Hi All, Can anyone pin point where in legislation does it state a specific frequency for guard checks on machinery? I was on the understanding that it depended on the nature of the guard, the type of machine in question and so on and so forth. However, I have a gentleman at work that is adamant that he is legally required to check the guards on his machine every three months, and not more frequently. I really would appreciate any guidance from the more knowledgeable individuals within the group. Thanks and kind regards.

I have lost track of the number of things that people have assured me are legal requirements that I know aren't (because I have actually read the legislation). Most likely he has been told that checks are a legal requirement (from the PUWER requirement to maintain in safe condition) and has confused this with having been told the frequency of the checks (from company procedures) to end up with the idea that the frequency has a legal basis. The quarterly checks may well have been the way that someone originally decided to comply with PUWER but other ways may be available!

Nothing in direct PUWER legislation, however there is plenty of guidance on different types of machinery. For example plastic injection moulding machines have a HSE guidance note that does suggest frequencies for interlock checks. Check the HSE website for details of the equipment in question. I frequently use such guidance to bludgeon uncooperative shop floor types into submission. In the nicest possible way of course!