What are OSHA requirements for warehouse rack inspections?
Quick Answer
OSHA requires employers to keep pallet racks “safe for the intended load” under the General Duty Clause and 29 CFR 1910.176(b). That means inspecting racks regularly, documenting damage, correcting hazards promptly, and bringing in a qualified person after any impact, redesign, or seismic event. Most facilities follow ANSI/RMI MH16.1: at least one detailed, expert inspection per year.
Disclaimer: The information on this page is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or regulatory advice. While we strive for accuracy, OSHA rules and enforcement guidance can change — you should confirm current requirements and interpretations directly with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) or consult a qualified safety professional or attorney to ensure compliance and avoid penalties.
Detailed Answer
Unlike forklifts or cranes, pallet racks have no fixed OSHA timetable—but the agency can cite you for unsafe storage under 29 CFR 1910.176(b) and the General Duty Clause. To prove due diligence, OSHA expects a written pallet rack inspection program that:
1) Assigns a “competent person” to perform routine visual checks (often weekly)
2) Documents each location, type, and severity of damage
3) Locks out or unloads any rack that exceeds allowable deflection or has missing components
4)Calls in a “qualified” rack professional after a collision, load change, reconfiguration, or seismic event.
ANSI/RMI MH16.1, the industry standard OSHA references during investigations, adds that a comprehensive, expert audit should occur at least annually and that repaired or replaced parts must match the original manufacturer’s specifications.
Warehouse Cubed simplifies compliance by pairing warehouse safety audits with detailed rack inspections and repair services. Our veteran-led team assesses your situation and supplies turnkey remediation, whether that’s engineered pallet rack repair kits, replacement components from Interlake Mecalux or North American Steel, or protective guarding to prevent repeat hits. The result is a safer facility, lower risk of costly OSHA fines, and peace of mind that your storage systems meet today’s warehouse safety standards while supporting future growth.