Why PUWER Inspections Matter for Businesses in York

York is a historic city in North Yorkshire, renowned for its rich heritage, Roman and Viking history, and well-preserved medieval architecture, including the iconic York Minster. Strategically located between London and Edinburgh on the East Coast Main Line, York benefits from excellent rail links, as well as good road connectivity via the A64 and A1(M). The city’s blend of historical charm, strong infrastructure, and highly educated workforce has made it a desirable place to live, work, and do business, attracting investment from a wide range of sectors.

The economy of York is diverse, with key industries including tourism, education, rail, biosciences, and digital technology. Tourism is a major economic driver, with millions of visitors each year supporting a vibrant hospitality, retail, and cultural sector. The University of York and York St John University also contribute significantly to the local economy, both as major employers and as hubs for innovation and research—particularly in science and technology. In recent years, the city has become known for its growing digital and creative industries, with tech start-ups and digital agencies playing an increasingly important role.

York also has strong roots in rail and engineering, historically linked to the development of the railway industry in the 19th century. Today, companies involved in rail infrastructure, transport services, and advanced manufacturing continue to operate in and around the city. Additionally, the city has developed a niche in life sciences and agri-tech, supported by science parks and research collaborations. With continued investment in infrastructure, sustainability, and high-tech sectors, York is positioning itself as a city that balances its historical significance with a forward-looking, knowledge-based economy.

York is a historic city in North Yorkshire, surrounded by towns and villages such as Haxby, Huntington, Acomb, Tadcaster, Stamford Bridge, and Easingwold. These settlements developed around fertile farmland, river crossings, and key transport routes, with York acting as the main administrative, commercial, and cultural centre for the area. The surrounding villages traditionally supported the city through agriculture and local trade.

Historically, agriculture was the dominant industry in the towns and villages around York. Arable farming, livestock rearing, and market gardening supplied food to the city and beyond. Towns such as Tadcaster also developed early industrial activity, including brewing and milling, supported by good water supply and transport links. York itself became known for food production and confectionery, which influenced employment in surrounding areas.

In modern times, the economy of York and its surrounding settlements has diversified. Tourism plays a major role, with villages benefiting from visitors exploring the historic city and nearby countryside. Education, healthcare, retail, and public services are major employers, alongside light manufacturing and business parks on the outskirts of the city. Many surrounding towns and villages also serve as commuter areas for people working in York.

Today, the towns and villages around York reflect a balance between rural tradition and modern economic activity. Agriculture remains important in the surrounding countryside, while services, tourism, and commuting now play a larger role, with York continuing to act as the economic and cultural heart of the region.

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 York 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 York – 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 York 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 York

Businesses in York 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 York 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 York

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 York?

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

Local Knowledge of York 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.

York Facts

1. York is a historic city in North Yorkshire, England.

2. The city was founded by the Romans in AD 71 and was known as Eboracum.

3. York served as an important Viking settlement called Jorvik.

4. York Minster is one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in northern Europe.

5. The city is famous for its well-preserved medieval city walls.

6. The River Ouse flows through the centre of York.

7. York was an important political and religious centre during the medieval period.

8. The city has a long association with the railway industry and is home to the National Railway Museum.

9. York is a major tourist destination due to its history, architecture, and museums.

10. Today, York’s economy includes tourism, education, healthcare, retail, and public services.

Book PUWER Inspection & Examination in York

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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