The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER)

The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER). PUWER places duties on people and companies who own, operate or have control over work equipment. It requires that equipment provided for use at work is suitable for its intended use, safe, and maintained in a safe condition. This has relevance to industrial fire safety, for example, by requiring that machinery with the potential to be an ignition source is properly maintained to prevent overheating or sparks. It also covers the controls for equipment, ensuring that emergency stop controls are clearly identifiable and accessible, a crucial feature in any emergency, including a fire. This page provides a structured summary, key provisions, and practical guidance on the application of Provision & Use of Work Equip Regs to UK fire safety engineering, building design, and Building Safety Act compliance.