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The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER) require every employer to ensure that any work equipment provided is:

• Safe and suitable for its intended purpose

• Used correctly in the place and conditions for which it is provided

• Regularly maintained to remain safe and in good working order

Equipment must never be allowed to deteriorate to a point where it puts people at risk. This means employers must put routine, planned maintenance programmes in place to prevent hazards before they arise.

The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 (Regulation 3) also place a legal duty on employers and many employees:

 

“It shall be the duty of every employer and self-employed person to comply with the provisions of the Regulations in so far as they relate to matters which are within his control.”

 

 

 

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