Pallet racking may look sturdy, but when used equipment is involved, sometimes unseen risks can escalate rapidly. As the UK’s storage experts, Advanced Handling & Storage Ltd know that safety is not negotiable.
If you are considering second hand pallet racking you need to be certain it meets every regulatory and industry standard that protects your staff and your bottom line.
In the UK most racking safety guidance is advisory rather than statutory. However, following it will effectively satisfy legal duties under key legislation including the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, PUWER (Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998) and HSG 76 Warehousing and Storage from HSE.
If your racking project falls under construction activities it may also come under CDM 2015 (Construction Design & Management Regulations 2015), where you as the client must ensure safe planning and installation.
Used racking must have originally been designed to comply with recognised structural design codes such as SEMA Design Codes or European standard EN 15512. These define load capacities, structural strength, safety factors and proper testing procedures. A supplier who cannot provide this assurance is a serious risk.
SEMA’s SEIRS (Installers Registration Scheme) ensures that installers are trained to install racking systems correctly, following both manufacturer instructions and HSG 76’s requirements that racking is erected on sound level floors with correct aisle widths. A SEIRS CSCS card often demonstrates installer competence.
SEMA and HSE recommend a continuous three-tier inspection approach:
SEMA uses a traffic-light colour-coded system to assess damage: Green = acceptable, Amber = needs repair, Red = immediate isolation. Specific tolerances exist, such as maximum upright bend of 3 mm front-to-back and 5 mm side-to-side, and a frame brace bend limit of 10 mm. These precise thresholds ensure systematic, consistent risk management.
Before using used racking a full risk assessment must be conducted. SEMA guidance and HSG 76 recommend installing clear load notices, training staff on safe loading, damage recognition, and safe use, and making sure protective accessories, e.g. post protectors are in place in high-impact zones.
What legal regulations cover used pallet racking in the UK?
Used pallet racking must comply with Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, PUWER 1998, and HSG 76 Warehousing and Storage for best practice.
Do I need a risk assessment before using second-hand racking?
Yes. A proper risk assessment is essential. It helps identify hazards, informs installation decisions, and is critical when integrating used racking.
How often should used pallet racking be inspected?
Follow a three-tier inspection regime: daily immediate checks, weekly or risk-based regular inspections, and at least annual expert inspections by a SARI or qualified inspector.
What design code should used racking comply with?
Used racking should meet SEMA Design Codes or the European standard EN 15512 to ensure it was built for structural safety.
What happens if I install racking incorrectly?
Incorrect installation increases collapse risk, voids safety compliance, and could lead to prosecution, insurance issues and catastrophic injuries. Use SEIRS-accredited installers to ensure safety.
At Advanced Handling & Storage Ltd we combine safety with value. We ensure all used pallet racking we supply:
Let us help you benefit from cost-efficient used racking without compromising safety.
Ensure your used pallet racking is safe, compliant and future-proof. Contact Advanced Handling & Storage Ltd today for expert advice, risk assessments, SEIRS-accredited installation and full inspection services. Protect your workforce, avoid regulatory penalties and secure your storage operations.
