This Racking Inspection & Damage Reporting SOP (Safe Operating Procedure) sets out how to visually inspect pallet racking, shelving and storage systems for damage, classify what you find, report it and isolate damaged or unstable bays straight away. It covers preparing with the layout and previous records, checking uprights, beams, clips, bracing, base plates, SWL signs and stock placement, green, amber and red damage ratings, photographing damage and barricading bays. It's written by WHS specialists, aligned to Australian WHS legislation, and fully editable in Microsoft Word.
Who it's for
Warehouses and distribution centres
Manufacturers with storage areas
Hardware and retail stores with pallet racking
Cold stores and food distributors
Third-party logistics providers
Warehouse supervisors and safety representatives
Use it to
Train and induct workers in exactly how you expect the task to be done
Keep a clear reference at the machine, in the vehicle or on site
Record competency with the built-in sign-off
Show clients, insurers and auditors your safe work methods are written down
What this SOP covers
Racking collapse from undetected or unreported damage
Falling stock, beams or components from a damaged bay
Overloading from missing or illegible SWL signage
Bent, dislodged or unsecured beams, uprights or bracing
Being struck or caught between racking and stock during inspection
Slips, trips and falls from stock and packaging
Cuts from sharp edges, damaged mesh or corroded metal
What's included
8 pre-operational checks, from training and the racking layout to previous records, formal inspection requirements, inspection gear, clear aisles, lighting and barricade materials
A 10-step operating procedure covering systematic checks of uprights, beams, clips, bracing, base plates, SWL signs, stock placement and protectors, damage ratings and reporting
Isolation controls for unloading where safe and barricading damaged bays out of service until assessed or repaired
5 shutdown, housekeeping and post-operation steps
Emergency actions for imminent or actual racking collapse
PPE checklist and a list of related documents
Competency acknowledgement and worker sign-off
Space for your logo, SOP number, version and review dates
Why use this template
Saves hours compared with writing an SOP from a blank page
Written as clear, numbered steps that workers can follow on the job
Fully editable, so you can match it to your equipment, site and how your team works
The competency sign-off gives you a training record from day one
How it works
Buy online and download straight away. You'll also get an email with your link.
Add your logo, company name, SOP number and dates.
Check it suits your equipment and site, and edit anything you need to.
Train your workers and have them sign the competency acknowledgement.
Need more than one SOP?
This SOP is also included in the Ultimate Transport & Warehousing SOP Bundle. At $197 for the whole bundle, it works out much cheaper than buying SOPs one at a time.
Common questions
Does it use a damage rating system?
Yes. Damage is classified as green (minor, monitor), amber (moderate, repair promptly) or red (severe), with amber and red reported to the supervisor immediately.
Can workers repair damaged racking?
No. Repairs must only be done by a qualified racking installer or engineer. Workers isolate the bay and report it.
Does it replace a formal racking inspection?
No. The routine checks sit alongside, and don't replace, a formal inspection of the pallet racking.
Can I change it?
Yes. It's a Microsoft Word file, so you can add, remove or change any step, check or hazard, and add your own logo and details.
Does it suit my state?
Yes. It's written to the model WHS laws and suits all states and territories, including Victoria under the OHS Act and Regulations.
What if it doesn't suit my work?
You're covered by our 30-day money-back guarantee if it isn't fit for purpose.
