THE TWO hour online course has been designed for anyone responsible for workplace safety and will cover the UK framework governing racking, the legal responsibilities that come with it, and practical steps businesses can take to stay safe and compliant.

The course launches as warehouse operations come under increasing scrutiny from regulators. Warehouses commonly appoint racking suppliers, installers and inspectors, and train employees as Person Responsible for Racking Safety (PRRS) to carry out regular visual inspections. But it is ultimately the decisions of senior management teams that come under scrutiny when something goes wrong, according to SEMA.

The consequences of a racking failure can be severe, ranging from lost stock and operational shutdowns to serious injury. If an accident does occur, the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) can issue substantial fines, pursue prosecution, and in the most serious cases, prison sentences.

Until now, there has been no dedicated training setting out the specific responsibilities of warehouse owners, directors and managers in relation to racking safety.

SEMA’s Duty Holders course is aimed at business owners, company directors, senior managers and those responsible for workplace safety. It will provide attendees with practical knowledge of risk assessments, inspections and racking protection. It will also explain the role of the PRRS, why acting on inspection reports isn’t optional, and why ignoring recommendations can carry serious legal consequences.

SEMA president Nick Bettely, says: “Until now, there has been very little support for warehouse directors, operational and compliance managers on how to ensure racking is safe and compliant. Yet, if something did go wrong with the racking and it was found that your business had failed to conduct the required inspections or act on reports of damage, you will be responsible for any action taken against the business. 

 “This racking Duty Holders course aims to provide senior management teams with the knowledge they need to meet legal requirements.”