PUWER Work Equipment Inspections
Inspection support for workplace equipment where formal inspection is required under the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998, helping businesses identify deterioration, maintain clear records and keep equipment in a safe condition.
Inspection should match the equipment and the risk.
The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 apply broadly to machinery, appliances, apparatus, tools and installations used at work. They require equipment to be suitable for its intended use, maintained in a safe condition and inspected where necessary.
Not every item of work equipment needs a formal periodic inspection. The need, scope and frequency should reflect the equipment, how it is used, the conditions it operates in and the risks identified.
Durham Lifting can support businesses with inspection of workplace, handling, access and mobile equipment covered by the existing service.
Work equipment we can inspect
Handling & Workplace Equipment
- Manual and powered pallet trucks
- Hydraulic jacks and axle stands
- Ladders and steps
- Fork lift and stacker trucks
Mobile & Site Equipment
- Excavators and diggers
- Vehicle tail lifts
- Container lifters
- Skip loaders
Access Equipment
- Mobile Elevated Work Platforms
- Telescopic and articulated booms
- Scissor and personnel lifts
- Truck-mounted and specialist access machines
When can a PUWER inspection be required?
Before first use
Where safety depends on installation conditions, inspection may be required after installation and before the equipment is first used.
After relocation
Relevant equipment may need inspection after reassembly at a new site or location.
Suitable intervals
Equipment exposed to conditions that can cause deterioration and create danger may require inspection at appropriate intervals.
Exceptional circumstances
Major modification, suspected serious damage or a substantial change in use can justify further inspection.
Related regulations, different inspection routes.
PUWER Work Equipment Inspection
This page is focused on work equipment generally, including workplace, handling, mobile and access equipment where inspection is required.
Need a LOLER Thorough Examination?
LOLER adds specific requirements for lifting equipment and lifting operations, including Thorough Examination requirements for lifting equipment and accessories.
View LOLER Inspections →Clear inspection findings and accessible records.
Scope the equipment
The inspection requirement should reflect the type of equipment, its use, operating conditions and identified risks.
Inspect relevant safety items
The level of inspection can range from visual checks to more detailed examination or functional checks where appropriate.
Record the result
Where a formal inspection is required, the findings should be documented and retained in line with the inspection requirement.
Keep inspection records easier to manage.
Durham Lifting's existing Motion Software service gives customers web-based access to lifting equipment registers and test certificates, with automatic reminders in advance of the next equipment inspection date. This can help make records easier to locate for audits and reduce reliance on paper-based administration.
PUWER inspection FAQs
What is a PUWER inspection?
A PUWER inspection is an inspection of work equipment carried out where necessary to identify installation problems, deterioration or other safety issues that could create risk. The scope depends on the equipment and how it is used.
Does all work equipment need a formal PUWER inspection?
No. Not all work equipment needs a formal inspection. In many cases a pre-use visual check may be sufficient. Formal inspection is required where significant risks could arise from installation, deterioration or other circumstances.
How often should PUWER inspections be carried out?
There is no single universal PUWER interval for all work equipment. Frequency should be based on risk, taking account of the equipment, its use, environment, manufacturer guidance and inspection history.
Is PUWER the same as LOLER?
No. PUWER applies broadly to work equipment. LOLER adds specific requirements for lifting equipment and lifting operations. Lifting equipment can therefore be subject to both sets of regulations.
Where do I go for a LOLER Thorough Examination?
For cranes, hoists, lifting beams, slings, shackles and other lifting equipment, visit Durham Lifting's dedicated LOLER Inspections & Thorough Examinations page.
Need a PUWER work equipment inspection?
Speak to Durham Lifting about the equipment you need reviewed, inspection records or the appropriate next step for your site.