Post‑Installation Pallet Racking Inspections Under PUWER: Our Commitment to Your Safety
At SHS Racking Inspections, we regularly support businesses across the UK who are installing new pallet racking or reconfiguring existing systems. One of the most common misunderstandings we see is the belief that once the installers finish, the racking is automatically ready for use. Under UK law, that isn’t the case.
A post‑installation inspection is a legal requirement under the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER). As a SEMA Approved Racking Inspector (SARI), we ensure your new racking is safe, compliant, and ready for operation from day
Why PUWER Applies to Newly Installed Racking
PUWER covers all work equipment used in a workplace — and pallet racking is no exception. Once installed, your racking becomes part of your operational infrastructure, meaning you must ensure it is:
- Safe to use
- Installed correctly
- Suitable for the loads and environment
- Maintained in a safe condition
- Inspected by a competent person
A post‑installation inspection is the first step in meeting these obligations.
Why a Post‑Installation Inspection Matters
Even with professional installers, issues can occur during or immediately after installation. We frequently identify:
- Incorrect beam heights
- Missing or inaccurate load notices
- Misaligned frames
- Missing floor fixings
- Components that don’t match the design specification
- Damage caused by other contractors on site
PUWER Requirements You Must Meet
Regulation 4 — Suitability of Work Equipment
We verify that your racking is suitable for the loads, environment, and operational demands of your site.
Regulation 5 — Maintenance
A post‑installation inspection ensures defects are identified before the racking is used, supporting safe ongoing maintenance.
Regulation 6 — Inspection
PUWER requires inspection:
- After installation
- After assembly at a new site
- After exceptional circumstances
Our post‑installation inspection fulfils this legal requirement.
Regulation 9 — Training and Information
We check that load notices are accurate and correctly positioned, ensuring your team has the information they need to use the system safely.
Why Choose SHS Racking Inspections
As a SEMA Approved Racking Inspector (SARI), we provide:
- Independent, expert assessment
- Full compliance with HSE and SEMA guidance
- Clear, actionable reporting
- Accurate risk categorisation
- Professional sign‑off for new installations
Our inspections give you confidence that your racking is safe, compliant, and ready for operational use.
What Our Post‑Installation Inspection Includes
We carry out a detailed assessment covering:
- Verification against design drawings
- Frame alignment and plumb tolerances
- Correct installation of beams, locking pins, and bracing
- Floor fixings and baseplate suitability
- Load notice accuracy
- Component compatibility
- Identification of damage or defects
You receive a clear, professional report confirming the condition and compliance of your new racking.
Protecting Your Business From Day One
Skipping a post‑installation inspection can expose your business to:
- PUWER non‑compliance
- Unsafe loading conditions
- Increased risk of collapse
- Insurance complications
- Liability in the event of an accident
Our inspection ensures your new racking is safe before it enters service — protecting your people, your stock, and your operation.
Book Your Post‑Installation Inspection
If you’ve recently had racking installed — or are planning a new installation — we’re ready to support you.