Quick-note: Motor Trade Inspection Requirements.
If you use lifting equipment or pressure vessels in your business you must comply with the legal requirements for inspection.
Peter Sherwood, Insurance Director at Qualitas, is an expert in Motor Trade insurance:
“Most motor trade operations have lifting equipment and compressors but not all are aware of their responsibilities for ‘thorough examination and inspection’. Without a valid inspection certificate, where one is required, not only is the law being broken and employees potentially put at risk from unsafe equipment but personal assets and livelihoods are being jeopardised.”
The Regulations require that lifting equipment and accessories exposed to conditions which cause deterioration (such as wet or corrosive environments) undergo regular examination by a competent person. Equipment needs to be examined at regular intervals (6 months if lifting people or 12 months otherwise) or under an examination scheme agreed with the competent person.
With pressure vessels, the Regulations require that a competent person draws up a written scheme of examination, including the nature and frequency of examinations. Examinations should be carried out by the competent person on all non-exempt protective devices, pressure vessels and parts of the pipeline and pipework which could give rise to danger, prior to their operation or hiring-out.
“We are always happy to advise clients on inspection requirements. The Regulations can appear complex if you’re unfamiliar with them which is why we encourage clients to speak to us if they’re unsure.”
To speak to Peter or a member of the Qualitas team for an insurance quotation or risk advice, call today on 01684 217555.
Regulations and useful guides:
Lifting Equipment
Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER) and the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER)
‘Thorough examination of lifting equipment – A simple guide for employers’
www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg422.pdf
Pressure Vessels
Pressure Systems Safety Regulations 2000 (PSSR) http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/priced/l122.pdf
Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998 Approved Code of Practice
http://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/1998/2451/contents/made
“Pressure systems – A brief guide to safety”