Power Press Inspection
Power Presses and PUWER Part IV
Power presses carry their own, stricter regime under Part IV of PUWER 1998. A competent person must thoroughly examine the press and its guards at least every 12 months where only fixed guards are fitted, and at least every 6 months where it relies on interlocked guards or photoelectric light curtains.
On top of that, an appointed person must inspect and test the guards every working period. We carry out the thorough examination on site and report clearly on whether the press is safe to run.
Power Press PUWER
Regulation
PUWER 1998
Fixed guards only
Every 12 months
Interlocked or light guards
Every 6 months
Examined
On site
Report turnaround
Within 3 days
What's included
What's covered in a power press inspection
Guards and Interlocks
We examine the fixed, interlocked and automatic guards and confirm the interlocks stop the stroke when opened. Guards that are missing, adjusted out or defeated are the defect we flag hardest.
Photoelectric Devices
We test the light curtains across the detection zone and check the mounting distance against the press stopping time. A curtain mounted too close for the stopping time is a common and serious finding.
Clutch and Brake
We check the clutch and brake, or on hydraulic presses the valves and circuits that stop the ram, and confirm the press stops within its limits. Worn brake linings and overrun on mechanical presses are faults we see often.
Controls and Safety Systems
We test the two-hand controls, mode selection, emergency stops and single-stroke function, so the press only cycles when it should.
Structure, Tools and Records
We examine the frame, ram, crankshaft and flywheel guarding, check the tool setting arrangements, and confirm the guard check records are being kept.
How it works
Your power press's PUWER examination, start to finish
Every scheme your equipment is required to meet under UK regulation carried out by accredited engineers and backed by compliant reports.
1
Book
Tell us the presses and your site, and we confirm a date and a fixed quote, usually same day.
2
On-site examination
A competent Engineer Surveyor attends and thoroughly examines each press and its guards under PUWER Part IV.
3
Compliant report
Within three days you get your report of thorough examination, with any defects and timescales.
4
Reminders
We track the 6 or 12-monthly due date for each press and remind you before it falls due.
OUR STANDARDS
Press examinations with guarding front and centre
We take our responsibilities seriously, upholding the highest standards of professionalism, quality and safety across every aspect of our operations.
Quality Assurance
Thorough examinations from experienced Engineer Surveyors who know how press guarding gets defeated.
Responsibility
A rigorous process that keeps every press on its statutory interval and your business compliant with PUWER.
Care
A press does not give second chances, so we check every guard and stop as if the operator's hands depend on it.
GET IN TOUCH
Request a Power Press Inspection
Tell us what presses need examining and when. We'll confirm availability and a competitive quote, usually the same day.
Call us
0208 050 3958
Based in
Reading, Berkshire: serving the South of England
● Hampshire
● Oxfordshire
● Northamptonshire
● Cambridgeshire
● Surrey
● Buckinghamshire
● London
FAQ
Power Press Inspection FAQs
How often does a power press need a thorough examination?
At least every 12 months if it has only fixed guards, and at least every 6 months if it uses interlocked guards, automatic guards or photoelectric devices. An examination is also needed after installation or any exceptional event.
Who carries out the daily guard check?
A person appointed in writing by the employer, trained and competent for that press. They inspect and test the guards and protection devices within the first four hours of each working period and sign a record. It does not replace the thorough examination.
Is a press brake a power press?
Yes. Press brakes used for working cold metal count as power presses under PUWER Part IV, so they need the same thorough examinations and guard checks. A bearing or workshop press is different and is inspected under Regulation 6 instead.
Do I legally need a power press examination?
Yes. If you use a power press at work, PUWER Part IV says it must not be used unless it has been thoroughly examined within the required interval and its guards have been inspected and tested for that working period. The examination report is your evidence.
Do you carry out inspections on site?
Yes. Our Engineer Surveyors come to your premises across Berkshire and the surrounding counties, and we issue reports promptly.