Safety inspections can be carried out across multiples of racking and shelving types. Companies often have several different storage systems that can all easily be checked during one visit by our safety engineers. Action Handling recently carried out an annual inspection of stockroom shelving at a luxury handbag designer’s flagship store in central London. The company then realised that we also were able to extend the inspection service out to their on-site access equipment as well.

Whilst customers see immaculate shop displays, the stockroom behind the scenes is a high-activity working environment. Staff are required to access stock shelving at height on a daily basis using step ladders and kick step stools, making regular inspection essential for safety purposes.

Why inspections matter
Under the Working at Height Regulations 2005, employers must ensure work at height is properly planned and that equipment is suitable and inspected. The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER) also require shelving, racking, ladders and access equipment to be maintained in safe working order. For safety managers, this is about more than just compliance — it’s about demonstrating control, reducing the risks and protecting the staff from accident or injury.

Our inspection covered:
Stockroom shelving bays and structural integrity.
Beam condition, bracing and floor fixings.
Load notice visibility and compliance.
Step ladders and access ladders.
Kick step stools, including sprung-loaded castors and stability.
General safe use and housekeeping.

Outcome:
We identified minor wear and impact damage typical in busy retail environments and provided clear recommendations to prevent escalation. A full written report was issued to support audit trails and internal compliance records.

Storeroom shelving

Kick steps

Maintenance stepladder