Why PUWER Inspections Matter for Businesses in Consett

Consett is a town in County Durham, North East England, situated on a high plateau to the west of Durham City. Originally a small rural settlement, Consett experienced rapid growth during the 19th century due to industrial development. Its elevated location provided space for large-scale industry, and the town became closely associated with heavy manufacturing, shaping both its landscape and community.

The most important industry in Consett was iron and steel production. The Consett Iron Company, established in the mid-1800s, became one of the largest employers in the region. Iron ore, coal, and limestone were brought to the town to fuel blast furnaces, producing iron and steel used in construction, railways, and shipbuilding. This industry attracted workers from across the region and led to the expansion of housing, transport links, and local services.

Alongside iron and steel, coal mining played a significant supporting role in Consett’s economy. Nearby coalfields provided essential fuel for the ironworks, while engineering and transport industries developed to support heavy industry. Railways were built to connect Consett with ports and industrial centres, enabling raw materials and finished goods to be moved efficiently.

In the late 20th century, the decline of heavy industry led to major economic challenges. The closure of the Consett steelworks in 1980 resulted in widespread unemployment and population change. In response, large-scale regeneration projects were introduced to clear former industrial land and attract new investment. This marked a major shift in the town’s economic direction.

Today, Consett has a diversified economy. Light manufacturing, retail, education, healthcare, and public services now provide much of the employment. Business parks and retail centres occupy land once used for heavy industry, while environmental improvements have transformed the town’s surroundings. Although iron and steel production no longer dominate, Consett’s industrial heritage remains central to its identity and local pride.

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 Consett 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 Consett – 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 Consett 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 Consett

Businesses in Consett 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 Consett 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 Consett

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 Consett?

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

Local Knowledge of Consett 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.

Consett Facts

1. Consett is a town in County Durham, North East England.

2. It is located on a high plateau, making it one of the highest towns in England.

3. Consett developed from a small rural settlement into an industrial town in the 19th century.

4. The town was most famous for the Consett Iron Company, a major iron and steel producer.

5. Iron and steel production dominated Consett’s economy for over a century.

6. The ironworks closed in 1980, leading to major job losses and economic decline.

7. Following the closure, Consett underwent extensive regeneration and redevelopment.

8. Former industrial land was cleared and reused for housing, retail, and business parks.

9. Today, Consett has a mixed economy, including light manufacturing, retail, education, and healthcare.

10. Consett’s industrial heritage remains an important part of its identity and local history.

Book PUWER Inspection & Examination in Consett

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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