The cadence
The four inspection levels in AS 4084:2023
| Cadence | Performed by | Documentation |
|---|---|---|
| Daily walk-around | Forklift operators and supervisors | Verbal escalation; informal log |
| Weekly visual | Trained warehouse supervisor | Signed weekly checklist |
| Monthly / quarterly | Designated competent in-house inspector | Internal report with photos |
| Annual external | Independent competent person | Formal AS 4084:2023 report |
Daily
What the daily walk-around really involves
The daily walk-around is the most overlooked layer of the AS 4084 system. It costs nothing, takes ten minutes and catches more impact damage than every other layer combined. Warehouse staff should be trained to scan for obvious problems before pallets start moving each morning.
- Damaged or missing column guards.
- Visible bend in any upright at fork-tip height.
- Beam end-connectors that have lifted out of the upright slots.
- Missing safety pins or beam locks.
- Pallets overhanging the load beam.
- Stock spilled into the aisle.
Annual external
What an external inspector actually does
The annual external inspection is the only level that requires an independent competent person. Expect the inspector to physically measure every upright in the building, photograph all Amber and Red components, check beam connectors, anchor bolts, baseplates and bracing, then deliver a written report with RAG ratings and a recommended action plan.
Heads up
Triggers
Events that override the calendar
Some events demand an immediate inspection, regardless of when the next scheduled visit is due:
- Forklift impact with any rack component.
- Earthquake or significant ground movement.
- Building works adjacent to racking.
- Change of pallet weight or product type stored.
- Re-configuration of beam levels or aisle widths.
- After any racking collapse — site-wide reassessment.