Understanding defibrillators as work equipment

Your defibrillator is now classed as work equipment under the PUWER category (Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998) as mandated by the Health and Safety Executive. This classification has important implications for businesses and organisations across the UK.

Frequently asked questions

At Puwer Regulatory Services, we are committed to ensuring your defibrillators meet all safety criteria. We understand you may have questions regarding these regulations. Here are some common queries and our detailed responses.

What is the most important thing to know about defibrillators as 'Work Equipment'?

The most crucial point is that your defibrillator is legally categorised as 'work equipment' under the PUWER (Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998} by the Health and Safety Executive. This means it falls under specific regulatory requirements for safety and maintenance.

Why should businesses care about this classification?
Businesses should care because non-compliance with PUWER regulations can lead to significant legal penalties, including fines and potential prosecution. More importantly, ensuring your defibrillator is properly maintained guarantees it will function correctly in an emergency, potentially saving a life and fulfilling your duty of care to employees and visitors.

What is PUWER?
PUWER stands for the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1991. These regulations place duties on people and companies who own, operate or have control over work equipment. PUWER requires that equipment provided for use at work is safe for use, maintained in a safe condition and inspected to ensure it continues to be safe.

Do these regulations apply to all businesses?
Yes, if you provide or use work equipment, including defibrillators, in a business context, then the PUWER regulations apply to you. This is regardless of the size of your company or the industry you operate in. From small businesses to large corporations, compliance is mandatory.

What common worries do people have about defibrillator safety?
Common worries include ensuring the device is always ready for use, understanding maintenance schedules, knowing legal obligations, and verifying that staff are trained. Our inspection service addresses these by performing a 12-point check and issuing a safety certificate.

What does a safety inspection involve?
A safety inspection by Puwer Regulatory Services involves a comprehensive 12-point check of your defibrillator. This covers aspects such as battery life, pad expiry dates, operational readiness, visual condition, and environmental suitability, ensuring it meets all safety criteria.

How often should a defibrillator be inspected?
While PUWER doesn't specify an exact frequency, it mandates regular inspections to ensure continued safety. We recommend annual inspections to comply with regulations and ensure optimal functionality. More frequent checks might be necessary depending on the environment and usage.

What happens if my defibrillator fails an inspection?
If your defibrillator fails an inspection, we will provide a detailed report outlining the issues and recommending corrective actions. We can also advise on necessary repairs or replacements to ensure your device becomes compliant and safe for use.

Ensure your defibrillator is compliant

Don't leave the safety of your workplace to chance. Understand your obligations under PUWER and ensure your defibrillator is always ready when it matters most. Puwer Regulatory Services is here to help you navigate these requirements with ease and confidence.