The dangers of ignoring safe racking installations
When you work with an industry-expert racking supplier or manufacturer, says SEMA, they will design a storage system that minimises stock damage, enhances stock flow, improves productivity and creates a safe working space.
GET THIS right and it will boost operational efficiency and increase profitability. But meeting these requirements is only possible if the installation work meets the manufacturer’s specifications.
When ordering racking, you naturally assume racking suppliers uses installers who are trained for the job. While some do have their own in-house teams, it’s not uncommon for suppliers to subcontract the installation work, leaving you exposed with no quality assurances on their work.
The problem is, there’s no required standard that racking installers should meet. In reality, a lot of them still ‘learn on the job’ with no formal training. Take a look at the HSE’s HSG76 Warehousing and Storage: A Guide to Health and Safety – which relates to the warehouse environment and racking systems – and it only asks that racking ‘be installed by competent people in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.’
So how do you know your installer’s had the correct training for the job? It’s an important question, especially when you realise that, as the warehouse owner or manager, you’re responsible for your racking’s safety – this includes the installation work. To meet this requirement, ask whether they’ve attended a course which trains on industry standards and correct installation methods. One example is the SEIRS initiative. Referenced in HSG76, this two-part training course has been developed to provide an industry benchmark for racking installers.
The SEIRS Foundation course instructs installers on racking installation health and safety standards. On completion, installers receive a SEIRS Trainee card, which allows them to develop their on-site skills under supervision. After six months, the installer completes their qualification by attending the SEIRS Diploma. This course combines theoretical learning on racking installations with practical instruction. Installers receive their full SEIRS card after passing a racking installation assessment. To ensure they maintain their standards, installers must complete a SEIRS Refresher every five years.
