Why PUWER Inspections Matter for Businesses in Newcastle

History and industry in Newcastle

Newcastle upon Tyne is a major city in North East England, located on the north bank of the River Tyne. Its strategic location allowed it to develop as a centre of trade and transport from medieval times onward. The city has a rich history, beginning as the Roman settlement Pons Aelius, and later growing as a market town and hub for commerce. Newcastle’s position near coalfields and along the Tyne enabled it to become an industrial powerhouse during the Industrial Revolution.

During the 18th and 19th centuries, Newcastle became a centre for coal mining, which earned the city the nickname “The Toon” because of its close ties to the coal trade. Coal from the surrounding areas was transported via the River Tyne and local railways to ports for export. Alongside coal, Newcastle developed shipbuilding, engineering, and heavy industry, producing ships, machinery, and metal products for both domestic and international markets. These industries shaped the city’s economy and created employment for thousands of residents.

The Industrial Revolution also saw Newcastle become a hub for manufacturing and chemical industries. Factories produced glass, chemicals, engineering tools, and construction materials. The city’s location and infrastructure allowed industries to thrive and support the growing population. Shipbuilding and heavy industry remained dominant until the late 20th century, when economic changes and global competition led to a decline in these sectors.

In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, Newcastle began a process of economic diversification and regeneration. Former industrial sites along the Quayside were redeveloped into commercial, cultural, and residential areas. Service industries, including finance, education, retail, and professional services, have become increasingly important, providing the majority of employment in the city today.

Tourism and culture are now key industries in Newcastle. Landmarks such as the Tyne Bridge, Newcastle Castle, and the historic Quayside attract visitors, while cultural venues like Theatre Royal, Sage Gateshead (nearby), and BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art support the arts sector. Digital, creative, and technology-based industries are also emerging, reflecting Newcastle’s transition from a traditional industrial city to a modern, service-oriented urban centre.

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 Newcastle 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 Newcastle – 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 Newcastle 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 Newcastle

Businesses in Newcastle 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 Newcastle 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 Newcastle

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 Newcastle?

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

Local Knowledge of Newcastle 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.

Newcastle Facts

1. Newcastle upon Tyne is a major city in North East England, located on the north bank of the River Tyne.

2. The city began as the Roman settlement Pons Aelius.

3. Newcastle developed as a market town and trading centre during medieval times.

4. The city was historically a major hub for coal mining, earning it the nickname “The Toon.”

5. Shipbuilding and heavy engineering were key industries during the Industrial Revolution.

6. Newcastle also had glassmaking, chemical, and manufacturing industries.

7. Industrial decline in the late 20th century led to job losses and economic change.

8. The Quayside and riverside areas have been regenerated for commercial, cultural, and residential use.

9. The city has a diverse modern economy, including education, finance, retail, and professional services.

10. Tourism and culture are important, with attractions such as the Tyne Bridge, Newcastle Castle, Theatre Royal, and BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art.

Book PUWER Inspection & Examination in Newcastle

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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