PUWER 1998 & the implications for electricians

The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER) 1998 represents a cornerstone of workplace safety legislation in the UK, with particular significance for the electrical industry. PUWER regulations establish mandatory requirements for the safe provision and use of work equipment, ensuring both worker safety and legal compliance.

For electricians, understanding and implementing PUWER is essential for maintaining professional standards and protecting themselves and others from workplace hazards.

These regulations establish mandatory requirements for the safe provision and use of work equipment, ensuring both worker safety and legal compliance.

Scope and Application

PUWER 1998 encompasses a broad range of equipment used in electrical work, including hand tools, power tools, testing devices, and diagnostic equipment. The regulations apply to all electrical test equipment, from simple voltage indicators to sophisticated diagnostic instruments.

Personal protective equipment (PPE), while covered primarily by separate regulations, must also meet PUWER requirements when used as work equipment.

The regulations apply to all employers, self-employed electricians, and equipment hire companies operating in the UK electrical sector. This includes both commercial electrical contractors and sole traders, making compliance a universal requirement across the industry.

Key Requirements Equipment Selection

All work equipment must be suitable for its intended use and maintain CE marking (or UKCA marking post-Brexit) where required. Risk assessments must be conducted before equipment selection, considering factors such as the working environment, user competence, and potential hazards. Equipment must meet relevant British Standards and be appropriate for the voltage levels and conditions in which it will be used.

Maintenance

Regular maintenance schedules must be established and documented. This includes routine inspections, calibration of test equipment, and immediate attention to any defects. Records must be kept of all maintenance activities, including dates, actions taken, and responsible persons.

Training and Competency

Users must receive adequate training on equipment operation and safety procedures. This includes initial training, regular updates, and specific instruction for new or modified equipment. Records of training must be maintained and regularly reviewed.

Specific Electrical Considerations

Portable electrical equipment requires particular attention under PUWER. PAT testing must be conducted at appropriate intervals, with frequency determined by risk assessment and equipment type.

High-voltage testing equipment demands additional safety measures and specific user competencies.

Working environments must be assessed for factors that could affect equipment safety, such as moisture, temperature, and access restrictions. Emergency procedures must be established and communicated to all users.

Compliance and Documentation

Comprehensive record-keeping is essential for PUWER compliance. This includes:

• Equipment registers detailing all work equipment
• Maintenance and inspection logs
• Calibration certificates
• Training records
• Risk assessment documentation

Regular reviews of all documentation ensure continued compliance and effectiveness of safety measures.

Conclusion

PUWER 1998 compliance is fundamental to safe electrical work practices. Electricians must maintain awareness of their obligations under these regulations and ensure continuous compliance through proper equipment selection, maintenance, training, and documentation. Regular review and updating of procedures help maintain safety standards and legal compliance while protecting workers and the public.

Chris May: CMIOSH | BSG Regional Manager

For further guidance, electricians should consult the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) website, BS 7671 (Wiring Regulations), and relevant trade association guidelines. Professional certification bodies also provide valuable resources for maintaining PUWER compliance within the electrical industry.

Supporting documentation is also available on the BSG Hub: MS 43 Record of Inspection PUWER & L22 PUWER