Why PUWER Inspections Matter for Businesses in Newton Aycliffe

Newton Aycliffe is a town in County Durham, in the north-east of England, and is one of the country’s best examples of a post-war planned town. It was established in 1947 as part of the government’s New Towns programme, designed to provide housing and employment after the Second World War. Built near existing villages such as Aycliffe and School Aycliffe, the town was carefully planned with residential areas, green spaces, and—most importantly—space for industry.

The heart of Newton Aycliffe’s economy has always been manufacturing and engineering. The town was built around Aycliffe Business Park, one of the largest industrial estates in the UK. Early industries included metalworking, electrical engineering, and general manufacturing, which provided thousands of jobs for people moving into the new town. This strong industrial base helped Newton Aycliffe grow quickly and establish itself as a major employment centre in County Durham.

One of the most significant industries in Newton Aycliffe is rail manufacturing. The town is home to a major train-building facility, which has produced rolling stock for the UK rail network and international markets. This industry requires a highly skilled workforce, including engineers, welders, and technicians, and has played a key role in keeping advanced manufacturing alive in the region. Rail production has also helped put Newton Aycliffe on the national map.

Alongside heavy industry, Newton Aycliffe has developed a strong presence in modern manufacturing, logistics, and distribution. Many national and international companies operate warehouses, production plants, and assembly facilities on the business park. These industries benefit from the town’s excellent transport links, including proximity to the A1(M) and East Coast Main Line, making it an ideal location for moving goods across the UK.

Today, Newton Aycliffe’s economy is more diverse than in the past, with growth in technology, pharmaceuticals, food production, retail, and services. While manufacturing remains central to the town’s identity, newer industries have helped improve economic stability and employment opportunities. Newton Aycliffe continues to reflect its original purpose: a town built around industry, adapting over time while remaining a vital industrial hub in the North East.

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 Newton Aycliffe 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 Newton Aycliffe – 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 Newton Aycliffe 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 Newton Aycliffe

Businesses in Newton Aycliffe 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 Newton Aycliffe 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 Newton Aycliffe

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 Newton Aycliffe?

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

Local Knowledge of Newton Aycliffe 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.

Newton Aycliffe Facts

1. Newton Aycliffe is located in County Durham, in the north-east of England.

2. It was founded in 1947 as part of the UK government’s New Towns programme.

3. Newton Aycliffe was designed to provide homes and jobs after the Second World War.

4. The town is built around Aycliffe Business Park, one of the largest industrial estates in the UK.

5. Manufacturing and engineering have always been central to the town’s economy.

6. Newton Aycliffe is home to a major rail manufacturing facility, producing trains for the UK and abroad.

7. The town has strong transport links, including proximity to the A1(M) and East Coast Main Line.

8. It is close to the historic market town of Darlington.

9. Newton Aycliffe has a planned layout, with residential areas separated from industrial zones.

10. Today, the town supports a diverse range of industries, including logistics, technology, and pharmaceuticals.

Book PUWER Inspection & Examination in Newton Aycliffe

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.

Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.

Name *

First

Last

Company Name *

Location Postcode *

Phone Number *

Email *

My Enquiry Is Regarding *- Select -LOLERPSSRPUWERCOSHH

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

Type Regarding Is

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

Comment or Message

Submit

PUWER Inspections & Examinations Newton Aycliffe FAQ's