Statutory Inspections & Why They Are Not Just Another Expensive Responsibility

In any workplace, it is vital to ensure that the equipment you are using is in good working order and is safe to use. In many countries, there are legal requirements for certain types of work equipment to be inspected regularly and failure to comply with these regulations can result in large fines or even legal action.

In the UK, the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) is our regulator for Health & Safety in the workplace and their aim is to prevent death or injury at work and they will also take enforcement action against those who have knowingly defied the law.

The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER) is a set of regulations controlled by the UK HSE that places certain duties on people and companies that operate working equipment, irrespective of ownership.

This is where Statutory Inspections come into effect.

The HSE website (Inspection of work equipment - Work equipment and machinery (hse.gov.uk)) states that the purpose of inspections is to “identify whether work equipment can be operated, adjusted, and maintained safely, with any deterioration detected and remedied before it results in a health and safety risk. Not all work equipment needs formal inspection to ensure safety and, in many cases, a quick visual check before use will be sufficient. However, inspection is necessary for any equipment where significant risks to health and safety may arise from incorrect installation, reinstallation, deterioration or any other circumstances.”

So, what types of equipment require statutory inspections? And how often should the inspections be done? The answer will depend on the industry and the type of equipment you use, as some may fall under more specific legislation, for example, lifting equipment will fall under Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER).

Examples of equipment that may require statutory inspections include:

• Cranes and hoists
• Forklifts
• Air/Oil Receivers
• 4 Post Lifts
• Boilers
• Electrical equipment including EV Charging Stations.
• Personal Protective Equipment

This is by no means an exhaustive list.

Aside from being a statutory and regulatory obligation, are there other reasons why these inspections can be a benefit?

Yes! There are certainly other benefits to these inspections, such as:

Safety

The safety of your employees should be a top priority. Faulty equipment can lead to accidents and injuries, which can result in lost productivity, medical expenses, and even enforcement action from HSE. These inspections ensure that equipment is in good working order and that it meets all safety requirements.

Increased lifespan of equipment

Statutory inspections also help to identify any maintenance issues that need to be addressed. Catching these issues early can prevent more serious problems from developing and prolong the lifespan of the equipment.

Improved efficiency

Well-maintained equipment operates more efficiently, which can save time and money. When equipment is operating at peak performance, it reduces downtime and increases productivity.

Peace of mind

Knowing that your equipment is in good working order can give you peace of mind. You can focus on your work without worrying about the safety of your employees or the condition of your equipment.

In conclusion, by investing in regular inspections, you will protect your employees, your business, and your bottom line.