Technical inspection of racking systems – UNI EN 15635

Technical inspection of racking systems according to UNI EN 15635:2009

The inspection of industrial racking systems is an activity, specified by the UNI EN 15635, aimed at maintaining high safety standards in the warehouse. This process allows for verifying the racking systems conditions, their capability of supporting the intended loads, and that the technical documentation required by regulations is complete and up-to-date. Through inspections, it is possible to detect damage or malfunctions and intervene promptly to correct any critical issues, preventing accidents and improving workplace safety. Furthermore, periodic inspection extends the life of the racking systems, helping to maintain high operational efficiency in the warehouse.

The guidelines of the UNI EN 15635:2009 standard regarding the inspection of racking systems

The UNI EN 15635:2009 standard recommends that racking system inspections have to be carried out at least once a year by a qualified expert. The objective is to identify any non-conformities and report the corrective actions necessary to restore safety conditions. The standard aims to reduce the risks present in the warehouse by identifying:

• Risks of structural failure;
• Wear and damage not immediately visible;
• The absence of technical documentation;
• The absence of safety devices;

Periodic technical inspection by an external technician

The UNI EN 15635 standard establishes that the periodic inspection of racking systems must be entrusted to an external technician from an Independent Third-Party Body. The company must also have appointed and trained a PRSES (Person Responsible for Storage Equipment Safety), an internal figure tasked with supervising and coordinating the inspection, maintenance, and safety securing activities of the racking systems. The latter will interface with the external technician and receive a written report containing:

• The as-built layout of the warehouse;
• A damage chart including a mapping of critical issues classified according to the risk levels indicated by the UNI EN 15635 standard;
• A list of corrective actions to be taken to restore the conformity and safety of the affected racking systems;

Periodic inspection procedure

During periodic technical inspections, the critical issues present in the warehouse are analyzed, and solutions for achieving compliance are proposed. The activities include:

• Survey of the existing racking systems, in case the layout is not available;
• Inspection and classification of existing damage;
• Verification of user and maintenance manuals;
• Check of the presence and consistency of load notice boards;
• Verification of the flooring condition;
• Check of aisle consistency in relation to the lifting equipment used;
• Verification of the conformity of the unit loads present in the warehouse and their correct storage;

Drafting of a technical report

Should any non-conformities be found, specific documentation is provided highlighting the racking components that will need to be repaired or replaced.

The technical inspection by Di Massa srl

At the end of the inspection, we will provide you with a series of useful documents to best manage your warehouse, including:

• As-built layout: a technical document that graphically represents and describes in detail the current configuration of the racking systems and warehouse spaces, based on observations and measurements taken during the inspection.
• Graphic chart with damage detection: a visual document that clearly and detailedly represents the warehouse conditions detected during an inspection.
• Technical report: this document outlines all the critical issues that emerged during the inspection and, most importantly, the actions to be taken to address the highlighted criticalities.
• Maintenance quotation: we will propose a tailored maintenance quotation to bring your racking systems back into compliance, providing you with a timely solution for the issues found.

Carrying out a racking system inspection is a long-term investment

Regularly carrying out racking inspections is a strategic investment for the company. Not only does it protect employees and corporate assets, but it also improves productivity and reduces the risk of accidents. Relying on qualified inspectors, training the PRSES, and complying with regulations is the key to building a safe, efficient, and long-lasting logistics system.

Contact us

Discover our racking system technical inspection service! Contact us or fill out our form; our specialized technicians will be at your disposal for any doubts or needs!

FAQ – Frequently asked questions about the technical inspection of racking systems

1. How often should the technical inspection of industrial racking systems be performed?

According to the UNI EN 15635 standard, the inspection must be carried out at least once a year by a qualified technician.

2. Why is it important to carry out periodic inspections of racking systems?

To ensure the safety of warehouse operators and stored goods, and to comply with regulatory guidelines.

3. Who can perform the technical inspection?

The periodic inspection of racking systems must be entrusted to an external technician from an Independent Third-Party Body.

4. What happens if serious non-conformities are found?

Serious criticalities are reported immediately in order to secure the affected area.

5. What documents are provided at the end of the inspection?

The as-built layout of the warehouse, a graphic chart detecting and locating any damage, a technical report detailing any critical issues that emerged, and the corrective actions to be taken.

6. What happens at the end of the technical inspection?

If no critical issues are detected during the inspection, the conformity of the storage equipment will be validated. Otherwise, it will be necessary to apply the indicated corrective actions.