Keep PUWER records that demonstrate control without generating empty paperwork.
Understand inspection records, maintenance logs, risk evidence, competence and corrective-action history for work equipment.
Where PUWER requires an inspection, the result must be recorded and kept at least until the next inspection. Maintenance logs, where provided, must be kept up to date; wider evidence should be proportionate to risk and organisational needs.
Understanding puwer record-keeping requirements
A useful record identifies the equipment, inspection type, date, competent person, defects, required action and any restriction on use.
Apply the requirements in proportion to the actual work equipment, use and risks, using current HSE guidance and competent advice.
A practical approach
Connect the inspection with corrective work and verification rather than storing an isolated certificate. Preserve the checklist version and supporting evidence.
Define responsibility, applicable criteria and escalation before collecting more data.
- Unique equipment identity
- Inspection result and date
- Defects and immediate controls
- Corrective action and verification
Evidence and continual control
Set retention, access and export controls. Records should allow a reviewer to reconstruct why equipment remained in or returned to service.
Review exceptions and outcomes regularly so the process improves rather than becoming static administration.
Authoritative guidance
Use these primary sources alongside your organisation's competent technical and legal advice.
PUWER record-keeping requirements FAQs
Why does puwer record-keeping requirements matter?
Where PUWER requires an inspection, the result must be recorded and kept at least until the next inspection. Maintenance logs, where provided, must be kept up to date; wider evidence should be proportionate to risk and organisational needs.
What should an organisation document?
Set retention, access and export controls. Records should allow a reviewer to reconstruct why equipment remained in or returned to service.
Can software replace competent judgement?
No. Software can organise workflow and evidence, but technical, legal and safety decisions remain with competent and authorised people.
Strengthen risk and inspection control
Connect inspections, risk and corrective work.
Maintarium Pro connects controlled inspections and risk records with equipment status and accountable action.
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