The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER) play a crucial role in maintaining workplace safety by placing duties on individuals and organisations that own, operate, or control work equipment. These regulations ensure that equipment is safe and suitable for use, thus protecting employees from potential hazards. Let’s dive into what PUWER entails and how it impacts your business.
What is PUWER?
PUWER, often abbreviated, stands for the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations. It mandates that all equipment used at work must be:
• Suitable for its intended use
• Safe and maintained in a safe condition
• Inspected to ensure correct installation and ongoing safety
• Used by adequately trained personnel
• Accompanied by necessary health and safety measures, including protective devices and controls
PUWER applies to a wide range of equipment, including machinery, tools, appliances, and installations used at work. It also encompasses activities related to the use of equipment, such as starting, stopping, programming, setting, transporting, repairing, modifying, maintaining, servicing, and cleaning.
Responsibilities Under PUWER
Businesses and organisations must manage the risks associated with work equipment by adhering to the following requirements:
Suitability and Safety:
• Ensure equipment is constructed or adapted for its intended use.
• Consider workplace conditions and health and safety risks when selecting equipment.
• Ensure equipment is used only for suitable purposes and is maintained in good repair.
Inspection and Maintenance:
• Maintain an up-to-date maintenance log if required.
• Inspect equipment after installation and before use, especially if safety depends on proper installation.
• Regularly inspect equipment exposed to conditions that may lead to deterioration and dangerous situations.
Training and Information:
• Provide clear health and safety information and written instructions on equipment use.
• Ensure all users, supervisors, and managers receive adequate training on the correct use of equipment, associated risks, and necessary precautions.
• Restrict the use of high-risk equipment to trained and appointed individuals.
Lifting Equipment:
Must meet the requirements of the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER). We have an upcoming course on LOLER, keep an eye out for the course.
Pressure Equipment: Must adhere to the Pressure Systems Safety Regulations.
Personal Protective Equipment:
Must comply with PPE Regulations. You can find out more about our PPE course here. When introducing new work equipment, ensure it conforms to relevant product supply laws, bears appropriate conformity markings, is labeled with the manufacturer’s details, includes a Declaration of Conformity, and is free from defects throughout its working life.
Adhering to PUWER regulations is essential for ensuring the safety and well-being of employees who use work equipment. By understanding and implementing PUWER requirements, businesses can create a safer work environment, reduce the risk of accidents, and maintain compliance with health and safety laws. Investing in proper equipment management and employee training is not just a regulatory obligation but a commitment to a safer, more productive workplace.
For more detailed guidance on PUWER and how to implement its requirements, consider enrolling in our comprehensive training course, designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to comply with these crucial regulations.