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What is a PUWER Assessment and What Does it Signify?
There are many workplace safety regulations in place and the sheer number can prove to be slightly confusing to the average individual. Considering the extent of Health & Safety regulations, you might not be entirely familiar with a PUWER assessment. What does this type of examination entail and why is it critical in ensuring the health and safety of on-site employees? Managers need to be aware of the metrics associated with this type of assessment as well as the benefits that it can provide.
What Types of Companies Require a PUWER Assessment?
We need to keep in mind that these assessments are just as important for small businesses as they are to larger firms. Those who are self-employed, managers and anyone whose role it is to ensure the safe operation of on-site equipment will frequently fall into this category. Furthermore, a good deal of training will likely be required when dealing with machinery that is known for specific hazards.
PUWER is an abbreviation for Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations. First ratified in 1998, the main focus is to provide safe equipment and adequate training to those who work with everyday equipment that may present specific hazards. This provision effectively replaced a framework of the same name that dated back to 1992 thanks to some additional stipulations. There are several variables which will be taken into account including:
• Whether the machinery in question is suited for its intended use.
• If it has been examined by a worker with the correct level of competence.
• Whether or not the equipment has been properly maintained.
• Ensuring that the device in question is only operated by those who possess the proper training and certification.
What Does a PUWER Examination Mean for Customers?
There are several goals which can be attributed to this assessment and any relevant training. The most obvious is that it will provide peace of mind in the knowledge that accidents are much less likely to occur. In the same respect, customers who purchase a certain piece of machinery can remain confident that it is the correct configuration for the task at hand. While the risks and hazards within the modern workplace may not be eliminated in its entirety, the main takeaway point is that they should be mitigated to the greatest possible extent. ST&L is an authority on PUWER assessment and our team is happy to answer any questions you might have regarding this matter.
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