PUWER equipment guide

Construction Plant PUWER Inspection

PUWER inspections for construction plant and mobile work equipment across Scotland, including controls, guarding, access and safety devices.

Inspection basis

What duty holders need to know.

Construction plant is exposed to rough ground, weather, frequent transport and changing operators. PUWER inspection focuses on the safety-related parts needed for the machine to be operated, adjusted and maintained without unacceptable risk.

The employer or contractor controlling the plant should define suitable inspection frequencies and ensure machines are inspected after installation, relocation or exceptional events where those circumstances could affect safety.

Check the relevant HSE guidance ↗
Examination scope

What we examine on construction plant.

The final scope depends on design, use and condition. These are the components and records commonly considered.

  • Access, steps, handrails and operator station
  • Controls, brakes and steering
  • Guards and protection devices
  • Visibility aids, cameras and mirrors
  • Warning systems and emergency stops
  • Tyres, tracks, chassis and articulation
  • Attachments and locking systems
  • Leaks, deterioration and structural damage
Typical findings

Problems the examination may identify.

  • Damaged access steps or handrails
  • Inoperative cameras or alarms
  • Guarding removed for maintenance
  • Attachment-lock defects
  • Fluid leaks affecting safe use
  • Poor visibility through damaged glazing

Book a construction plant inspection

Tell us what equipment you operate, where it is and when it is due. We will confirm the right inspection scope and arrange a practical site date.

FAQs

Construction plant inspection FAQs

How is a PUWER inspection different from a service?
A service maintains the machine. A PUWER inspection checks the safety-related condition and protective measures needed for safe use and records the result.
When does LOLER also apply?
LOLER applies where the plant is used as lifting equipment, such as an excavator lifting suspended loads or a telehandler lifting with forks.
Who sets the PUWER inspection interval?
It should be set through risk assessment by someone competent, taking account of manufacturer guidance, conditions, use and previous inspection findings.