expert team to help you protect your warehouse racking.
Distributor vs. Manufacturer: Where should you buy your pallet racking?
When it comes to buying pallet racking or industrial shelving for your business, one of the key decisions you’ll need to make is where to buy it from – directly from a manufacturer or go through a distributor. While some businesses consider buying directly from a manufacturer, working with a distributor like Stamina Storage Systems offers far more advantages, including expert guidance, superior support, and a broader range of solutions tailored to your needs. In this blog we explore Distributor vs manufacturer.
Why choose a pallet racking distributor?
Pallet racking distributors serve as a bridge between manufacturers and end customers, offering a wide range of pallet racking solutions from more various suppliers. Below we have highlighted some key advantages of working with a distributor:
1 - Access to a variety of brands and options
Distributors often work with multiple manufacturers and brands, giving you a wide range of pallet racking options to choose from. This means that whether you are looking for adjustable pallet racking, drive in racking or industrial shelving they can help you select the racking system that best suits your specific requirements in terms of size, weight capacity, and design without being limited to a single brand.
2 - Expert Advice and Guidance
Distributors specialise in warehouse storage solutions are have extensive knowledge of different pallet racking systems and therefore can provide expert advice on selecting the right solution for your warehouse. They can help you navigate the various options from the variety of racking brands available, ensuring that your choice aligns with your storage needs and budget.
3 - Competitive pricing
Buying from a distributor can often result in cost savings. Distributors usually have established relationships with manufacturers and can negotiate competitive prices.
4 - Faster delivery
Unlike manufacturers who often focus on large-scale production runs, distributors keep inventory in stock, allowing for quicker order fulfillment and minimisng downtime.
5 - Convenience
Dealing with a distributor simplifies the procurement process, as they can handle the whole project management from sourcing, shipping, and logistics so you can focus on managing your warehouse effectively.
6 - Single-point accountability
When you purchase from a distributor, you have a single point of contact for all your pallet racking needs.
7 - Added services and accessories
Distributors often provide additional services, such as racking inspections, layout designs, and compliance assistance. They can also supply accessories like rack protection, shelves, and wire mesh decking to further enhance the functionality of your racking system.
8 - Customer support
From consultation and warehouse design to installation and maintenance, distributors offer a full range of services that manufacturers typically do not provide. Usually smaller businesses, they offer easier access to support and are readily available to assist with any issues or questions you may have regarding your pallet racking including the design and planning, installation and maintenance. They may also have flexible payment plans, and offer buy backs on any existing racking.
9 - Local Knowledge
Local distributors have a good understanding of your region’s specific needs and regulations, ensuring that the pallet racking systems you purchase are compliant with local safety and building codes.
Limitations of buying pallet racking directly from a manufacturer
While manufacturers produce the racking systems, they often lack the customer-centric services that distributors provide. Some drawbacks of working directly with a manufacturer include:
- Longer lead times – Manufacturers often focus on bulk production, which can mean extended wait times for your order
- Limited availability – Many manufacturers prioritise large corporate clients and may require high minimum order quantities.
- Less personalised support – Manufacturers typically do not offer the same level of consultation, installation assistance, or post-purchase support as distributors.
Choosing a distributor over a manufacturer ensures that you receive not just the right pallet racking system but also the expert guidance and ongoing support that keeps your warehouse running efficiently. Whether you need a quick turnaround, custom solutions, or professional advice, a distributor offers far more value than buying direct.
Here at Stamina Storage Systems we provide high-quality pallet racking solutions from top manufacturers while delivering the expertise, support, and service you need. Contact us today to find the perfect storage solution for your warehouse!