05 Jun 2026
WHAT EQUIPMENT IS COVERED BY PUWER? FULL UK GUIDE
Many UK businesses assume PUWER only applies to large industrial machinery, but the regulations actually cover a much wider range of workplace equipment. Understanding exactly what equipment is covered by PUWER is essential for maintaining legal compliance, protecting employees, and reducing the risk of accidents at work.
The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER) place legal duties on employers, self-employed workers, and anyone responsible for workplace equipment. Whether you operate forklifts in a warehouse, use power tools on-site, or provide employees with office equipment, PUWER may apply.
For a full overview of the legislation itself, visit the official PUWER resource page at Lifting Equipment Store PUWER Regulations Guide
What Is PUWER?
PUWER stands for the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998. The regulations were introduced to ensure that all equipment used in the workplace is:
- Suitable for its intended use
- Maintained in a safe condition
- Inspected where necessary
- Used only by trained and competent persons
- Equipped with appropriate safety measures
PUWER applies to almost every industry in the UK, including:
- Construction
- Manufacturing
- Warehousing
- Agriculture
- Engineering
- Logistics
- Retail
- Offices and commercial premises
The regulations work alongside the Health and Safety at Work Act and are enforced by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).
WHAT EQUIPMENT IS COVERED By PUWER?
In simple terms, PUWER covers almost any equipment used at work that could pose a risk to health and safety.
This includes:
- Machinery
- Tools
- Workplace appliances
- Access equipment
- Lifting equipment
- Powered equipment
- Mobile plant
- Workstations
If employees use equipment during work activities, PUWER is likely to apply.
Types of Equipment Covered Under PUWER
Machinery
Industrial machinery is one of the most common categories covered by PUWER. Examples include:
- CNC machines
- Presses
- Conveyor systems
- Packaging machinery
- Cutting machines
- Industrial saws
- Automated production equipment
Employers must ensure machinery is properly guarded, regularly maintained, and safe to operate.
Powered Equipment
Powered equipment used in workplaces also falls under PUWER. Examples include:
- Forklift trucks
- Pallet trucks
- Compressors
- Generators
- Pressure washers
- Welding equipment
- Mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs)
In many cases, this equipment may also fall under additional regulations such as LOLER.
Hand Tools and Power Tools
Many businesses overlook the fact that PUWER applies to hand tools. Examples include:
- Drills
- Grinders
- Sanders
- Nail guns
- Circular saws
- Impact drivers
Even smaller tools must be maintained, inspected, and suitable for the task being carried out.
Access Equipment
Equipment used for working at height is typically covered by PUWER alongside the Work at Height Regulations. Examples include:
- Ladders
- Mobile towers
- Access platforms
- Scaffold towers
- Steps and podiums
Employers must ensure access equipment is stable, suitable, and regularly inspected.
Lifting Equipment
Lifting equipment falls under PUWER but is also specifically regulated by LOLER. Examples include:
- Hoists
- Cranes
- Lifting beams
- Slings
- Shackles
- Forklift trucks
- Chain blocks
For more detailed guidance on workplace equipment compliance, visit Lifting Equipment Store PUWER Regulations Guide.
Workplace and Office Equipment
PUWER does not only apply to industrial environments. Office and commercial workplaces may also use equipment covered by the regulations, including:
- Shredders
- Adjustable desks
- Printers and photocopiers
- Workstations
- Kitchen appliances
- Warehouse scanning systems
| Equipment Type | Covered by PUWER? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Hand drills | Yes | Requires safe use and maintenance |
| Forklift trucks | Yes | May also require LOLER inspections |
| Ladders | Yes | Requires inspection and safe use |
| CNC machines | Yes | Must have guarding and maintenance |
| Office shredders | Yes | Considered workplace equipment |
| Mobile plant | Yes | Requires competent operators |
| Compressors | Yes | Subject to inspection and maintenance |
| Kitchen appliances at work | Yes | If used by employees |
| Company vehicles | Partly | Certain workplace use aspects apply |
| Conveyor systems | Yes | Requires guarding and emergency stops |
What Equipment Is NOT Covered by PUWER?
Although PUWER applies to most workplace equipment, there are some exclusions.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
PPE is usually covered under separate PPE regulations rather than PUWER. Examples include:
- Hard hats
- Gloves
- Safety glasses
- High-visibility clothing
Hazardous Substances
Hazardous substances are covered by COSHH regulations instead. Examples include:
- Chemicals
- Solvents
- Dusts
- Fumes
Structural Areas of Buildings
Fixed parts of buildings are generally not covered under PUWER. Examples include:
- Walls
- Ceilings
- Permanent staircases
- Structural fabric
| Covered by PUWER | Not Covered by PUWER |
|---|---|
| Machinery | Hazardous substances |
| Power tools | PPE |
| Forklifts | Structural building fabric |
| Access equipment | Purely domestic equipment |
| Workplace appliances | Personal items not used for work |
| Workstations | Non-work-related equipment |
Employer Responsibilities Under PUWER
PUWER places several legal responsibilities on employers and equipment operators.
Equipment Suitability
Equipment must be:
- Suitable for the intended task
- Used in the correct environment
- Appropriate for the risks involved
Using unsuitable equipment can significantly increase the likelihood of workplace accidents.
Maintenance Requirements
All workplace equipment must be maintained in an efficient state and kept in good repair.
This includes:
- Planned preventative maintenance
- Repairs
- Replacement of damaged components
- Lubrication and servicing
Maintenance schedules should be documented and followed consistently.
Inspection Requirements
Certain equipment requires formal inspection under PUWER.
Inspections may be needed:
- Before first use
- At regular intervals
- After installation
- After exceptional events
- Following major repairs
Inspection frequency depends on the type of equipment and associated risks.
Employee Training
Employees must receive adequate information, instruction, and training.
This includes:
- Safe operating procedures
- Emergency stop procedures
- Equipment limitations
- Hazard awareness
- Maintenance reporting procedures
Only competent individuals should operate high-risk machinery.
Safety Measures and Guards
Employers must ensure equipment includes appropriate safeguards.
Examples include:
- Emergency stop controls
- Machine guards
- Isolation switches
- Warning signs
- Safety interlocks
These measures help reduce the risk of entanglement, crushing, cutting, and other workplace injuries.
PUWER Inspection and Maintenance Process
Maintaining compliance under PUWER requires a structured inspection process.
Common PUWER Compliance Mistakes
Many businesses unintentionally breach PUWER due to misunderstandings about the regulations.
Common mistakes include:
- Assuming PUWER only applies to heavy machinery
- Failing to inspect hired equipment
- Using damaged hand tools
- Missing maintenance records
- Inadequate operator training
- Lack of documented inspections
- Removing machine guards
- Ignoring ageing equipment risks
These issues can result in enforcement action, fines, or serious workplace injuries.
Industry-Specific Examples of PUWER Equipment
Construction Industry
Typical equipment includes:
- Excavators
- Power tools
- Cement mixers
- MEWPs
- Generators
Construction sites often contain multiple categories of equipment covered under PUWER.
Warehousing and Logistics
Examples include:
- Forklift trucks
- Pallet trucks
- Conveyor systems
- Dock levellers
- Racking-related equipment
Regular inspection and operator training are essential in warehouse environments.
Manufacturing
Manufacturing businesses commonly use:
- CNC machines
- Presses
- Robotic systems
- Conveyor lines
- Industrial saws
These environments often require detailed maintenance schedules and formal inspection records.
Agriculture
Agricultural equipment covered by PUWER may include:
- Tractors
- PTO shafts
- Harvesters
- Hydraulic systems
- Workshop tools
Agricultural machinery presents significant risks if poorly maintained.
Offices and Commercial Premises
Even office-based workplaces may use equipment covered by PUWER, such as:
- Adjustable desks
- Photocopiers
- Kitchen appliances
- Shredders
- Display equipment
| Industry | Typical PUWER Equipment |
|---|---|
| Construction | Power tools, excavators, MEWPs |
| Warehousing | Forklifts, conveyors, pallet trucks |
| Manufacturing | CNC machines, presses, robots |
| Agriculture | Tractors, PTO equipment |
| Offices | Shredders, desks, appliances |
PUWER vs LOLER: What’s the Difference?
PUWER and LOLER are closely related, but they serve different purposes.
| PUWER | LOLER |
|---|---|
| Covers general work equipment | Covers lifting equipment |
| Focuses on safe use and maintenance | Focuses on lifting operations |
| Applies to most workplace equipment | Applies only to lifting equipment |
| Requires suitability and training | Requires thorough examinations |
In many workplaces, lifting equipment must comply with both regulations simultaneously.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does PUWER apply to hand tools?
Yes. Hand tools and power tools used at work are generally covered by PUWER and must be maintained in a safe condition.
Does PUWER apply to ladders?
Yes. Ladders and access equipment used at work fall under PUWER and the Work at Height Regulations.
Is hired equipment covered by PUWER?
Yes. Employers remain responsible for ensuring hired equipment is safe and suitable for use.
Does PUWER apply to company vehicles?
Certain workplace use aspects of company vehicles may fall under PUWER, particularly where vehicles operate as work equipment.
Who is responsible for PUWER inspections?
Employers, duty holders, and those controlling equipment use are typically responsible for arranging inspections and maintenance.
How often should equipment be inspected under PUWER?
Inspection frequency depends on the type of equipment, usage levels, and associated risks.
Key Takeaways
Understanding what equipment is covered by PUWER is essential for maintaining workplace safety and legal compliance in the UK.
PUWER applies to a far wider range of equipment than many businesses realise, including:
- Machinery
- Hand tools
- Forklifts
- Access equipment
- Workplace appliances
- Mobile plant
- Workstations
Employers must ensure equipment is suitable, maintained, inspected, and operated safely by trained individuals.
For more information on compliance requirements, inspections, and workplace equipment regulations, visit Lifting Equipment Store PUWER Regulations Guide
