Work Equipment & Machinery – Health & Safety Guidance

Safe Use of Work Equipment and Machinery in the Workplace

Work equipment and machinery are essential in many industries but pose significant health and safety risks if not properly managed. This guidance provides an overview of common hazards, legal requirements, safe working practices, and relevant training for safe operation.

What Is Work Equipment?

Work equipment includes any machinery, appliance, tool, or installation used at work, including powered and non-powered tools, lifting equipment, conveyors, presses, saws, and other mechanical or electrical devices. Safe use and maintenance are essential to prevent accidents, injuries, and fatalities.

Key Hazards & Risks

  • Contact with moving parts, leading to cuts, crush injuries, amputations, or entanglement.
  • Mechanical failure, e.g., unexpected movement, component failure, or collapsing structures.
  • Electrical hazards, including electric shock, short circuits, or fires.
  • Noise & vibration, and ergonomic risks from prolonged or repetitive use.
  • Manual handling risks when lifting or transporting equipment.
  • Poorly maintained machinery leading to malfunction or loss of control.

Legal Responsibilities

Employers must ensure the safety of work equipment under UK law, including:

Safe Work Practices

Selection & Suitability

  • Choose equipment suitable for the task, capable of performing its function safely.
  • Check that all machinery complies with relevant safety standards and has current inspection records.
  • Ensure guards, protective devices, and emergency stops are fitted and operational.

Training & Competence

  • Only allow trained and competent personnel to operate machinery.
  • Provide regular refresher training and familiarisation with new or modified equipment.
  • Include instruction on hazards, emergency procedures, and correct use of PPE.

Maintenance & Inspection

  • Schedule regular inspections, servicing, and maintenance in accordance with manufacturer guidance.
  • Keep records of maintenance and inspections to demonstrate compliance.
  • Report defects immediately and remove unsafe machinery from service.

Operating Safely

  • Ensure machinery is set up correctly and all safety guards/devices are in place.
  • Follow safe start-up, operation, and shutdown procedures.
  • Avoid bypassing safety devices or taking shortcuts.
  • Maintain a safe distance and ensure clear communication with colleagues.

Environmental & Ergonomic Considerations

  • Ensure adequate lighting, ventilation, and space around machinery.
  • Manage noise and vibration exposure, and provide appropriate PPE.
  • Consider ergonomic design and posture to prevent strain and injury.

Relevant Training Courses

  • Machinery Safety Awareness – Introduction to hazards and safe working practices for all employees.
  • PUWER Compliance Training – Understanding and complying with the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations.
  • LOLER & Lifting Equipment Training – Safe use of lifting machinery and compliance with regulations.
  • Machine Guarding & PPE Training – Correct use of guarding, protective devices, and personal protective equipment.

Safe use of work equipment and machinery requires careful planning, proper selection, thorough training, regular inspection, and adherence to established procedures. By implementing robust safety management, employers can reduce risks, protect workers, and maintain compliance with legal obligations.

Related Content