Need your Work Equipment inspected in line with PUWER98 regulations? Or need a full on site PUWER98 Assessment? Get a quote today to ensure you remain compliant.
The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER) is a key piece of UK health and safety legislation designed to ensure that equipment used at work is suitable, safe, and properly maintained. PUWER applies to employers, the self-employed, and anyone who has control over work equipment. The regulations cover a broad range of equipment, from simple hand tools to complex machinery, and apply in all work environments. The main aim of PUWER is to prevent injuries and accidents resulting from the improper use or maintenance of equipment.
Under PUWER, employers must ensure that work equipment is: suitable for its intended use; maintained in a safe condition; and inspected regularly to detect and remedy any deterioration or risk. Additionally, equipment must be used only by people who have received adequate information, instruction, and training. Where necessary, risks must be controlled by using guards, warning devices, and other protective measures. Employers are also required to consider ergonomic factors and the health and safety of workers during equipment selection and use.
Inspections under PUWER are a critical part of ensuring ongoing safety. These inspections must be carried out by a competent person, and the frequency will depend on factors such as the type of equipment, its use, and the level of risk involved. For example, high-risk equipment like power presses, or woodworking machinery may require more frequent checks. Inspections can be formal (documented, scheduled and a report of thorough examination produced) or informal (carried out by operators as part of routine checks, as long as they’re deemed competent), but any significant defects found must be recorded and acted upon promptly. Keeping clear records of inspections and maintenance is not only good practice—it is legally required in the event of an incident, or HSE investigation.
The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER 98) apply to a wide range of work equipment used in workplaces across the UK. Work equipment under PUWER includes any machinery, appliance, apparatus, tool, or installation used by an employee at work. This means the regulations cover everything from simple hand tools to complex industrial machinery. The main aim of PUWER is to ensure that equipment is safe for use, properly maintained, and only operated by people who have received adequate training.
Common examples of work equipment covered by PUWER include powered machinery such as lathes, milling machines, conveyors, forklifts, and packaging machines. These items often present significant risks due to moving parts, high speeds, or heavy loads. PUWER requires that such equipment is fitted with appropriate guards, emergency stop controls, and safety devices to prevent contact with dangerous parts. Regular inspections and servicing are also required to ensure continued safe operation.
PUWER also applies to hand-held and portable tools, including drills, grinders, saws, nail guns, and powered cutting tools. Even though these tools may appear low risk compared to large machinery, they can still cause serious injuries if poorly maintained or incorrectly used. Under PUWER, employers must ensure tools are suitable for the task, kept in good condition, and used according to manufacturers’ instructions. This includes managing risks from vibration, noise, and electrical faults.
Lifting and access equipment used at work also falls within PUWER’s scope. This includes items such as pallet trucks, lifting tables, hoists, ladders, and mobile work platforms. While some lifting equipment is also covered by LOLER, PUWER still applies to its general safety, suitability, and maintenance. Employers must ensure that equipment is stable, clearly marked, and used only within its safe working limits.
Finally, PUWER covers non-powered equipment and installations, such as racking systems, workbenches, fixed guards, and production lines. Even equipment without moving parts can present hazards if poorly designed or maintained. PUWER places a strong emphasis on training, supervision, and information, requiring employers to ensure workers understand the risks associated with the equipment they use and how to control them. Together, these requirements help reduce workplace accidents and promote a safer working environment.
It should also be noted that a lot of work equipment falls under multiple regulations, such as LOLER98, PSSR2000 or COSHH2002. If you’re ever in any doubt, simply reach out.
At SEIS, we can carry out a full on site assessment, and inform you on what regulations your equipment falls under, and whether you remain compliant with the PUWER98 regulations.
✅ Call our friendly team on 0330 043 8191
✅ 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.
Our network of multi-disciplined, and multi-skilled engineer surveyors are experienced, knowledgeable, competent and located throughout the UK
Our client inspection/ reporting portal provides instant access to your inspection reports, defect notifications, inspection due dates and graph data to highlight customer compliance.
Total flexibility - No delay on-boarding, no 30 day wait period, no red tape. Easy to organise inspections, on time, every time!
See how SEIS can help with your Lifting Equipment compliance
See how SEIS can help with your Work Equipment compliance
See how SEIS can help with your Pressure Systems compliance
