The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER) are critical for businesses and organisations in the UK, as they set out essential guidelines for owning, operating, or controlling work equipment. Whether you own the equipment or your employees use it, PUWER ensures that all machinery and tools in the workplace are safe and suitable for use.
As professionals in workplace safety, we can help you navigate these complex regulations, including the latest UKCA (UK Conformity Assessed) marking requirements. This transition, following Brexit, replaces the EU's CE marking in the UK and affects how new equipment should comply with health and safety regulations.
Here’s a breakdown of what PUWER covers and why professional assistance can make all the difference:
PUWER mandates that equipment provided for use at work must meet specific safety criteria. These include:
These regulations don’t just apply to fixed machinery but also mobile work equipment, power presses, and tools that employees may bring into the workplace.
The definition of work equipment under PUWER is broad and covers everything from machinery and tools to appliances and installations used at work. This includes:
Whether the equipment is owned by the company or rented, it’s crucial that the regulations are adhered to for both safety and compliance.
Since Brexit, the UKCA marking has replaced the CE marking for work equipment sold or used in the UK. This applies to:
If your business uses new machinery, it must now conform to UKCA marking requirements, ensuring it is correctly assessed, marked, and documented before use. This change adds an extra layer of responsibility for businesses, making professional assessments more valuable than ever.
PUWER is comprehensive, and compliance can be daunting without expert guidance. Here's why you should call us for a professional assessment:
Risk Management: We can help identify potential hazards and ensure that your equipment is suitable for its intended use, minimising risks to your employees.
Up-to-Date Compliance: With the new UKCA requirements, our team stays updated on the latest legal changes, ensuring your business complies with both PUWER and other related regulations like LOLER or PPE standards.
Training and Documentation: We provide in-depth training for your staff and maintain all necessary records, ensuring your workplace meets the required safety standards.
Ongoing Support: Beyond the initial assessment, we offer continued support to ensure your equipment remains compliant throughout its lifecycle.
If your business operates work equipment, it’s your responsibility to manage risks, provide proper training, and ensure compliance with PUWER and other relevant regulations. However, achieving this level of compliance is complex. Our expert team can conduct a thorough assessment of your equipment and processes, ensuring you meet the requirements of PUWER, LOLER, and the new UKCA marking standards.
Let us help you stay ahead of the regulations and safeguard your employees. Reach out to us today for a consultation, and we’ll ensure your business is fully compliant and safe.