What Is a SEMA Approved Rack Inspector
What Is a SARI?
Have you heard of SEMA Approved Rack Inspectors but not sure what is a SARI?
SEMA advocates a rigorous approach to rack inspection and repair through a regime of daily, weekly, and annual (expert) inspections. The main reasons for an inspection are to check the condition of the equipment and ensure it complies with legal requirements. It will also verify the correct installation of the equipment.
What is a SEMA Approved Rack Inspector?
SEMA Approved Inspectors are highly qualified professionals. Their primary role is to complete SEMA's quality circle through racking and storage systems inspections at end-users' premises. They assess racking and storage conditions, provide reports and recommendations, ensuring safe working environments.
The SEMA Approved Racking Inspector Qualification is for individuals who inspect storage equipment as a significant part of their duties. To achieve the required standard, they must successfully pass an intensive three-day training course, written examination and practical assessment. The qualified inspector must also commit to a programme of on-going CPD (Continuous Professional Development) to maintain the qualification.
What is a SARI Inspection?
It is worth noting that there are two very different types of inspection available. A damage only inspection provides a list of damaged items and their location. Whereas the SARI inspection goes much further to include suitability and compatibility of the equipment, rack configuration type and manufacturer and a general identification of components. It will also check that the Load Notice specifically applies to the rack that it’s fixed to, often a problem if racking is moved or altered.
The SARI report will classify any damage using a traffic light system to indicate actions required and over what timescale:
Red risk areas identify a high level of damage and racking should be immediately offloaded and put out of use.
An Amber risk indicates where damage is sufficiently severe to warrant remedial work but does not require immediate offloading. Once the pallet positions in this area are emptied, they should not be refilled until the repairs are carried out. If repairs are not affected in four weeks, then an Amber risk item automatically becomes a Red risk item.
Green areas are those where damage falls within SEMA limits but is recorded for further consideration at the next inspection. Green does not mean the damage is acceptable and should not be ignored.
If your racking system has been supplied by a SEMA Member Company they should also have approved SARI inspectors who can provide the full service.
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