Why PUWER Inspections Matter for Businesses in Swadlincote

Swadlincote is a town located in South Derbyshire, England, known historically for its significant role in the region’s industrial development. Originally a small settlement, Swadlincote grew rapidly during the 18th and 19th centuries due to the expansion of coal mining and pottery industries. Its proximity to coal reserves and clay deposits made it an ideal location for these industries to flourish, which in turn supported the growth of a working-class community centered around these trades. Today, Swadlincote retains much of its industrial heritage, with several sites and museums dedicated to preserving its past.

One of the most notable industries in Swadlincote has been pottery and ceramics. The town was part of the larger English Midlands pottery district and became known for producing earthenware and stoneware products. Several famous pottery firms operated in Swadlincote, creating a wide range of household items, decorative ceramics, and industrial ceramics. This industry thrived thanks to the availability of raw materials such as clay and coal for firing kilns. While the prominence of pottery has declined since the mid-20th century, it remains a key part of the town’s identity and heritage.

In addition to pottery, coal mining played a crucial role in shaping Swadlincote’s industrial landscape. The town was situated near rich coal seams, leading to numerous coal mines operating throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries. Coal mining not only provided local employment but also supported related industries like brick-making and metalworking. As the demand for coal declined post-World War II, many mines closed, prompting economic shifts in the area. Today, Swadlincote’s economy has diversified, including light manufacturing, retail, and service industries, but the legacy of its industrial roots remains visible in the town’s character and community.

Swadlincote is surrounded by towns and villages that developed largely because of coal mining and clay-based industries. Places such as Church Gresley, Woodville, and Newhall expanded during the 19th century as coal seams were worked and local clay was used for brick, tile, and pottery production. These industries provided employment for thousands of people and helped shape the landscape and settlement patterns of the area.

Villages including Hartshorne, Ticknall, and Blackfordby combined industrial activity with farming. Brickworks, lime kilns, and small collieries were common, supplying building materials across Derbyshire and the wider Midlands. Canals and later railways were vital in transporting heavy goods such as coal and bricks, linking these villages to larger towns and cities.

In the late 20th century, the decline of mining and traditional manufacturing led to major changes across the area. Many former industrial sites have since been redeveloped for housing, retail, and business use. Today, the surrounding towns and villages support a more varied economy, including logistics, light industry, and services, while still reflecting Swadlincote’s strong industrial heritage.

For these businesses and industries, staying compliant with the Provisions and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 is not just a legal requirement—it’s also about safeguarding your employees, protecting your business reputation, and ensuring your equipment remains safe and reliable.

Legal Requirements Under PUWER 1998

PUWER regulations place strict duties on business owners and equipment operators. Any business in Swadlincote that owns or operates work equipment must ensure that:

• Work equipment is safe to use.

• Examinations and maintenance are carried out at regular intervals.

• Inspections are conducted by a competent person.

Failure to comply can lead to heavy fines, prosecution, and serious safety risks.

Protecting Your Workforce and Your Business

At SEIS, we know that every business in Swadlincote – whether in heavy industry, healthcare, education, or automotive—depends on reliable, safe equipment. Regular PUWER inspections reduce the risk of accidents, protect your workforce, and ensure smooth day-to-day operations. Compliance not only keeps you legal, but also demonstrates a strong commitment to employee safety.

What is a PUWER Examination?

An examination under PUWER is a detailed and legally required inspection of work equipment. Unlike simple checks or maintenance tasks, a PUWER examination must be performed by a competent person and records should be taken to document the inspection carried out, by means of an inspection report.

Frequency of Examinations

How often your work equipment in Swadlincote needs to be inspected & tested depends on its type and use:

• On initial install – Work equipment should be inspected on initial install, after assembly at a new site or location, and prior to first being put into service.

• At suitable intervals – Whether this be decided by manufacturers guidance, or dependent on how quickly the work equipment or parts are liable to deteriorate .

• After exceptional circumstances which may jeopardise the safety of the work equipment  – Equipment must be inspected immediately if it has been modified, damaged, or relocated.

Competent Persons and Impartial Reporting

PUWER requires inspections to be carried out by a competent person—whether that be the us at SEIS, equipment supplier or highly trained operator. At SEIS, our inspections are impartial, unbiased, and always in line with UK regulations.

Types of Work Equipment Covered by SEIS in Swadlincote

Businesses in Swadlincote use a vast range of work equipment, and at SEIS we provide PUWER inspections across them all.

Industrial Power Press

• Press brakes

• Hydraulic power press

• Guillotine press

• Mechanical power press

Industrial Machinery

• CNC machines

• Lathe

• Pillar drills

• Injection moulding machines

Miscellaneous Work Equipment

• Storage racking

• Roller shutter doors

• Ladders

• Staging

No matter the type of equipment on your site, SEIS ensures every examination is completed thoroughly, with full reports for your compliance records.

SEIS: Your Local Independent Inspection & Testing Company

SEIS is proud to support Swadlincote businesses with impartial, expert inspections. We understand the local industries, from heavy industry to food production, and we tailor our service to meet your needs.

Independent, Impartial & Compliant

As an independent inspection provider, we do not sell or repair work equipment. This means you can trust our assessments to be impartial, unbiased, and fully in line with PUWER regulations.

Experienced Engineer Surveyors

Our team of qualified surveyors have years of hands-on experience across multiple industries. They know exactly what to look for and how to ensure your business remains compliant without unnecessary disruption.

Minimising Disruption to Your Operations

We understand that downtime costs money. That’s why we work around your production schedule, conducting inspections efficiently and professionally so your operations continue smoothly.

Our Inspection Process in Swadlincote

We make PUWER inspections & testing straightforward and hassle-free for local businesses.

Booking and Scheduling

Simply get in touch with our team, and we’ll arrange a time that works for you.

On-Site Examination

Our engineer surveyors visit your site and carry out thorough examinations with minimal disruption.

Report of Thorough Examination

After each inspection, you’ll receive a clear, detailed report highlighting any defects and recommended actions.

Ongoing Compliance Management

We’ll manage your inspection schedule, reminding you before your next due date. Plus, you’ll have access to our online reporting portal, so your certificates are always at your fingertips.

Why Choose SEIS for PUWER Inspections in Swadlincote?

Choosing the right inspection provider makes all the difference. Here’s why Swadlincote businesses trust SEIS:

Local Knowledge of Swadlincote Industries

From heavy industry and food manufacturing to hospitals, schools, and garages, we understand the unique challenges businesses here face.

Trusted by Multiple Sectors

We provide inspections for:

• Heavy industry

• Education

• Healthcare

• Automotive

Client-Centric Approach

We pride ourselves on safety, compliance, and customer service—always putting your needs first.

Swadlincote Facts

1. Swadlincote is a town in South Derbyshire, England, close to the borders of Leicestershire and Staffordshire.

2. The town developed mainly during the 19th century as a result of coal mining and clay-based industries.

3. Swadlincote is particularly well known for its brick, tile, and pottery production.

4. Local clay deposits helped make the area an important centre for brickmaking in the Midlands.

5. Swadlincote grew from a small rural settlement into a town during the Industrial Revolution.

6. The area was once served by canals and railways used to transport coal and industrial goods.

7. Swadlincote is surrounded by villages such as Church Gresley, Woodville, and Newhall, which also developed through industry.

8. The town is home to Swadlincote Town Football Club, founded in 1957.

9. Mining and heavy industry declined in the late 20th century, leading to major redevelopment in the area.

10. Today, Swadlincote has a mixed economy including retail, light industry, logistics, and services, while retaining a strong industrial heritage.

Book PUWER Inspection & Examination in Swadlincote

Booking with SEIS is quick and easy:

✅ Call our friendly team

✅ Fill in our online booking form

✅ Get your inspection arranged around your schedule

We’ll handle the rest, ensuring your equipment is inspected thoroughly, your compliance is up to date, and your workforce is kept safe.

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Plant Type *--- Select Choice ---Fork Lift Truck / Mobile Hydraulic HandlerCrane - Overhead / Goliath / Mobile etcPassenger lift / Goods lift / Platform liftPatient hoist / Patient sling(s) / Stair lift / Wheelchair Stair liftChain hoists & blocks / Lifting attachments / Lifting ancillaries / Lifting tackleVehicle lifts / Vehicle jack / Engine craneMobile Elevating Work PlatformTailboard lift / Lorry mounted crane / HIABOther

Plant Type *--- Select Choice ---Air receiver / Air compressor / Air oil receiver / Expansion vesselAir dryer units / Abrasive blast potsRefrigeration system(s)Steam boiler - Horizontal / VerticalSteam receivers / Steam heated roller / Steam heated platen / Blow down vessel / Steam jacketed panAutoclave / Coffee steam boilerWritten scheme of examination write up & certificationOther

Plant Type *--- Select Choice ---Pallet truck - Manual / PoweredLadders / StagingCNC machine / Industrial machineryPower pressStorage rackingAxle stands / hand toolsRoller shutter doorsOther

Plant Type *--- Select Choice ---Local exhaust ventilationWelding extractors / Welding hoodsDust extraction systemsFume cupboardOther

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