Work Equipment Safety

Every year there are a number of accidents at work from using work equipment, including machinery. Many are serious and some are fatal. The law therefore requires that employers  select and install work equipment properly, use it carefully and make sure it is maintained to protect the health and safety of those who may be affected by the way it is used.

If you are responsible for work equipment you must ensure that it is safe. This can be achieved through:

• Giving consideration to potential health and safety risk prior to purchasing work equipment
• sensible risk assessment
• following manufacturer's recommendations for its use and maintenance
• where necessary for safety, arranging for regular inspection or thorough examination by a competent person.
• ensuring employees are trained and competent.
• taking reasonable steps to ensure new work equipment complies with the relevant European requirements for safe design and construction.

In addition:

• You must not use, or permit the use of, unsafe work equipment.
• You must ensure that dangerous work equipment is not used by untrained people. The only exception is those undergoing training, who must be supervised by a trained, competent person.

You will find further information on the safe use of work equipment by following the links on this page. If you need further advice, please contact the Health and Safety Advisory Service.