Racking inspection: the essentials in brief

  • A racking inspection is a type of inspection that checks the safety and integrity of racking. 
  • It must ensure that the racking can withstand the loads to which it is subjected and that it is not damaged or deformed.
  • It also checks that the shelving has been installed in accordance with applicable safety regulations and standards and that it is in good condition.
  • After the inspection, any defects are recorded and a recommendation is made for repair or replacement of the shelving, if necessary.

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Why is there a need for a shelf audit?

There are several reasons why a racking inspection should be performed:

  1. Safety of workers: Racking that is not properly installed or maintained can be unstable and fall over, causing injury or even death. 
  2. Protection from damage: Racking that is not properly installed or maintained can also cause damage to cargo or the building, especially if it falls over. 
  3. Compliance with regulations and standards: Racking must be installed in accordance with certain safety regulations and standards. A racking inspection is designed to ensure that racking complies with applicable regulations.
  4. Reduction of costs: A regular racking inspection can help identify and correct potential problems early, before they lead to greater and more costly damage. Regular inspection of racking can save costs in the long run.

Which companies should be concerned with shelf auditing?

Companies that use racking to store goods or equipment should be concerned with racking inspection. This includes a variety of businesses, including:

  1. Warehouse and shipping companies: Companies that operate warehouses and store goods should inspect their shelving regularly. 
  2. Retail stores: Retail stores use shelving to display and store goods. They should check their shelves regularly.
  3. Production businesses: Production businesses use shelving to store tools, equipment, and materials. 
  4. Construction businesses: Construction businesses use shelving to store materials and equipment. Again, shelving should be checked regularly.
  5. Archives and Libraries:Archives and libraries use shelving to store documents, books and other valuable items. The regular inspection of the shelves is also important here.

Who in the company should deal with this?

The person who should be involved with shelf auditing varies depending on the size and type of company. In some smaller companies, the responsibility for shelf auditing may rest with a single person, such as management or safety officers. In larger companies, the task may be divided among several people.

What advantages/benefits do I have?

A rack audit can provide many benefits and advantages, including:

  1. Increasing safety: A regular rack audit can help identify and eliminate potential hazards before they can lead to injuries or accidents. This increases the safety of workers as well as customers.
  2. Preventing damage: A rack inspection can help prevent damage to racks, goods or buildings. By identifying and addressing potential problems early, you can ensure that racking can withstand the stresses.
  3. Compliance with regulations and standards:A racking audit ensures compliance with applicable safety regulations and standards. 
  4. Preservation of property: A regular rack inspection can help extend the life of the racks and improve their condition. 
  5. Increasing efficiency:A proper rack inspection can help increase efficiency in loading and unloading goods and avoid unnecessary delays. This saves time and money.

How does SBIS support?

The SBIS external certified racking inspector is your independent point of contact for racking safety issues. He carries out an inspection adapted to the operational conditions and geared to the particular hazards. This forms an important proof for the operator with regard to the fulfillment of the legal requirements.

To disrupt your operations as little as possible through our deployment, we are highly flexible. The rack inspection/rack testing is carried out during ongoing operations, insofar as safety regulations permit:

  • Optical inspection of the storage facility by a certified racking inspector
  • Visual inspection of the racking components for visible damage and damage assessment in accordance with DIN EN 15635
  • Matching the load warnings with the racking system and the existing structure
  • Recording of the racking damage and image documentation
  • Creation of an inspection report

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