A Beginner’s Guide to the PUWER: 5 Things You Need to Know About Equipment Safety

The PUWER, short for the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations, is a key piece of UK health and safety legislation that applies to all industries, including the technical theatre industry. It is designed to ensure that work equipment is safe to use, maintained, and operated correctly to prevent harm to users and others. Whether you’re new to the world of workplace safety or just need a refresher, this guide will walk you through the basics of the provision and use of work equipment regulations and what you need to know to keep your operations running smoothly. 

These regulations apply to any business or organisation in any industry that uses equipment in the workplace, including theatre and live performance, where specialized equipment is often installed. The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations refer to ‘the Duty Holder’ which is responsible for the equipment, this could be the employer or self-employed person however it can also refer to the building owner, the person in charge of the equipment, or a hire company. In the context of technical theatre & venues, these regulations play a crucial role in ensuring safety and compliance when using equipment in a workplace.

The provision and use of work equipment regulations applies to all equipment used in technical theatre, including: 

• Rigging equipment such as trusses (lifting operations such as hoists & winches are covered by LOLER) Check out our LOLER blog here.
• Ladders and access equipment. 
• Fixed lighting bars and power points. 
• Stage machinery (e.g., revolves, lifts, and fly systems). 

The PUWER require that all this equipment is: 

• Suitable for its intended use 
• It’s kept in a safe condition 
• Only members of staff that have been trained should be using it 
• It should have the correct safety features 

Find out more about what West End Rigging offer regarding Inspections and Servicing here.

So, what exactly do you need to do to comply with the PUWER? Here are the key requirements: 

1. Risk Assessment

Before using any equipment, you must assess the risks associated with its use. This means spotting potential hazards and taking steps to reduce them. For example, if you’re using a machine that could cause injury, you might need to install safety guards or provide personal protective equipment (PPE).  

2. Training and Supervision

Anyone who uses work equipment must be trained. This includes understanding how to operate the equipment safely and being aware of any risks. Sometimes, especially with complex or risky equipment, you might also need to supervise their use. 

3. Regular Inspections and Maintenance

PUWER requires that work equipment is regularly inspected and maintained. This means carrying out regular checks internally and then arranging more detailed inspections by a qualified person as is necessary. Be sure to fix any issues before using the equipment again.  

4. Safety Measures

All equipment must have proper safety features. This could include physical guards to keep people away from dangerous parts, emergency stop buttons, and clear signage. The aim is to reduce the risk of accidents as much as possible. 

5. Record Keeping

Keep detailed records of everything, including risk assessments, training, maintenance, techincal files and installation documents from previous inspections. These records show that you’re following the PUWER and that the duty holder is taking safety seriously. 

• The technical theatre environment often involves working at height, the hanging & setting of dynamic loads, and fast-paced setups, all of which carry significant risks if equipment fails or is misused. 

• Complying with PUWER ensures not just the safety of the crew and performers but also the audience, reducing the likelihood of accidents, injuries, and legal consequences. 

For technical theatre companies, ensuring PUWER compliance is not just a legal obligation—it’s a commitment to safety and professionalism in every production.

1. List all of your equipment that falls under the PUWER.
2. Carry out risk assessments for each piece of equipment and look for potential risks.
3. Train your staff on how to safely use the equipment and why it's important to be safe.
4. Set up a maintenance schedule to ensure all equipment is regularly checked and kept in good condition.
5. Review and update your procedures regularly to stay compliant with the PUWER. 

PUWER are a critical part of workplace safety, and having a good understanding of its requirements is essential for anyone who uses or manages equipment at work. By following the guidelines laid out in this guide, you can help ensure that your workplace is safe, compliant, and ready to handle any challenges that come your way. Remember, safety is an ongoing process and staying informed and proactive is the key to success. 

At West End Rigging, we’re dedicated to helping our clients benefit from our extensive experience, expertise, and professionalism. Our expertise is built on years of hands-on experience, specialised knowledge from our installations and design work, and a strong commitment to continuous training and development through the industry’s leading training providers and governing bodies.

We offer comprehensive PUWER examinations of your equipment, machinery, and safety devices, along with detailed condition reports and actionable insights that give you a clear understanding of your equipment’s current status and help identify potential issues.

From community theaters and suppliers to high-end entertainment venues, West End Rigging is here to support you—wherever you are.