How do you check shelving remains suitable as stock changes?

Recheck shelving whenever stock profiles, loading patterns, access methods or surrounding conditions change. Compare current use with the system information, examine each component, and record any action needed.

1. Confirm what has changed

Start by recording the differences since the shelving was installed or last reviewed. Consider changes to:

• Stock weight, size, shape and packaging.
• Load distribution across each shelf.
• Storage height and the position of heavier items.
• Picking equipment, access routes and working methods.
• Aisle arrangements, nearby work areas and other equipment.
• Temperature, moisture, impact risks or other site conditions.

A change may affect suitability even when the shelving looks undamaged. A new product could place more weight in one area or require awkward handling.

2. Check the available system information

Locate the original drawings, specifications, supplier information and any stated shelf capacities. Use these records to compare the shelving with its present use.

Check that the information relates to the installed arrangement. Changes to shelf levels, bays, supports or accessories may alter how loads are carried.

Do not rely on appearance alone. Shelving that accepts a load physically may still be unsuitable if the load arrangement differs from the intended use.

Keep an updated record of shelf levels, stock types and any approved changes. This gives future inspections a clear point of comparison.

3. Inspect the structure and fittings

Look for bent, cracked, loose, corroded or missing parts. Examine uprights, beams, shelves, braces, feet, fixings and connections.

Check for impact marks from handling equipment and signs that components have moved from their original position. Pay attention to damage around corners, entrances and busy picking areas.

Also check that shelves remain level, supports remain seated and components match the installed arrangement. Do not improvise repairs or replace parts with items of unknown suitability.

Remove or isolate affected areas from use where damage could make storage unsafe. Record the location, type and apparent severity of each issue.

4. Review how people access stock

Stock may remain within stated limits but become unsuitable if access creates unsafe reaching, lifting or movement.

Review the distance between shelving and work areas. Check that stored goods do not obstruct routes, reduce visibility or force people into awkward positions.

Consider the handling method for heavier, longer or irregular items. Place stock where it can be accessed without overloading a shelf or disturbing adjacent goods.

Changes to picking patterns can also create new impact risks. A revised layout should preserve clear access and protect shelving from avoidable contact.

5. Check the surrounding layout

Examine whether nearby machinery, partitions, doors, workstations or stored materials now restrict the shelving. A change elsewhere can affect access and safe use.

In offices, review shelving beside desks, walkways and shared work areas. In warehouses and industrial premises, review interactions with handling routes and production activity.

Keep the shelving arrangement consistent with the way the room operates. If the existing layout no longer supports the workflow, a review may identify a safer arrangement.

When to arrange a formal review

Arrange a further assessment after significant stock changes, alterations to the shelving, a layout change or an impact incident.

A site meeting and survey can examine the installed system, stock and working conditions together. We can then prepare written proposals and working drawings where changes require planning.

Spartan Direct also provides racking inspections and aftercare. This gives you a documented basis for deciding whether to retain the arrangement, adjust it or consider different storage equipment.

For sites in the West Midlands, our review can cover the storage area and its relationship with the wider workplace. The aim is to keep capacity, access and protection aligned with current use.

Keep the decision traceable

Record the inspection date, areas checked, stock assumptions, defects found and actions agreed. Update the record after approved alterations or changes in use.

This prevents an old assessment from being treated as current after the shelving or stock has changed. It also helps you explain why a section remains in use or requires attention.