Why PUWER Inspections Matter for Businesses in Wakefield

Wakefield is a cathedral city in West Yorkshire, located just south of Leeds and well-connected by the M1 and M62 motorways, as well as an extensive rail network. Historically, Wakefield was a key centre for coal mining and textiles during the Industrial Revolution, playing a vital role in Yorkshire’s industrial growth. While those traditional industries have declined, Wakefield has successfully repositioned itself as a diverse and modern economy, benefiting from its strategic location within the Leeds City Region and strong transport links across the UK.

Today, Wakefield’s economy is driven by a mix of sectors, with major strengths in logistics, warehousing, retail, and manufacturing. The area is home to several large distribution centres and business parks, including Wakefield Europort, which serves as a major hub for freight and supply chain operations. National retailers and logistics companies, such as Asda, Next, and Warburtons, operate significant facilities in the area. Wakefield also supports a range of light manufacturing firms, particularly in food production, packaging, and construction materials.

Alongside its industrial and commercial activity, Wakefield has a growing service sector, including public administration, education, health care, and professional services. The city centre has seen regeneration in recent years, with improvements to retail, housing, and public spaces. Wakefield is also recognised for its cultural offerings, including The Hepworth Wakefield gallery and the nearby Yorkshire Sculpture Park, both of which support tourism and the creative industries. With a strong workforce, ongoing investment, and a well-connected location, Wakefield continues to develop as a key economic and cultural hub in West Yorkshire.

Wakefield is a city in West Yorkshire, situated on the River Calder and surrounded by towns and villages such as Ossett, Horbury, Normanton, Castleford, Knottingley, and Stanley. These settlements developed along river valleys and major transport routes, including canals, railways, and later motorways, which supported industrial growth and trade. Wakefield has long acted as an administrative, commercial, and industrial centre for the surrounding area.

Historically, the economy of Wakefield and its neighbouring towns and villages was shaped by coal mining, textiles, and engineering. Collieries in areas such as Normanton, Castleford, and Stanley provided employment for generations, while woollen textile mills were common in places like Ossett and Horbury. Agriculture remained important in the surrounding rural areas, supplying food and raw materials to the growing towns.

Following the decline of heavy industry in the late 20th century, the area diversified economically. Logistics, warehousing, and distribution have become major employers, benefiting from Wakefield’s central location and strong road and rail links. Light manufacturing, retail, healthcare, education, and public services also play a significant role in employment across Wakefield and its surrounding communities.

Today, the towns and villages around Wakefield reflect a blend of industrial heritage and modern economic activity. While coal mining and textiles shaped much of the area’s history, the local economy now supports a wide mix of industries, services, and commuter-based employment, with Wakefield continuing to serve as a key hub within West Yorkshire.

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 Wakefield 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 Wakefield – 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 Wakefield 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 Wakefield

Businesses in Wakefield 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 Wakefield 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 Wakefield

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 Wakefield?

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

Local Knowledge of Wakefield 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.

Wakefield Facts

1. Wakefield is a city in West Yorkshire, England, located on the River Calder.

2. It has historically been an important centre for coal mining and textiles.

3. Wakefield was part of the historic West Riding of Yorkshire.

4. The city became a city by letters patent in 1888.

5. Wakefield is known for Wakefield Cathedral, which has the tallest spire in Yorkshire.

6. The surrounding area includes towns such as Ossett, Horbury, Normanton, and Castleford.

7. Wakefield’s location gives it strong transport links via rail and nearby motorways including the M1.

8. The city played a role in the English Civil War, including the Battle of Wakefield in 1460.

9. Wakefield has a strong cultural scene, including The Hepworth Wakefield art gallery.

10. Today, the local economy includes logistics, retail, education, healthcare, and light manufacturing.

Book PUWER Inspection & Examination in Wakefield

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 *

Email Comment Plant

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

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 Wakefield FAQ's