Why PUWER Inspections Matter for Businesses in Tynemouth

History and industry in Tynemouth

Tynemouth is a historic coastal town in North Tyneside, North East England, located at the mouth of the River Tyne. Its position on the coast and near the river made it strategically important for trade, defence, and maritime activity for centuries. The town is well known for Tynemouth Castle and Priory, which date back to medieval times and are now key historical landmarks, attracting tourists and supporting the local economy.

Historically, fishing was one of Tynemouth’s main industries. The town’s location on the North Sea allowed a thriving fishing fleet to operate for generations, supplying fish to local markets and beyond. The harbour provided facilities for landing, processing, and distributing seafood, making fishing central to the town’s economy and community life.

During the Industrial Revolution, Tynemouth was also involved in shipbuilding, ship repair, and maritime trade. Although smaller than Newcastle or nearby Wallsend, Tynemouth had workshops, docks, and engineering businesses supporting the construction and maintenance of ships. These industries created employment and connected the town to the wider industrial economy of the Tyne region.

In the 20th century, traditional industries such as fishing and shipbuilding declined due to overfishing, industrial changes, and global competition. In response, Tynemouth shifted its focus toward tourism and service industries, using its historic sites, coastal scenery, and cultural events to attract visitors. Regeneration efforts revitalised the harbour and town centre, encouraging new businesses and leisure facilities.

Today, Tynemouth has a mixed economy. Service industries, including retail, education, healthcare, and hospitality, provide significant employment. Tourism plays a major role, with attractions like Tynemouth Castle, Priory, beaches, and cultural events drawing visitors from across the region. While traditional maritime industries are no longer dominant, Tynemouth’s history and coastal heritage remain central to its identity and economic development.

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 Tynemouth 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 Tynemouth – 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 Tynemouth 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 Tynemouth

Businesses in Tynemouth 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 Tynemouth 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 Tynemouth

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 Tynemouth?

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

Local Knowledge of Tynemouth 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.

Tynemouth Facts

1. Tynemouth is a historic coastal town in North Tyneside, North East England.

2. It is located at the mouth of the River Tyne, where the river meets the North Sea.

3. The town is famous for Tynemouth Castle and Priory, dating back to medieval times.

4. Historically, fishing was one of Tynemouth’s main industries.

5. The town had a thriving harbour for landing and distributing fish and goods.

6. During the Industrial Revolution, Tynemouth was involved in shipbuilding, ship repair, and maritime trade.

7. Traditional industries declined in the 20th century due to industrial changes and overfishing.

8. Tourism is now a major part of the economy, supported by historic sites, beaches, and cultural events.

9. Service industries such as retail, education, healthcare, and hospitality provide significant employment.

10. Tynemouth’s maritime and historic heritage remain central to its identity and attract visitors from across the region.

Book PUWER Inspection & Examination in Tynemouth

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 ---Pallet truck - Manual / PoweredLadders / StagingCNC machine / Industrial machineryPower pressStorage rackingAxle stands / hand toolsRoller shutter doorsOther

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