Pressure Systems Safety Guide
Pressure systems are widely used in industry to store or transport gases and liquids under pressure. While essential, they carry significant risks, including explosions, leaks, and equipment failure. This guide provides employers, operators, and safety managers with practical advice for managing these risks and staying compliant with UK regulations.
Understanding Pressure Systems
Pressure systems include vessels, boilers, pipes, and associated safety equipment. Hazards can arise from over-pressure, corrosion, poor maintenance, or operator error. Proper design, inspection, and operational controls are essential to prevent incidents.
Key Legal Responsibilities
- Comply with the Pressure Systems Safety Regulations 2000 (PSSR).
- Ensure only competent personnel operate and maintain pressure equipment.
- Carry out regular inspections, risk assessments, and preventative maintenance.
- Keep thorough records of maintenance, inspections, and any defects found.
Inspection and Maintenance
Regular inspections identify risks such as corrosion, fatigue, or mechanical failure. Pressure systems should be:
- Installed and operated according to manufacturer instructions and regulatory standards.
- Inspected internally and externally at defined intervals by competent personnel.
- Maintained with approved parts and tested for integrity after repairs.
Competence and Training
Employers must ensure staff handling pressure systems are trained and competent. Relevant training may include:
- Pressure Systems Safety Regulations (PSSR) Awareness
- Boiler and Vessel Operation and Maintenance
- Risk Assessment for Pressure Equipment
- Inspection and Testing of Pressure Systems
- Emergency Response and Incident Management
Emergency Procedures
Pressure system failures can escalate quickly. Organisations should have emergency procedures covering:
- Detection of leaks or pressure anomalies
- Safe shutdown and isolation of affected systems
- Evacuation protocols and coordination with emergency services
- Investigation and reporting under RIDDOR where required
Related Training
- RIDDOR course
- Accident Investigation training
- IOSH Managing Safely
- NEBOSH Incident Investigation Course
- Workplace Health and Safety
- Civils & Utilities training courses
- Construction Safety courses
- CITB courses
- NEBOSH courses
- IOSH courses
- Risk Assessment training
- First Aid training
- Fire Safety training