UKC00589F Cover 10/6/13 15:10 Page 1

KNOW HOW
KNOW HOW
Engineering Inspection Guide

Engineering Inspection Guide

Royal & Sun Alliance plc (No. 93792). Registered in England and Wales
at St Mark's Court, Chart Way, Horsham, West Sussex RH12 1XL.
Authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the
Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority.

UKC00589G June 2013

Engineering Customer Centre: 0845 678 2982

Lines are open Monday to Friday

8.30am to 5.30pm.

For your protection, telephone calls may be

recorded or monitored.
CONTENTS

4 Our Business is Protecting People

10 Inspection Frequencies

13 Lifting Equipment

29 Pressure Systems

43 Electrical

55 Local Exhaust Ventilation

65 Power Presses

77 Other Work Equipment

91 General Frequently Asked Questions

4 Our Business is Protecting People

OUR BUSINESS IS
PROTECTING PEOPLE

Our business is all about protecting people and providing peace

of mind. Leave engineering inspection to us and we can help you
look after the safety of your workforce and your legal
obligations, secure in the knowledge that your plant and
machinery are safe to operate.

As a nationally accredited and independent inspection body, we

will work with you to put the right type of inspection service in
place. All our inspection activities are accredited by UKAS or
NICEIC. We also have capabilities in equipment certification
and management system certification, as well as being a notified
body for the Machinery, Lifts and Pressure Equipment Directives.
A founder member of SAFed, all our work is carried out to
relevant standards.

Of course, not all our customers are the same, so we believe in

being flexible. Whether the requirement is for single or multiple
inspections, or the provision of detailed technical advice at short
notice, we work in partnership with our customers to provide a
 Our Business is Protecting People 5

solution that is tailored to suit your business needs at a

competitive price.

If you need to see more of us, that’s fine, we can arrange for an
engineer to spend time on site to help with issues that may
change on a day-to-day basis. In addition, our surveyor team is
able to reach sites across the UK at short notice.

Our experienced engineers will assist you how to comply

with your legal obligations under current health and safety
legislation, and to operate a safer, more effective working
environment - one that is characterised by minimal disruption
and optimal efficiency.
6 Our Business is Protecting People

We inspect a wide range of equipment and with the support of

laboratory and research equipment, we also provide a range of
examination and analysis procedures. More details on the type of
equipment we inspect can be found later in this guide.

To ensure communication with us is always clear and

straightforward, we offer you a single point of contact for all
your safety inspection needs.

Such a refreshing approach is hardly surprising for a business that

grew out of National Vulcan and British Engine. For generations,
both were acknowledged as the leading inspection companies in
the world. Combining these businesses created a wealth of
technical skill and expertise.

This Engineering Inspection Guide is just one part of our added

value service. It has been designed to help you understand the
mandatory and recommended inspection frequencies for different
types of plant and machinery.
 Our Business is Protecting People 7

It’s your inspection

To help us ensure the safety of any people affected by

our inspection, we need you to prepare for our
engineer’s visit.

When making an appointment our engineer will explain

the level of preparation required.

The purpose of the examination is to make sure the

equipment is safe for continued use, it does not replace
[Link] are legal obligations on users of
work equipment to ensure it is maintained in efficient
working order.

Where our examination reports highlight defects

affecting the safe use of equipment, a copy of the report
must be submitted to the enforcing authorities. If several
reports are submitted, they may question the quality of
your maintenance programme.

To ensure safety during the examination process our

engineer will carry out a site-specific risk assessment.
8 Our Business is Protecting People

A copy of this assessment is available on request. Where

actions are required you will be notified.

Information at your fingertips

This guide contains a wealth of useful information

in an easily accessible and readily digestible format.

There are definitions for a number of different categories

of plant including lifting equipment, pressure systems,
local exhaust ventilation systems, electrical equipment,
power presses and process machinery.

The guide contains details on the relevant legislation

applicable to each of these categories, together with
notes on the types of examinations required, and the
frequency within which they need to be carried out.

We have also included a number of line drawings in each

section to give a simple illustration of the different types
of equipment we inspect.
A selection of frequently asked questions covers many of
the issues that people need to be aware of when
considering and arranging plant inspection.

So whether it’s LOLER, COSHH, PUWER, PSSR or

Electricity at Work regulations, this guide gives you the
information you need at your fingertips.

We have collated the information on inspection

frequency to create easy-to-use charts, which are
included within this booklet. Reference is made to
categories of plant in general use, across a range of
typical business sectors that require inspection services.
Please note, these charts and the accompanying notes
are for guidance only and are not exhaustive.

For more detailed information on inspection

requirements, or on any other aspects of engineering
inspection or risk management, you should talk to your
RSA representative or your usual insurance contact.

Turn page for inspection frequency information

 Inspection Frequencies 10

INSPECTION
FREQUENCIES

Open out and use with

individual Inspection Charts


11 Inspection Frequencies

INSPECTION
FREQUENCIES
Explanatory Notes

6 Inspection is required / implied in [Link] number

indicates the typical frequency in months.

6 Inspection is required in [Link] number indicates

likely inspection frequency which is variable
according to usage or risk assessment.

36 Inspection is recommended at the indicated initial

frequencies by guidance note 3 to BS7671:2001
Requirements for Electrical Installations. Frequency
of inspection may also be determined by local
licensing authority for some locations.

* Inspection is recommended by the IEE* Code of

Practice for in service inspection and testing of
electrical equipment. Inspection frequencies vary
considerably depending upon the type of
equipment and environment.

26 Most air pressure plant is inspected every 26

months, however, well maintained welded air
receivers built to suitable standards may be
inspected every 48 months.

6 Inspection is required under Regulation 33 of

PUWER 1998 part [Link] number indicates
frequency in months.
* IEE Institution of Electrical Engineers

Use with individual Inspection Charts

This inspection guide includes an inspection frequency chart
for each technical discipline. These charts are intended as a
guide only and deal with categories of plant in general use which
are commonly found in the industries and locations specified.
Whilst correct to the best of our knowledge, no legal liability
or responsibility can be accepted for the information contained.
These charts are not legally authoritative and reference
should be made to the relevant legislation or the appropriate
enforcing authority.
 Lifting Equipment 13

LIFTING EQUIPMENT
14 Lifting Equipment

LIFTING EQUIPMENT

Definitions
Lifting equipment is work equipment used for lifting and lowering
loads. It includes the attachments used for anchoring, fixing or
supporting equipment such as cranes, lifts, excavators and lift trucks.

Accessories for lifting includes any chain, rope, sling, or

component kept for attaching loads to machinery for lifting.

Examination scheme means a suitable scheme drawn up by a

competent person for the thorough examination of lifting
equipment at such intervals as may be appropriate for the
purpose described within the regulations.

Work equipment means any machine, appliance, apparatus, tool

or installation for use at work.

Relevant Legislation
The requirements for the examination of lifting equipment are
found within the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment
Regulations 1998 (LOLER). LOLER applies over and above the
more general requirements of the Provision and Use of Work
 Lifting Equipment 15

Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER). Unlike previous legislation,

which applies to specific industry sectors, PUWER and LOLER
apply to all places of work.

LOLER covers work equipment that lifts or lowers a [Link]

following points need to be considered:

• The type of load being lifted

• The risk of the load falling and striking a person or object and
the consequences
• The risk of the equipment striking a person or object
and the consequences
• The risk of the lifting equipment failing or falling over whilst in use.

LOLER is concerned with many aspects of lifting operations and

lifting equipment such as strength, stability and positioning of lifting
equipment and the planning of lifting operations. However this
guide is limited to the examination requirements of LOLER. An
assessment of the risks associated with the equipment must be
made to identify where the provision for thorough examination
and inspection within LOLER applies.

The thorough examination of lifting equipment must be carried

out by persons of sufficient competence who are independent
and impartial to allow objective decisions to be made. RSA can
provide thorough examinations where required.
16 Lifting Equipment

Different categories of examination are identified within LOLER:

Examinations should be carried out:

• Initially, before equipment is taken into service (there

are some exceptions for CE marked new equipment)

• Post installation, where safety is dependent on

correct installation

• Where lifting equipment is exposed to conditions which

cause deterioration that could lead to a dangerous situation,
periodic examinations are required

• Following any exceptional events such as an accident or long

period without use.

Examination Frequency
LOLER continues to prescribe periods between thorough
examinations of lifting equipment.

These are:

• Every six months for lifting equipment used for lifting / lowering
persons. For example, passenger lifts, access platforms, window
cleaning equipment

• Every six months for lifting accessories (‘tackle’).

For example, chain slings, eyebolts and shackles
 Lifting Equipment 17

• Every 12 months for all other lifting equipment not falling

into either of the above categories. For example, cranes and
lift trucks.

However, LOLER offers a ‘risk based’ approach to examination.

This means that customers can arrange for a scheme of
examination to be drawn up taking account of their specific
equipment, environment and operations to extend periods
between examinations where the risks are acceptable.
18 Lifting Equipment

Lifting Equipment

Excavator

Excavators
Hydraulic excavators are used widely in 2) Composite machines are normally
the construction industry and are normally known as back-hoe [Link] include
fitted with a bucket attachment. Machines an articulated boom mounted to the rear
use a diesel engine as a primary source of of the vehicle that can slew through 180
power whilst a hydraulic system controls degrees (back-actor or back-hoe) and a
movement of all the major functions. loading shovel / lifting forks mounted on
the front of the machine. Whilst the
Hydraulic excavators fall into two
capacity of the loading shovel is normally
categories:
fixed, different sizes of bucket or lifting
1) Centre post machines that slew attachments may be used in conjunction
360 degrees and may be mounted with the back-actor.
on wheels or [Link] utilise an
articulated boom on which a variety of
attachments can be [Link] enables the
machine to be used for crane duties,
bucket (trenching) duties, magnet duties
and grab duties.
 Lifting Equipment 19

Lift Truck Mobile Elevating Work Platform

Lift Trucks Mobile Elevating Work Platforms

Lift trucks are used extensively across all Mobile elevating work platforms
industrial sectors, with capacities varying (MEWPs), also known as ‘cherry pickers’,
from one tonne to 50 [Link] larger ‘beanstalks’ and ‘access platforms’.They are
machines are mainly used in freight used in all sectors of industry and
handling (shipping containers), forestry and provide a temporary platform for persons
steel-making industries. working at heights.
Lift trucks are normally fitted with a load All MEWPs have the capacity to move
fork (hence ‘fork lift truck’), however, a from one location to another either as a
variety of other attachments can be fitted purpose built machine with integral road
to most trucks, for example, bale grabs, wheel steering facilities, or mounted on a
carpet poles, crate tines and man-riding lorry or van. MEWPs are normally
working platforms. Side loaders are mainly electric / hydraulic or diesel hydraulic
used for lifting and transporting long units and utilise a scissor mechanism,
bulky items such as stacks of [Link] articulated jib or telescopic mast to lift a
lifting function simply raises the load cage or platform to the desired position
onto a side deck, which forms an integral where the work is to be carried out.
part of the [Link] load can then be Controls are mounted on / in the
transported significant distances. platform / cage.
20 Lifting Equipment

Gantry / Chain Block Mobile Crane

Gantry / Chain Blocks Mobile Cranes

Normally mounted on runway tracks or These types of cranes are favoured
manual cranes, powered hoist blocks are by the crane hire industry as they can be
widely used in all industry sectors. used for a wide variety of lifting
Normally electrically or pneumatically operations in many sectors of industry.
powered, these units hoist loads via a Mobile cranes are normally self-erecting
load hook and integral steel chain or lorry-mounted machines incorporating
wire rope. Lifting capacity can be as outriggers for extra stability and a
much as 10 tonnes. telescopic jib for improved reach. Modern
machines utilise diesel hydraulic drive
Winches are of similar design and can be
[Link] the average lifting capacity is
used for a variety of duties ranging from
about 50 tonnes, some mobile telescopic
hauling loads horizontally to lifting or
cranes are manufactured with a lifting
lowering loads in a vertical plane. Heavy-
capacity in excess of 1,000 tonnes.
duty units used in the shipbuilding
industry are capable of hauling
thousands of tonnes. Small units fitted to
road vehicles are frequently used for
both hauling and lifting duties.
 Lifting Equipment 21

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. A common ‘serious’ defect on lift trucks is wear in excess of
10% at the fork [Link] does the engineer have to report
this defect and what can be done to rectify worn fork heels?

The engineer is bound by the guidance issued by the HSE and

information within BS ISO 5057. Guidance is provided on
inspection of fork arms, surface cracks, straightness of blade, fork
angle, difference in height of fork tip and of set of fork arms etc.
BS ISO 5057 rejects fork arms that are worn at the heel more
than 10% of the original thickness
of the metal.

We recommend repairs are only carried out by the fork arm

manufacturer. If welding is carried out, the welding method will need to
include welding preparation, pre-heating, stress relieving and re-heat
treatment within the manufacturer’s specification.

Use of mild steel materials and ordinary jobbing welding methods

are likely to result in an unsatisfactory and unsafe repair. Most
manufacturers do not even recommend welding at the heels of
the forks to replace metal removed by wear as this only replaces
the thickness and not the strength. Welding may in fact do further
harm by mismatching of metals, localised heating and lack of heat
treatment.
22 Lifting Equipment

Q. How often is a ‘thorough examination’ required on lifting

plant?

Under LOLER a ‘thorough examination’ is typically required every

12 months. Lifting attachments, accessories and machines for lifting
persons need examination every six months.

Q. Can I lift a person on my lift truck?

The only acceptable use of a lift truck lifting persons in

exceptional circumstances is using a specifically designed and
tested carrier or working platform. Purpose built units are
normally available from the manufacturer of the truck.

A more appropriate method of working at heights should be

employed such as permanent/temporary scaffold or a mobile
elevating work platform.

A person should not be lifted on the forks, pallet or bucket on

the front of a lift truck under any circumstances.

The recognised minimum examination frequency of a lift truck

used to lift a person is six months.
 Lifting Equipment 23

Q. The ‘thorough examination’ highlighted a serious defect

which has now been repaired. Does the item need to be
examined again?

The competent person who undertakes the thorough

examination states in his report that, ‘subject to any remedial
action to defects noted, which are or could become a danger to
persons, the equipment is safe to operate’.Therefore when repaired,
the equipment may be re-introduced back into service. However, the
plant owner must ensure that the serious defect is repaired in
accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and by persons
competent to undertake such work.
24 Lifting Equipment Lifting Equipment 26

Lifting Equipment Inspection Chart

TYPE OF BUSINESS

Hospitals, Healthcare and Nursing Homes

Plastics Manufacturers & Processors

Supermarkets, Shops & other Retail Outlets

Engineering & Manufacturing Works

Food Manufacturers & Processors

Hotels, Pubs, Clubs & Restaurants

Chemical & Petrochemical Works

Warehouses & Storage Facilities

Schools, Universities & Colleges

Other Factories & Workshops

Garages - Vehicle Workshops

Timber Merchants, Sawmills

Breweries & Bottling Plants

Dry Cleaners & Laundries

Shipyards & Boat Builders

Foundries - Non-Ferrous

Garages - Filling Stations

Theatres & Cinemas

Foundries - Ferrous
Construction Sites

Leisure Facilities
Office Buildings
Printing Works

Scrapyards
Quarries
Bakeries

Docks

Farms
TYPE OF PLANT, MACHINERY
AND EQUIPMENT

Passenger Lifts 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6
Other Equipment that Lifts Persons 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6
Cranes 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12
Other Lifting Equipment 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12
Lifting Accessories (Tackle) 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6
Vehicle Lifts 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6
See page 11 for
Fork Lift Trucks 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12
explanatory notes
27 Lifting Equipment

Turn over for

fold-out Inspection Chart


 Pressure Systems 29

PRESSURE SYSTEMS

Definitions
Relevant fluids include steam, gases under pressure and fluids that
are artificially kept under pressure and become gases upon release
into the atmosphere.

Pressure system means a system comprising one or more rigid

pressure vessels with associated pipework and protective devices.

Written Scheme of Examination is a document that identifies the

extent of the pressure system and outlines the examination
requirements.

Relevant Legislation
Inspection requirements for pressure systems are consolidated
within the Pressure Systems Safety Regulations 2000 (PSSR).The
regulations apply to users and owners of systems containing
‘relevant fluids’.

They require the whole system to be inspected in accordance

with its ‘Written Scheme of Examination’.
30 Pressure Systems

A Written Scheme of Examination is drawn up following a risk

assessment of the system.

It must:

• Clearly define the extent of, and items of plant included in, the
pressure system

• Detail the inspection frequency of relevant parts of

the system

• Be drawn up or certified by a competent person such as RSA.

In addition to thorough examination, which involves the system

being closed down and vessels opened up, a working examination
is also usually [Link] involves testing the system under
pressure and is sometimes more frequent than the thorough
examination.

Hot water boilers, operating at more than 100ºC, fall within PSSR.
However, it is recommended that all hot water boilers should be
inspected. Refrigeration and air-conditioning plant with combined
compressor motors exceeding 25kW fall within the regulations, but it
is also prudent to regularly inspect items below this cut-off.
 Pressure Systems 31

Examination Frequency

There is some flexibility in establishing the frequency for thorough

examinations permitted under [Link] thorough examination
frequency indicated in our inspection chart are those specified in
the SAFed publication ‘Pressure Systems - Guidelines on
Periodicity of Examinations’.
32 Pressure Systems

Pressure Systems

Horizontal Multitubular Steam Boiler

Horizontal Multitubular Steam Boilers

Horizontal multitubular steam boilers
are sometimes referred to as package
boilers or shell [Link] items can
range from 1m to 4m in diameter and
are typically used for generating steam
or high-pressure hot water to be used
in various process / manufacturing
processes.
 Pressure Systems 33

Refrigerating Plant Heating Boiler

Refrigerating Plant Heating Boilers

Refrigerating plant is usually used for air Heating boilers are in common use for
conditioning in office blocks, where all types of premises and can range from
chilled water is used to control the air’s a central heating boiler, as seen in many
humidity. Larger and more complex homes, to very large cast iron sectional
types are used in the frozen food heating boilers for heating large office
industry to both freeze and keep all complexes.
types of food frozen.
34 Pressure Systems

Air Receiver Jacketed Pan

Air Receivers Jacketed Pans

Air receivers, commonly referred to as Jacketed pans are usually open topped
air compressors, air vessels and air tanks, semi-circular pans with a heating space
are widely [Link] are found in surrounding the pan, typically steam
garages, tyre repair depots and anywhere heated and used for cooking food or
that requires compressed air. where heat is necessary to assist in a
process.
 Pressure Systems 35

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Do all air receivers need to be inspected? What is the
calculation for deciding when an air receiver needs to comply
with statutory regulations?

Within the PSSR the question is asked: is the pressure

x volume of the pressure vessel greater than 250 bar litres?
If YES - then a written scheme and inspection certificate will need
to be issued to comply with the legislation.

This calculation takes the pressure rated in bars and this is

multiplied by the capacity of the tank in [Link] is commonly
found on a plate on the receiver.

e.g. MWP 11 bar 50 litres capacity

In this example, the MWP (maximum working pressure) is

11 bar multiplied by the 50 litre capacity, which gives a rating of
550 bar litres.

1 bar is equivalent to approximately 15 psi. As a general rule, air

receivers with a diameter in excess of 12 inches operating at
150 psi will need to comply with the legislation.
36 Pressure Systems

The other components of the air compressor set

(i.e. compressor and motor) do not need a statutory inspection. If
an air compressor has no receiver it does not need an inspection.
Hydrovane manufacture compressors have no receivers and are
consequently exempt from the legislation.

Q. What is the difference between an air receiver and an air

compressor? Do they both need an inspection?

An air compressor has three component parts:

• Driving motor

• Compressor - which compresses the air

• Air receiver - a pressure vessel, which stores the compressed air.

The air receiver is the only part of the air compressor unit that
needs a ‘statutory’ [Link] air compressor and driving
motor do not need an inspection - but should be regularly
serviced and maintained by the user.

Some air compressors only have two components - a driving

motor and an air [Link] delivery of compressed air is
immediate and the need to store air in a pressure vessel is not
required. Because these compressors do not have an air receiver
they do not need examination.

The term ‘compressor’ is also used for refrigeration compressors

on fridges, cold stores, freezers and air conditioning systems.
 Pressure Systems 37

Refrigeration compressors only require examination under

regulations where the driving motor exceeds 25kW. The majority of
commercial cold stores operate using motors well below this limit.

Q. How often do air receivers need to be examined?

An examination usually takes place once every 12 months.

However the type and frequency of examination are defined by
the written scheme.

For the majority of air receivers the first examination is a full,

internal thorough [Link] next inspection, 12 months later,
is a working external examination and the following year it
requires another thorough [Link] means there is a
thorough examination every two years.

With the agreement of the customer, the written scheme can be

amended so that both the thorough and external examination are
completed at the same time and therefore only one examination
takes place - every two years.

Q. The thorough examination highlighted a serious defect

which has now been repaired, does the item need to be
examined again?

The item should be examined during the repair and a final

examination carried out on completion of the repair.
38 Pressure Systems Pressure Systems 40

Pressure Systems Inspection Chart

TYPE OF BUSINESS

Hospitals, Healthcare and Nursing Homes

Plastics Manufacturers & Processors

Supermarkets, Shops & other Retail Outlets

Engineering & Manufacturing Works

Food Manufacturers & Processors

Hotels, Pubs, Clubs & Restaurants

Chemical & Petrochemical Works

Warehouses & Storage Facilities

Schools, Universities & Colleges

Other Factories & Workshops

Garages - Vehicle Workshops

Timber Merchants, Sawmills

Breweries & Bottling Plants

Dry Cleaners & Laundries

Shipyards & Boat Builders

Foundries - Non-Ferrous

Garages - Filling Stations

Theatres & Cinemas

Foundries - Ferrous
Construction Sites

Leisure Facilities
Office Buildings
Printing Works

Scrapyards
Quarries
Bakeries

Docks

Farms
TYPE OF PLANT, MACHINERY
AND EQUIPMENT

Steam Boilers & Steam Ovens 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14

Steam Pressure Plant 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26
Hot Water Boilers (>100°C) 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14
Air Pressure Plant 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26
Air Conditioning Plant (>25kW) 48 48 48 48 48 48 48 48 48 48 48 48 48 48 48 48 48 48 48 48 48
Refrigerating Plant (>25kW) 48 48 48 48 48 48 48 48 48 48 48 48 48 48 48 48 48 48
See page 11 for
Other Pressure Systems 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26
explanatory notes
41 Pressure Systems

Turn over for

fold-out Inspection Chart


 Electrical 43

ELECTRICAL

Definitions
System means an electrical system in which all the electrical
equipment is, or may be, electrically connected to a common
source of electrical energy and includes such source and such
equipment.

Danger means risk of ‘injury’ which in turn means death or

personal injury from any part of the ‘electrical system’.

Relevant Legislation
The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 contain a comprehensive
list of legal requirements designed to prevent the risk of death or
personal injury from the use of electricity at all places of work,
regardless of size or number of employees.

The regulations require all systems to be maintained so as to

prevent danger. Furthermore HSE guidance states that regular
inspection and testing is an essential part of any maintenance
programme. Regulation 6 of PUWER also requires that work
equipment, which may be subject to deterioration liable to result in
a dangerous situation, requires inspection at suitable intervals.
44 Electrical

The current version of BS7671 ‘Requirements for Electrical

Installations’ (the Institution of Electrical Engineers (IEE) Wiring
Regulations) is the accepted general guidance for the design and
maintenance of electrical [Link] other
documentation also exists concerning the use of electricity in
mines, quarries, petro-chemical installations and places of
entertainment.

Examination Frequency
The examination frequency is dependent upon the type of business
and the risks presented but is typically once every three or five
years. Some trades may require annual examination for licence
purposes (for example, places of entertainment, petrol stations, and
nursing homes).

The main purpose of our examination is to identify serious defects

likely to create an imminent risk of injury to any person.
 Electrical 45

Electrical

DISTRIBU ALTERNA
TOR TOR

COIL

Y.R.

TEMP
S.U.

OIL S.U
.

STARTER

FIREWAL
L
PLUG

BALLA
ST
BATTERY
Wiring Circuit

Wiring Circuits
It is hard to imagine any location that does
not incorporate an electrical wiring
installation of some form. Even a storage
warehouse will have some basic electrical
power requirements such as lighting,
heating and a security system. Larger
locations will have a complex distribution
network required to deliver the demands
of electrically driven plant and equipment.
46 Electrical

Motor Air Handling Plant

Motors Air Handling Plant

Motors can be found in most domestic Air handling plant is used extensively in
and industrial locations and have a massive domestic and industrial installations to
scope of physical size and power. control the flow of temperature-
controlled air throughout a location. Sizes
can range from small units, hidden within
an office’s false ceiling, to very large units
in plant rooms or rooftops.
 Electrical 47

Transformer Switchboard

Transformers Switchboard
Transformers are found in most The switchboard is commonly the main
industrial locations and can be ‘step control station for the distribution of
down’ or ‘step up’ depending on voltage electrical supply to a location. Switchgear
requirements. Electricity is carried across is a heavy-duty switch designed to make
distances at high voltage and ‘stepped and break the main electrical supply to a
down’ using a transformer where it is location or large item of machinery.
distributed at low voltage to various
sources of application.
48 Electrical

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What responsibilities do businesses have for electrical
systems?

The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989, contain a

comprehensive list of legal requirements designed to prevent the
risk of death or personal injury from the use of electricity in all
places of work, regardless of size or number of employees.

The regulations require ‘all systems to be maintained so as to prevent

danger’. Furthermore, HSE Guidance states ‘regular inspection and
testing is an essential part of any maintenance programme.’

The main purpose of the examination service offered by RSA is

to identify serious defects likely to create an imminent risk of
injury to any person.

The extent of our examination covers the accessible parts of the

low voltage distribution system including power and mains lighting
installations.

Our service does not normally include the fixed electrical plant or
portable appliances, but we can quote for these separately.

The examination frequency is dependent on the type of business

and the risks presented, but is typically once every three or five
years. Some trades may require annual examination, for example,
places of entertainment, petrol stations and nursing homes.
Electrical 49
 50 Electrical

See page 11 for

explanatory notes
S.U.
TEMP

PLUG
COIL

FIREWALL
DISTRIBUT
OR
Electrical Inspection Chart

BALLAS
T
ALTERN

OIL S.U
.
ATOR

BATTER
Y
STARTE
R
Y.R.

TYPE OF PLANT, MACHINERY

AND EQUIPMENT

Portable Electrical Appliances

Electrical Installations & Equipment

Bakeries
Breweries & Bottling Plants
Chemical & Petrochemical Works
Construction Sites
Docks
Dry Cleaners & Laundries
Plastics Manufacturers & Processors
Schools, Universities & Colleges
Engineering & Manufacturing Works
Other Factories & Workshops
* * * * * * * * * * *

Farms
Food Manufacturers & Processors
Foundries - Ferrous
Foundries - Non-Ferrous
Garages - Vehicle Workshops
Garages - Filling Stations
TYPE OF BUSINESS

Hospitals, Healthcare and Nursing Homes

Hotels, Pubs, Clubs & Restaurants

Office Buildings
Printing Works
Quarries
Scrapyards
Shipyards & Boat Builders
Supermarkets, Shops & other Retail Outlets

Theatres & Cinemas

Timber Merchants, Sawmills
Warehouses & Storage Facilities
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Leisure Facilities
36 36 12 3 12 12 36 60 36 36 36 36 36 36 36 12 60 60 60 36 6 36 36 60 36 36 36 36
Electrical 52
53 Electrical

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fold-out Inspection Chart


 Local Exhaust Ventilation 55

LOCAL EXHAUST
VENTILATION

Definitions
Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV) is equipment that controls,
captures or contains airborne releases at ‘or close to’ the point of
emission by means of ventilation and conveys the pollutant to a
point where it can be safely collected or released.

Relevant Legislation
The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002
(COSHH) apply to all work activities where substances hazardous
to health are [Link] regulations state that, ‘every employer
shall ensure that the exposure of his employees to substances
hazardous to health shall be prevented, or where it is not
reasonably practicable, adequately controlled.’ Where a control
needs to be applied, local exhaust ventilation is employed.

The following regulations also impose duties to provide and

maintain LEV equipment to control airborne contaminants:

• The Control of Asbestos at Work Regulations 2006

• The Control of Lead at Work Regulations 2002.
56 Local Exhaust Ventilation

Examination frequency
The COSHH regulations require that LEV plant is examined by a
competent person and this examination should be completed at
intervals dependent on the trade / business and the application of
the equipment.

For example:

• Metal / shot blasting of raw castings require an examination

every month

• Non-ferrous metalworking requires an examination every

six months

• All other applications require an examination every 14 months.

The examination frequencies indicated in our chart apply to

processes and substances commonly found in the industries
specified. However, some LEV equipment may require more
frequent examinations than indicated.
 Local Exhaust Ventilation 57

Local Exhaust Ventilation

LEV System

LEV Systems
LEV systems use extract ventilation The inlet is connected to a fan or air
to prevent or reduce the level of mover and the extracted air is usually
airborne hazardous substances from discharged into the atmosphere or
being breathed in by people in the returned to the workplace after having
[Link] draw pollutants away being cleaned to make it safe for release.
from a process or operation that is likely
to release a hazardous substance into
the workplace and consists of an inlet
such as a hood, slot, booth or cabinet
placed around or close to the point of
release of the substance.
58 Local Exhaust Ventilation

Fume Cupboard Spray Booth

Fume Cupboards Spray Booths

Fume cupboards are partially enclosed Spray booths and enclosures are widely
workspaces that limit the spread of [Link] are many different
fumes to operators and other persons in designs depending on the type and size
close proximity. Fume cupboards are of the article being sprayed. Spray
fitted with a vertically sliding sash, which booths can be broadly classified by the
can be adjusted to vary the degree of method of ventilation (side or down-
the enclosure. Aerodynamic design is as draught air flow) or the method of
important as the face velocity in ensuring removing particulate from the exhaust
that the contaminant is effectively air (water wash, baffles or dry filters).
controlled and released safely.
 Local Exhaust Ventilation 59

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Does LEV equipment need an examination?

LEV plant is found in a range of trades from small garages

and paint shops to major woodworking and metalworking
[Link] equipment is designed to remove the harmful
vapour, dust or fumes from the work area identified after a
COSHH assessment.

The COSHH regulations require that LEV plant is examined by a

competent person, this examination should be completed at
intervals dependant on the trade / business and the application of
the equipment. For example, metal / shot blasting requires an
examination every month but non-ferrous metal working
equipment requires an examination every six months.

Q. What is the ‘Intended Operating Performance?’

The intended operating performance is usually set at the time of

the initial appraisal.

The initial appraisal serves two major functions. Firstly, to show

that the plant works and meets its specified performance to
control exposure. Secondly, to determine the operating
parameters or ‘intended operating performance’ that will provide
satisfactory levels of [Link] initial appraisal will form part of
the assessment of health risks to comply with Regulation 6 of
COSHH.
See page 11 for
explanatory notes
60 Local Exhaust Ventilation

Local Exhaust Ventilation Inspection Chart

TYPE OF PLANT, MACHINERY

AND EQUIPMENT

LEV - Dust Extraction

LEV - Fume / Vapour Extraction
LEV - Shot Blast Units

Bakeries
14

Breweries & Bottling Plants

Chemical & Petrochemical Works
14
14 14 14

Construction Sites
Docks
Dry Cleaners & Laundries
Plastics Manufacturers & Processors
Schools, Universities & Colleges
14 14 6
6

Engineering & Manufacturing Works

6

Other Factories & Workshops

Farms
Food Manufacturers & Processors
6 14 14 6
1

Foundries - Ferrous
1

Foundries - Non-Ferrous
6

Garages - Vehicle Workshops

6 14
14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14

Garages - Filling Stations

TYPE OF BUSINESS

Hospitals, Healthcare and Nursing Homes

14
14

Hotels, Pubs, Clubs & Restaurants

Office Buildings
Printing Works
14

Quarries
14 6

Scrapyards
6

Shipyards & Boat Builders

Supermarkets, Shops & other Retail Outlets
14 14

Theatres & Cinemas

Timber Merchants, Sawmills
14
14

Warehouses & Storage Facilities

Leisure Facilities
14
Local Exhaust Ventilation 62
63 Local Exhaust Ventilation

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fold-out Inspection Chart


 Power Presses 65

POWER PRESSES

Definitions
Power Presses are power driven mechanical presses which
have a flywheel and clutch and are used wholly or partly to work
cold metal.

Interlocking Guard Systems prevent actuation of the press until

the guard screen is fully closed or, in the case of a photo-electric
guard, the screen has been cleared of any obstruction.

Relevant Legislation
Examination requirements for power presses are within the
Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998
(PUWER). Part IV of PUWER deals specifically with these
requirements and is supported by an Approved Code
of Practice.

The regulations require users of power presses to appoint a

person to set tools and carry out a simple inspection of the press
during every working [Link] is little difference between
PUWER part IV and the Power Presses Regulations 1965 & 1972,
which PUWER 1998 Part IV revoked.
66 Power Presses

Examination Frequency
The inspection frequencies for power presses and press brakes
noted in our chart relate to items with interlocking, automatic or
photo-electric [Link] must be subject to a thorough
examination every six months. Items with fixed fences must be
examined at 12 monthly [Link] is no flexibility in the
regulations to apply a risk based approach to power press
examinations. Hydraulic presses do not fall into the scope of
PUWER part IV but are treated as such for best practice.
 Power Presses 67

Power Presses

Power Press

Power Presses
Power presses are power driven results from accidents caused by trapping
mechanical presses or press brakes, between the tools of a power [Link]
which have a flywheel and clutch and are varied work demands on power presses
wholly or partly used to work metal. and the wear to which the guarding
Power presses are among the most mechanisms are subject means that the
dangerous machines used in industry. integrity of the guarding is constantly
Amputation or serious injury usually under threat.
68 Power Presses

Press Brake Guillotine

Press Brakes Guillotines

Press brakes are a subset of power Whilst guillotines and hydraulic presses
presses with the same examination, with interlocking guards do not come
inspection and maintenance under the regulations that cover power
requirements. presses, they are considered to be
dangerous machines and guidance
dictates that they should be examined at
least once every six months when fitted
with interlocking or photo-electric guards.
 Power Presses 69

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Do power presses and press brakes need an examination?
What are my responsibilities as a user?

These machines are used to work metal in a variety of industries

from small metal fabrication companies to major car and engine
[Link] capacity can range from small ‘bench’ type
presses at half a ton to presses which impart 12,000 tons of
pressure.

They are mechanically driven and in the case of a power press,

operate using a clutch and flywheel. A power press clutch is a
device designed to impart the movement of the flywheel to any
tool when required.

An important aspect of power presses and press brakes is the

guarding employed to protect the [Link] type of guards can
vary from fixed, to movable, to electronic or photo-electric
devices and the type of guard determines how often presses are
examined.
70 Power Presses

Regulation 32 of PUWER requires power presses and press

brakes to be examined by a competent person and this
examination should be completed at intervals dependent on the
type of guards fitted to the press. As a general rule the frequency
is every 12 months for presses with fixed guards, and at six
monthly intervals for all others.

Q. Do I have to dismantle the clutch on my power press for

every examination?

[Link] competent person will require you to dismantle parts of

the press but the frequency for this work is dependent upon
many factors including the press duty, the operating environment
and the general condition of the [Link] engineer will not be
able to complete the thorough examination until the work has
been done.

Q. Do I have to inspect the press myself?

[Link] must designate an ‘appointed person’ to inspect and test

the guards and safety devices on each press every day that they
are in use (within the first four hours of each working period) and
after setting, resetting or adjustment of the [Link] appointed
person must be adequately trained and competent to do the
work on each type of press.
Power Presses 71
 72 Power Presses

See page 11 for

explanatory notes
Power Presses Inspection Chart

TYPE OF PLANT, MACHINERY

AND EQUIPMENT

Guillotines (Factories)
Guillotines (Printing Works)
Press Brakes (Light Guard)
Power Presses (Fixed Guards)
Power Presses (Interlocking Guards)

6
6
6

Bakeries
6
6
6

Breweries & Bottling Plants

6
6
6

Chemical & Petrochemical Works

6

6
6

Construction Sites
6
6
6

Docks
6
6
6

Dry Cleaners & Laundries

6
6
6

Plastics Manufacturers & Processors

6
6
6

Schools, Universities & Colleges

6
6
6

Engineering & Manufacturing Works

6
6
6

Other Factories & Workshops

6
6
6

Farms
6
6
6

Food Manufacturers & Processors

6
6
6

Foundries - Ferrous
6
6
6

Foundries - Non-Ferrous
6
6
6

Garages - Vehicle Workshops

6
6
6

Garages - Filling Stations

TYPE OF BUSINESS

6
6
6

Hospitals, Healthcare and Nursing Homes

6
6
6

Hotels, Pubs, Clubs & Restaurants

6
6
6

Office Buildings
6

6
6

Printing Works
6
6
6

Quarries
6
6
6

Scrapyards
6

6
6

Shipyards & Boat Builders

6

6
6

Supermarkets, Shops & other Retail Outlets

6
6
6

Theatres & Cinemas

6
6
6

Timber Merchants, Sawmills

6
6
6

Warehouses & Storage Facilities

6
6
6

Leisure Facilities
12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12

12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12
Power Presses 74
75 Power Presses

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fold-out Inspection Chart


 Other Work Equipment 77

OTHER WORK EQUIPMENT

Definitions
Work equipment means any machine, appliance, apparatus, tool
or installation for use at work.

Inspection is that task which determines if the work equipment

can be operated, adjusted and maintained safely and that any
deterioration can be detected.

Relevant Legislation
The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998
(PUWER) covers the use, maintenance and inspection of all work
equipment. PUWER Regulation 6 requires that where the work
equipment can deteriorate to a dangerous level it must be
inspected at suitable [Link] intervals will depend upon the
risk and the rate of [Link] extent of the inspection will
also depend on the potential risks and must be carried out by a
person competent for the task.

The definition of work equipment is very wide and covers almost

everything used during work [Link] inspection required
78 Other Work Equipment

under PUWER Regulation 6 will also vary considerably from a

simple user check, which would verify functionality, to a much
more involved inspection by an independent third party such
as RSA.

Examination Frequency
The type and frequency of inspections required is not specified
within the regulation but will depend on installation and how
quickly machinery or safety devices are likely to deteriorate and
give rise to a significant risk to the operator or other workers.

In addition, appropriate Standards, or Government and Trade

Association Guidance Notes, will contain relevant information,
which may be used to determine the required inspection
frequency for a wide variety of process machinery.
 Other Work Equipment 79

Other Work Equipment

Dock Leveller

Dock Levellers
Dock levellers are designed to
accommodate a wide variety of lorry
tailboard heights and as such are, in
effect, adjustable loading ramps. Hinged to
and forming an integral part of the
loading bay floor, the free end
of the dock leveller / ramp is adjusted to
suit the height of the incoming lorry
[Link] allows goods to be loaded /
unloaded with the use of fork lift trucks
or pallet trucks.
80 Other Work Equipment

Conveyor System Tractor

Conveyor Systems Tractors

Conveyor systems are mostly powered Tractors are found in a variety of
by diesel engine or an electricity supply. industrial applications, and can be fitted
They are used in many industry sectors with many different attachments, which
and utilise a continuous belt or roller may cause them to require consideration
arrangement as a means to transfer as lifting equipment. With non-lifting
goods from one level to [Link] attachments they would require
can be either inclined or horizontal. inspection as work equipment.
LOLER would not generally apply except
as ‘best practice’.
 Other Work Equipment 81

Bulldozer / Loading Shovel Escalator

Bulldozers / Loading Shovels Escalators

Bulldozers, tractors, graders and scrapers Escalators are not deemed to be lifting
are purpose-built machines used equipment within the law but are
primarily, but not exclusively, in the referred to in the Workplace, Health,
construction industry. In the most part, Safety & Welfare Regulations. Health &
this generic group consists of diesel Safety Executive guidance recommends
engine tractor units mounted on wheels thorough examination at intervals not
or tracks. Each variation normally carries exceeding six months. Escalators are
a permanently fixed attachment such as a potentially very dangerous machines
dozer blade or loading shovel etc. with many trapping and tripping hazards.
82 Other Work Equipment

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. How does PUWER 98 affect my business?

The Use of Work Equipment Directive (UWED) was

implemented in the UK in 1992 by the introduction of the
Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER).

This directive has been amended and the Amending Use of Work
Equipment Directive (AUWED) has been implemented in the UK
by two sets of regulations, namely PUWER 98 and LOLER.

PUWER 98 revokes and replaces PUWER and applies to the

provision and use of all work equipment including mobile and
lifting equipment. PUWER 98 also revokes and replaces legislation
relating to Power Presses and Woodworking Equipment. LOLER
applies over and above the general requirements of PUWER 98
to those specific activities, which involve lifting equipment
and operations.

Approved codes of practice and guidance notes are now available

for both [Link] are both very detailed documents and
are available from HMSO Bookshops or from the HSE website.

PUWER 98 applies to employers, the self-employed and people

who have control of work equipment. PUWER 98 should be
 Other Work Equipment 83

considered alongside other health and safety legislation, in

particular the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and the
general requirements of other regulations to undertake risk
assessments and put corrective measures in place.

The term ‘inspection’ is used within PUWER 98 and should

not be confused with the examination undertaken by an
independent competent person like an RSA engineer. ‘Inspection’
within PUWER 98 for work equipment builds upon the current
but often informal practice of regular in-house inspection of
work equipment.

‘Inspection’ does not normally include checks covered by

maintenance [Link] purpose of an inspection is to identify
whether the equipment can be operated, adjusted and maintained
safely and that any deterioration, for example wear and tear, can
be detected and remedied before an unacceptable risk occurs.
84 Other Work Equipment
Other Work Equipment 85
See page 11 for
explanatory notes
86 Other Work Equipment

Other Work Equipment Inspection Chart

TYPE OF PLANT, MACHINERY

AND EQUIPMENT

Conveyor Systems
Guarded Process Machinery
Injection Moulding Machines
Escalators
6

Bakeries
6

Breweries & Bottling Plants

6

Chemical & Petrochemical Works

6

Construction Sites
6

Docks
6

Dry Cleaners & Laundries

6

Plastics Manufacturers & Processors

6

Schools, Universities & Colleges

6

Engineering & Manufacturing Works

6

Other Factories & Workshops

6

Farms
6

Food Manufacturers & Processors

6

Foundries - Ferrous
6

Foundries - Non-Ferrous
6

Garages - Vehicle Workshops

6

Garages - Filling Stations

TYPE OF BUSINESS

Hospitals, Healthcare and Nursing Homes

6

Hotels, Pubs, Clubs & Restaurants

6

Office Buildings
6

Printing Works
6

Quarries
6

Scrapyards
6

Shipyards & Boat Builders

6

Supermarkets, Shops & other Retail Outlets

6

Theatres & Cinemas

6

Timber Merchants, Sawmills

6

Warehouses & Storage Facilities

6

Leisure Facilities
12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12
12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12
12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12
Other Work Equipment 88
89 Other Work Equipment

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fold-out Inspection Chart


 Frequently Asked Questions 91

Frequently Asked Questions

General

Q. What is a competent person?

Different levels of competency are defined in HSE regulations.

These can cover training, operation of machinery and daily
inspection of working parts.

In terms of thorough examinations of machinery and plant to find

defects likely to cause damage, the competent person is generally
defined as:

A person who has the appropriate practical and theoretical

knowledge and actual experience of the plant he is examining to
enable him to detect defects or weaknesses and to assess their
importance in relation to the safety and continued use of the plant.

In some regulations the academic qualifications of a competent

person are clearly defined. In other regulations it is stressed that
the competent person must be sufficiently independent and
impartial to allow objective decisions to be made.
92 Frequently Asked Questions

This definition of competency for plant examinations has been

tested following numerous court cases. It is not sufficient that you
have used the item of plant for many years, or if you are the
person who regularly maintains the [Link] must have the
theoretical knowledge, as well and be sufficiently independent, so
that no conflict of interest exists.

For example, if you are the person maintaining the machine you
may be unlikely to report any serious defect to the HSE.

Q. What constitutes a serious defect?

For pressure equipment, the term ‘serious defect’ is used

to describe a defect found at the time of examination that
presents an ‘imminent danger’ to persons working in the vicinity.
For lifting equipment the term ‘serious defect’ involves ‘an existing
or imminent risk of serious personal injury’ to persons using the
machine or working in the close vicinity.

The competent person who undertakes the thorough

examination and identifies such defects will report them as
requiring attention either immediately, or within a specified time
period. When the regulations require it, he will forward a copy of
his examination report to the relevant enforcing authority -
typically the local Health and Safety Executive.
 Frequently Asked Questions 93

Examples of serious or safety related defects include:

• Defective safety components such as safety valves or overspeed

governors

• Worn or wasted structural components such as forks, chassis or

pressure envelopes

• Damaged lifting ropes or chains

• Incorrect or bridged fuses.

Other ‘defects’ may also be identified during an examination, which

are not considered to present any danger to [Link] other
defects and observations will normally receive attention at the
next routine maintenance of the equipment and because they are
not felt to provide an imminent risk of injury they are not
reported to local enforcing authorities.

Q. The engineer sent a copy of the serious defect report to

HSE. Does he have to do this?

Yes. As the competent person he is duty bound under the

relevant regulation to send a copy report to the enforcing
authority within a specified time limit if, in his opinion, the defect is
likely to cause imminent danger to the person using the machine
or persons working in the vicinity.
94 Frequently Asked Questions

However, this should never be a surprise to the customer

as the engineer will always explain the defect, its seriousness in
relation to the continued use of the plant, and he will leave a hand
written note at the time of his visit detailing the problem(s).

When the HSE call on the customer it will reflect badly if they
have taken no action to remedy the situation. If they have already
repaired or have made arrangements to replace the defective
item, this is often sufficient to satisfy the HSE inspector and no
further action is normally taken.

Q. What is an EC Declaration of Conformity?

An EC Declaration of Conformity is issued with new products

which legally need to comply with any relevant EC Product
Directive before the product can be supplied in the UK or
anywhere else in the European Community.

Fork lift trucks are manufactured in line with the Machinery

Directive and air receivers must comply with the Pressure
Equipment [Link] Declaration of Conformity, along with
CE marking, is confirmation that the product meets
the essential requirements for safety.

The Declaration lasts for the lifespan of the machine unless major
alterations are made. It must be passed to any new owner when
the item is sold.
 Frequently Asked Questions 95

For lifting equipment the declaration allows new plant a short

period of exemption for thorough [Link] is normally
12 months providing safety does not depend upon installation
conditions.

Q. I have a brand new item of plant. Does this require an

inspection prior to being put into service?

If it is pressure plant, for example an air receiver or steam boiler,

the answer is yes. If it is lifting plant and safety does not depend
upon installation conditions - when the declaration of conformity
initial period has expired - an inspection is normally required
12 months after being purchased.

Q. Can thorough examinations be carried out by the

maintenance company?

Yes. However, plant owners must ensure that the competent

person who undertakes a thorough examination has appropriate
practical and theoretical knowledge.
He must also have experience of the equipment to be thoroughly
examined in order to detect defects and weaknesses and to
assess their importance in relation to the safety and continued use
of the equipment.
96 Frequently Asked Questions

It is essential that the competent person is sufficiently independent

and impartial to allow objective decisions to be [Link] does
not mean that competent persons must be necessarily employed
from an external company. If employers and others within their
own organisations have the necessary competence they can
use it.

However, they must ensure that their examiners have genuine

authority and independence to ensure that examinations are
properly carried out and that the necessary recommendations
arising from them are made without fear or favour.

It is generally accepted that enforcing authorities and inspection

bodies accredited to BS EN45004, are independent and impartial.