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ctd167  
#1 Posted : 15 June 2012 12:24:59(UTC)
Rank: Forum user
ctd167

We have a small power press/ punch (size of a washing machine) we use infrequently (maybe 4 hours in a 45 hour week) for punching small bolt holes in rubber sheets. The machine is fitted with guards and interlocks, maintained by ourselves, and tested and checked every time its used. We have a guy who we put on a Power Press Regulations Safety Course who undertakes the tasks of the 'Appointed Person', does the safety checks every time the machine is used, undertakes weekly/ monthly inspections etc. My question is, could this guy also act as the 'Competent Person' for the 6 monthly/ 12 monthly inspections?
HSSnail  
#2 Posted : 15 June 2012 12:54:52(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
HSSnail

ctd Have you seen these hse publication's? www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg375.pdf Page 5 gives advice on the "competent person" for the examination. While it dose not say that the person must be from a different company you should consider the "impartiality" of the person doing the inspection The Approved code of practice can be found at http://books.hse.gov.uk/...alogueCode=9780717616275 and page 23 give more guidance , particularly that it is not normal for one of your own employees to be the competent person it is not against the law. Hope this helps
Lawlee45239  
#3 Posted : 15 June 2012 13:54:38(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
Lawlee45239

ctd167 wrote:
We have a small power press/ punch (size of a washing machine) we use infrequently (maybe 4 hours in a 45 hour week) for punching small bolt holes in rubber sheets. The machine is fitted with guards and interlocks, maintained by ourselves, and tested and checked every time its used. We have a guy who we put on a Power Press Regulations Safety Course who undertakes the tasks of the 'Appointed Person', does the safety checks every time the machine is used, undertakes weekly/ monthly inspections etc. My question is, could this guy also act as the 'Competent Person' for the 6 monthly/ 12 monthly inspections?
I thought such certification had to be done by an external party??? All our plant/ equipment/ harnesses etc..is carried out by an external party.
Thomo  
#4 Posted : 15 June 2012 17:12:54(UTC)
Rank: Forum user
Thomo

Hi Letting the cat out the bag? Brian is correct. I work offshore and we have our own qualified PAT, LOLER, Plant and Harness inspectors. Correct training is given and agreed with our insurance company. Clear written direction is given on the competent persons’ to ensure their decision is final.
Clairel  
#5 Posted : 15 June 2012 17:17:59(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
Clairel

As previously said the peson needs to be impartial and I thing it would nbe difficult to prove an employee as impartial. Also read further and it says that the level of competency would be that of of UKAS accredited to the relevant standard. IMO you need to go external for the thorough examination..
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