Our top tips for a PUWER Inspection regime
Looking for tips on how to achieve a winning PUWER inspection regime?
May 11, 2023
If you’ve found your way here, we’re fairly confident that you’re already well-versed in the crucial role PUWER Regulations play in ensuring machine safety for UK business owners and employers.
(For those who aren’t, we highly recommend checking out our previous blog post here)
However, grasping the importance of PUWER is quite distinct from knowing exactly how to breeze through your PUWER Inspection regime compliantly.
Worry not! Because our team of experts here at pm Connections have curated a collection of industry-leading tips and strategies to help you achieve compliance with Regulation 6 of PUWER and triumph over your upcoming PUWER Inspection regime.
Let’s dive in…
1. Conduct a thorough Risk Assessment
Before you begin the inspection process, it’s essential to conduct a comprehensive risk assessment. This should include an evaluation of the machinery’s suitability, its location, how it is installed, and the way it is used. The assessment should also consider any modifications made to the machinery and their potential impact on safety.
Doing this will help you identify potential hazards and areas of concern associated with your work equipment. By understanding these risks, you can develop targeted strategies to mitigate them and maintain a safe working environment.
Top tip: All safety-related equipment must also be inspected during the Risk Assessment. This includes any protective equipment, such as safety guards, emergency stop buttons, presence-sensing devices and PPE.
2. Develop an Inspection Plan
Okay, so you’ve conducted a thorough Risk Assessment of your machinery? Great.
Now, using the information gathered during the assessment, create a detailed inspection plan that outlines the frequency, scope, and methods of your PUWER inspections. The plan should address both routine inspections and thorough examinations, which are more in-depth assessments conducted at specified intervals.
You’ll also want to ensure that the inspection plan aligns with the manufacturer’s recommendations and any relevant industry standards. This will ensure a systematic and proactive approach to maintaining equipment safety and compliance.
Top tip: To save time and ensure consistency across your records, it’s a great idea to create a form that can be backed up digitally. This will ensure that records are not lost or damaged, and save you a lot of headache in the long run! Additionally, at pm Connections, we advise considering thorough inspections at each of the following intervals…
- Before first use of the machinery
- Following exposures to conditions that could cause deterioration
- After any major repairs
- After any damage has been identified
- Before a new user utilises the machinery, pre- use check
- Record-keeping and documentation
Next up is a critical, yet frequently underestimated aspect of compliance with Regulation 6 of PUWER: Maintaining thorough records and documentation of all inspections.
Many businesses inadvertently fall short in this area, leading to difficulties in demonstrating their adherence to PUWER Regulations when faced with an audit or investigation. To ensure your business stays on track, it’s essential to keep comprehensive records of each inspection performed. This includes essential details such as inspection dates, findings, and any corrective actions taken in response to identified issues.
By diligently documenting this information, you create a valuable record of your ongoing commitment to equipment safety and PUWER compliance. Plus, in the event of a future audit or investigation – you’ll have concrete evidence of your compliance, helping you avoid any potential penalties, fines or legal repercussions.
3. Follow up, maintain and review!
Our final piece of advice is to remember that PUWER compliance is an ongoing process. Staying informed about the latest regulations concerning your machinery safety is crucial for maintaining compliance at all times.
When issues are identified during inspections, it’s essential to take prompt corrective actions and closely monitor their effectiveness. Additionally, it’s important to regularly review your inspection processes and outcomes to ensure they remain current and effective in maintaining equipment safety.
Top Tip: Keeping a detailed maintenance log for each piece of machinery will ensure all future inspections can be carried out with this information in mind. A PUWER asset register is also a useful tool to log details, actions and plan inspections.
Summary
By adhering to these expert tips and strategies, your business will be well-prepared for any upcoming PUWER Inspection regime. Through meticulous planning, comprehensive risk assessments, and a steadfast commitment to safety, your business should be able to confidently navigate the world of PUWER compliance while fostering a secure and productive work environment.
Need a hand implementing a winning PUWER Inspection regime?
At pm Connections, there’s little we love more than helping businesses like yours effortlessly navigate the realm of PUWER Regulatory compliance by creating a top-notch PUWER Inspection regime that sets you up for success.
With over 18 years of industry experience and a whole team full of down-to-earth, professional experts, there’s no better team to help deliver your health and safety success. Give us a ring on 01925 649 818 or check out our range of machine safety services here.
