Racking Inspections & Compliance
With the release of AS 4084.2:2023, several important changes and clarifications have been introduced regarding the operation, maintenance, and inspection of steel storage racking systems.
Key requirements and expectations now include:
- Selective pallet racking systems are expected to undergo formal inspections at intervals not exceeding 12 months.
- Formal inspections should be undertaken by a competent person with appropriate knowledge and experience in pallet racking systems and damage assessment.
- Inspection findings, maintenance actions, repairs, and ongoing safety records must be maintained by the owner/operator of the racking system.
- Greater emphasis is now placed on documented inspection procedures, risk management, and ongoing system integrity.
If you have previously relied solely on informal in-house inspections, it is important to review your current practices against the updated standard requirements and ensure your compliance processes remain appropriate and adequately documented.
Our inspections are conducted in alignment with:
- AS 4084.2:2023 — Steel Storage Racking – Operation & Maintenance
- Relevant New Zealand seismic and building code requirements
SEMA Code of Practice — The Use of Static Racking Damage Evaluation - Industry best practice for warehouse safety and operational risk management
Employers and site operators also have an obligation to ensure staff are provided with the information, training, and operational guidance necessary to use storage systems safely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions regarding pallet racking safety, inspection requirements, and compliance obligations. Regular inspections help maintain a safe, compliant, and efficient warehouse environment.
Do we need to have our racking inspected?
Yes. Under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 (HSWA), businesses have a duty to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, that workers and others are not exposed to health and safety risks.
Pallet racking is considered a critical structural storage system within a warehouse environment. Damaged or overloaded racking can create serious risks including collapse, falling objects, product damage, and injury to personnel.
Regular inspections are an important part of demonstrating that these risks are being actively identified, monitored, and managed.
Should we have our racking checked after an earthquake?
Yes. Even relatively minor seismic events can affect pallet racking systems, anchors, beam connections, bracing, floor fixings, and stored product stability.
Following any noticeable earthquake event, it is recommended that racking systems are visually assessed for:
- Movement or distortion
- Dislodged beams or safety locks
- Anchor or baseplate damage
- Leaning frames
- Product displacement or instability
Where damage or uncertainty exists, a formal post-earthquake inspection should be undertaken before the system continues normal operation.
How often should pallet racking be inspected?
Industry standards and best practice guidelines recommend that pallet racking systems undergo formal inspection at intervals not exceeding 12 months.
In addition to formal annual inspections, warehouse operators should also implement:
- Regular in-house visual checks
- Immediate reporting of impact damage
- Ongoing monitoring of load compliance
- Prompt repair or isolation of damaged components
High-traffic or high-risk environments may require more frequent inspection intervals depending on operational conditions.
Who can carry out a formal racking inspection?
Formal inspections should be carried out by a competent person with appropriate knowledge and experience in pallet racking systems, damage assessment, and relevant industry standards such as AS 4084.2:2023.
Competency includes understanding:
- Structural behaviour of racking systems
- Damage classification and risk assessment
- Manufacturer tolerances and limitations
- Seismic considerations
- Safe operational practices
What standards apply to pallet racking inspections?
Our inspections are conducted in alignment with:
- AS 4084.2:2023 — Steel Storage Racking – Operation & Maintenance
- Relevant New Zealand Building Code and seismic requirements
- SEMA Damage Evaluation Guidelines
- Industry best practice for warehouse safety and compliance
What happens if damaged racking is identified?
Damaged racking is typically classified using a traffic-light risk system:
- Green — Monitor / low risk
- Amber — Requires repair within a defined timeframe
- Red — Serious risk requiring immediate action or unloading
A detailed report is provided outlining findings, risk levels, and recommended corrective actions.
Not sure if your storage systems are compliant?
Run a quick self-assessment to identify potential safety risks.