Common queries about Engineering Inspection

If your organisation owns or operates work equipment, there are legal obligations you must comply with. Regular engineering inspections will help to ensure both statutory and health and safety duties are met. You may also have equipment that doesn’t require inspection from a statutory perspective, but it is always good practice to be able to demonstrate good health and safety routines, which may save money in the long run by identifying a potential issue before it comes to fruition.

These are vital for creating a safe working environment for your employees and complying with health and safety legislation.

Unsafe operating practices can often lead to accidents which may result in injuries to your employees or the public. This can lead to costly liability claims often resulting in criminal prosecutions for companies or individuals.

The HSE’s approved codes of practice and industry standards and manufacturers’ recommendations require the demonstration of sensible risk management practices. Complying with this, can greatly improve your chances of avoiding criminal prosecution.

Typically, plant requiring inspection would include: Lifting equipment, LEV systems, Electrical equipment, Boiler plant and pressure systems, work equipment. This is not a comprehensive list. If in doubt contact the HSE, qualified Engineer Surveyor or your local authority.

For most new equipment a manufacturer or supplier would typically have carried out a thorough examination of the equipment, which should be evidenced in a Declaration of Conformity. An exception would be pressure plant, such as an air receiver or steam boiler, which would need to be inspected. Again, if in doubt ask.

An Engineer Surveyor would be best placed to give advice on this. Be aware as the frequency could span from every month to every few years.

  • Make sure everything that needs inspecting is on your list.
  • Have ready all documentation required for each piece of equipment.
  • Schedule any ‘down time’ for the equipment to be inspected.
  • Make appropriate staff and facilities available for the smooth running of the inspection.
  • Provide the Surveyor with a safe working environment and safe access.

For any help or guidance on the need for an Engineering Inspection or process, please don’t hesitate to get in contact.