The Solution for Racking Safety: Racking Inspections for Oil Rigs

You might be wondering why we’re talking about offshore racking safety. Earlier this week, our team received an enquiry about the inspection requirements for racking systems on an offshore oil rig. That single question sparked a flurry of conversations here at Nene Warehouse Solutions – raising a key issue that’s rarely discussed: how do you maintain storage equipment on an offshore platform?

As it turns out, the answer is more complex than it first appears. Offshore platforms operate under strict security procedures and rigid health and safety protocols. These, combined with the logistical challenges of accessing offshore locations, make traditional expert racking inspections – typically conducted by SEMA-approved Racking Inspectors (SARIs) – difficult, if not impractical.

With around 260 offshore oil and gas platforms in UK waters, located up to 500km from the mainland, many of which utilise some form of storage racking, the question becomes essential: how can you guarantee racking safety in these remote, high-risk environments?

Whether you operate on land or offshore, racking safety is non-negotiable. In warehousing and logistics, storage systems are critical infrastructure. When properly maintained, they support productivity and safety. When neglected, they become serious hazards.

Understanding Racking Inspection Requirements

Under the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER) 1998, pallet racking is legally classed as work equipment. That means it must be inspected and maintained regularly. The HSE recommends at least one annual inspection by a qualified inspector, alongside more frequent internal reviews.

For employers, this is not just a legal responsibility but a moral obligation. The safety and integrity of your racking systems must be continuously monitored – even in difficult environments like offshore platforms.

So, what can operators do when calling in a inspector is not viable due to remoteness or access restrictions? That’s where PRRS comes in.

Internal Racking Inspection: What is PRRS?

PRRS stands for Person Responsible for Racking Safety. This role is defined in the HSE’s HSG76 guidance and by SEMA. The PRRS is typically an in-house staff member trained to carry out regular racking checks, report issues and coordinate safety compliance.

This model is ideal for offshore platforms, where bringing in external inspectors is often difficult or delayed. By appointing and training a PRRS internally, operators can maintain inspection routines, ensure system integrity and comply with all relevant regulations.

For the PRRS system to work effectively, your organisation must have documented procedures in place. This includes:

• A system for reporting damage, wear and potential hazards

• A process for classifying the severity of damage

• Clear guidance on corrective actions and timeframes for repairs

• A log of inspections, maintenance and resolutions

Racking Inspection Training with Nene

To confidently carry out this role, your PRRS must receive dedicated training in rack safety awareness and inspection best practices. That includes understanding equipment structure, recognising common damage types and implementing preventative measures.

At Nene Warehouse Solutions, we provide comprehensive Racking Safety Inspection Training for in-house teams. Our course includes:

• Health and safety fundamentals

• SEMA guidance and inspection standards

• Theory and practical sessions

• Visual assessment techniques

• How to recognise, report and prevent damage

• Load signage awareness

• Inspection workflows and record keeping

Training is delivered using a mock warehouse setup to simulate real inspection environments, and includes final review sessions with Q&A to ensure clarity.

Using the Latest Racking Inspection Technology

At Nene, we’re always looking for ways to simplify safety and make it more accessible. That’s why we’ve partnered with Econform – the award-winning racking inspection software designed to streamline warehouse safety and compliance.

Econform provides complete visibility across your estate with digital inspection records, real-time analytics, and synced reporting between devices. Whether you’re managing one site or multiple locations, Econform puts control in your hands.

For offshore PRRS personnel, Econform’s integrated online rack awareness training is particularly valuable. It allows them to refresh their knowledge on demand, from any location, ensuring they stay compliant and confident even in remote environments.

Speak to the Experts

Offshore racking safety is no less important than in any other sector. In fact, with the added challenges of isolation and logistics, it requires even greater attention to detail.

At Nene Warehouse Solutions, we carry out a certified and competent person inspections for clients across every industry – from large distribution centres and freezers to retail, healthcare, education and finance. Our training and consultancy services are informed by this wide-reaching expertise.

Whether you’re looking to train a new PRRS, optimise your internal inspection process or adopt smarter inspection technology like Econform, our team is here to help.

To book your racking inspection training, speak to our experts or find out more about racking safety solutions, contact us today.