PUWER stands for Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations.
These UK regulations require employers to ensure all workplace equipment is safe, suitable, maintained and used by trained, competent people.
What Is PUWER?
The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER) form a core part of UK health and safety law. PUWER applies to all workplaces, including warehouses, logistics hubs and industrial environments.
Under PUWER, employers must ensure that work equipment is:
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Suitable for its intended use
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Installed correctly and safely
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Maintained in a condition that does not create risk
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Inspected at appropriate intervals
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Used by trained and authorised employees
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Taken out of service if unsafe
In warehouses, PUWER covers equipment such as pallet racking, forklifts, conveyors, pallet trucks, hand tools and lifting devices.
Why PUWER Matters for Warehouses
Warehouses depend heavily on structural and mechanical equipment. PUWER helps create a safer working environment by ensuring equipment is selected, used and maintained correctly. It supports compliance with HSE expectations and reduces the risk of accidents linked to poor maintenance or unsuitable equipment.
PUWER also works alongside other guidance such as HSG 76, which covers safe use of warehouse racking. For help maintaining safe racking, visit:
https://ableracking.co.uk/racking-inspections/
FAQs About PUWER
What does PUWER stand for?
Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations.
Is PUWER a legal requirement?
Yes. PUWER is a legal requirement under the Health and Safety at Work Act, making compliance mandatory for employers.
Who does PUWER apply to?
PUWER applies to anyone responsible for providing, managing or using work equipment in the workplace, including warehouse managers, supervisors and employers.
Does PUWER apply to warehouse racking?
Yes. Racking is considered work equipment and must be safe, suitable, inspected and maintained in line with PUWER.
What is considered work equipment?
Anything used by employees at work, including pallet racking, forklifts, conveyors, lifting equipment, tools and mechanical handling devices.
What are employers responsible for under PUWER?
Employers must ensure equipment is suitable, installed correctly, maintained safely, inspected regularly and used by trained staff. Unsafe equipment must be taken out of use immediately.
How often should warehouse equipment be inspected under PUWER?
Inspection frequency depends on risk level, usage and equipment type. Most warehouses combine daily checks with scheduled internal inspections and periodic expert assessments.
Where can a business get help with PUWER compliance?
Able Racking provides services that support safe, compliant storage systems, including racking repairs and racking training:
https://ableracking.co.uk/racking-repairs/
https://ableracking.co.uk/racking-training/
