What are the penalties for non-compliance with PUWER?

The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER) is a set of regulations in the UK that aim to ensure the safety of work equipment and machinery in the workplace. These regulations apply to all industries, including the lift industry, and failure to comply with PUWER can result in serious penalties.

Non-compliance with PUWER can have a range of consequences, from fines and enforcement notices to criminal prosecution. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is responsible for enforcing PUWER and has the power to issue improvement notices, prohibition notices, and even prosecute companies that fail to comply with the regulations.

One of the key requirements of PUWER is that all work equipment, including lifts, must be safe for use and properly maintained. This means that lifts must be regularly inspected and serviced by competent professionals to ensure they meet safety standards. Failure to do so can result in accidents and injuries, putting employees and members of the public at risk.

In the event of an accident or injury caused by non-compliance with PUWER, companies can face legal action and financial penalties. This can include fines of up to £20,000 for each breach of the regulations, as well as potential compensation claims from injured parties. In cases of serious breaches, company directors and managers can also be held personally liable and face criminal prosecution.

In addition to the financial penalties, non-compliance with PUWER can also damage a company’s reputation and lead to loss of business. Customers and clients are increasingly looking for companies that prioritize safety and compliance with regulations, and failure to meet these standards can result in lost contracts and a damaged reputation.

To avoid these penalties, companies in the lift industry must ensure they have robust safety procedures in place and regularly review and update their equipment maintenance and inspection schedules. This includes training employees on how to use equipment safely and providing them with the necessary personal protective equipment.

Overall, compliance with PUWER is essential for companies in the lift industry to ensure the safety of their employees and customers, as well as to avoid the serious penalties that come with non-compliance. By prioritizing safety and investing in proper maintenance and inspection procedures, companies can protect themselves from legal action and maintain a positive reputation in the industry.