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an example of a machine that would require stringent machine safety assessments

Overwhelmed by machine safety definitions and legislation? That's where we come in.

May 24, 2023

In today’s world, machines are essential to our daily lives. From production lines to household appliances, they are designed to make our lives easier and more efficient. However, with the increasing use of machinery comes the responsibility to ensure their safe operation. 

Whether you’re an employer or business owner, or you manufacture and supply machinery within the United Kingdom – there are numerous areas of machine safety legislation that you need to be aware of. 

But hey, we get it. Machine safety is a complex and evolving subject. With ever-changing legislative requirements and technological advancements – it can be challenging to get your head around.

For this reason, here at pm Connections, we’ve compiled this beginner’s guide of everything you need to know about machine safety and regulations. 

PUWER Regulations – Machine Safety

To begin with, if you’re an employer, it is worth noting that you are legally responsible for ensuring that your workplace equipment meets the Provision and Use of Equipment Regulations (PUWER, 1998). 

The key aspects of PUWER include: 

  • Scope – PUWER applies to all workplace equipment, including machinery, tools and devices used by workers within the workplace. 
  • Employer responsibilities – As an employer, you must ensure that work equipment is suitable for its intended use, maintained in good working order, and safe for your employees to operate. 
  • Training and information – You must also provide adequate training and information for employees who operate work equipment. This includes instructions on safe usage, potential hazards, and emergency procedures. 
  • Inspections – You must make sure that a ‘competent person’ carries out regular inspections of your machinery. The competent person should store findings from these inspections securely.

How often do PUWER Assessments need to be carried out?

As an employer, you should carry out PUWER Assessments under the following circumstances:

  • In any exceptional circumstances – For example, if there have been major modifications or suspected damage to the machinery. Any time you believe that a known instance has the potential to have jeopardised the safety of the equipment – a PUWER Assessment should be carried out. 
  • After installation – When the equipment’s safety depends on the installation conditions, a ‘competent person’ should inspect it after installation and before its first use. 
  • Any occasion where it has been reassembled – If the equipment has been reassembled at any new site or location – a further PUWER Assessment is required. 
  • At suitable intervals – This will vary depending on the equipment involved and how often it is used or deteriorates over time. 

What equipment is covered under PUWER Regulation?

Any machinery, apparatus, appliance or tools supplied from you to your workplace should be PUWER Assessed. This includes: 

  • Forklift trucks
  • Drills
  • Motor vehicles
  • Pallet trucks
  • Paint booths
  • Floor polishers
  • Sewing machines
  • Conveyor belts
  • Food processors 

Who is responsible for complying with PUWER Regulation?

  • Employers
  • Business owners
  • Self-employed people
  • People in charge of appliances

Fun fact: Though the concept of PUWER Assessments may seem daunting to those unfamiliar with them, they’re simply routine for our proficient team at pm Connections. In fact, our esteemed Business Systems & Compliance Manager, Marie Dobson, has developed such a knack for understanding various machinery that she can often foresee potential issues based on the age and country of origin of the machine she’s inspecting! 

Machine Risk Assessments – Machine Safety

Additionally, it is also worth noting that Machine Risk Assessments are another essential part of ensuring machine safety. They involve identifying potential hazards associated with a machine and evaluating the risks involved. As a manufacturer or designer of machinery, this responsibility falls to you. 

The key components of a Machine Risk Assessment are as follows: 

  • Identifying hazards – Examining the machine and its components to identify any potential hazards, such as moving parts, electrical components or noise.
  • Assess the risks – Determining the likelihood and severity of harm that could result from each hazard.
  • Implement control measures – Put in place measures to eliminate or reduce the risk, such as guards, safety devices, and personal protective equipment.
  • Record the findings – Document the risk assessment process and the measures taken to address the risks. 
  • Review and update – Regularly review the risk assessment and update it as necessary, particularly when changes or modifications are made to the machine or its operation. 

How often should Machine Risk Assessments be carried out?

Machine Risk Assessments should be carried out: 

  • During the design phase: Assessing the risks associated with the machine during the design and development process ensures that safety measures are integrated from the outset.
  • After significant modifications: If a machine undergoes substantial changes, alterations, or upgrades, it is essential to reevaluate the risks involved and implement appropriate safety measures.
  • In response to accidents or incidents: If an accident or near-miss occurs involving a machine, it’s crucial to reassess the risks and take necessary steps to prevent future occurrences
  • Periodically: Regularly reviewing and updating Machine Risk Assessments is essential to maintaining safety standards. The frequency of reviews will depend on factors such as the type of machinery, its age, and the industry in which it is used.

Who is responsible for carrying out Machine Risk Assessments?

  • Manufacturers
  • Designer of machinery 


UKCA / CE Marking – Machine Safety

Finally, if you’re a manufacturer of machinery, you’ll need to ensure that your products are successfully UKCA / CE Marked before you can legally sell them within the UK or Europe. Not only does this ensure you’re obliging with legislative requirements, but it shows your customers that your business is trustworthy.

Currently, products can either carry the CE mark, or the newer UKCA mark – however, from January 2025, the CE mark will become obsolete. Whilst many technical requirements of UKCA marking are the same as those required by CE marking, there are exceptions. We’ve provided free guidance on this in a helpful guide here. 

Applying for a UKCA / CE mark

The specifications required to achieve UKCA / CE marking vary depending on the product and sector they involve. However, the process involved in applying typically looks something like this:

  • Establishing which specific UKCA / CE marking regulations/directives apply to your product
  • Assessing your product to ensure it meets standards and regulations/directives
  • Rectifying any areas of non-compliance
  • Working with a Notified Body or UK-Approved Body 
  • Compiling a technical file
  • Preparing a Declaration of Conformity 
  • Affixing your UKCA / CE marking in accordance with regulatory requirements

All sound a little confusing?

So, if all of this sounds a little confusing or overwhelming – fear not, because you’re not alone. At pm Connections, we’ve worked with hundreds of businesses to help them stay compliant with machine safety regulations. 

Whether you’re a small business wanting to ensure your new conveyor belt is PUWER-compliant or a manufacturer looking to bring your machinery to the UK marketplace – we can help you.

Check out our case study here of how we helped Acrivarn – a family-owned manufacturing company based in Leeds, ensure their products were suitably UKCA marked and compliant with relevant machine safety regulations. 

 

Alternatively, give us a ring on 01925 649 818 or drop us a message here! 

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