Work equipment and electrical safety

Any equipment that you use at work must be: 

• suitable for its intended use 
• safe to use 
• properly maintained 
• correctly installed 
• only used by people with the right information, instruction and training 

Provision and Use of Work Equipment (PUWER) policy

Our Policy on Provision and Use of Work Equipment (HSP 9.70) (DOCX, 432KB) and PUWER risk assessment form (HSF 027) (DOC, 1MB) will help you to meet the necessary requirements under the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER). 

Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment (LOLER) Policy

Where you undertake lifting operations involving lifting equipment you must:

• plan them properly
• using people who are sufficiently competent
• supervise them appropriately
• to ensure that they are carried out in a safe manner

There are also specific requirements for the purchase, installation, maintenance and marking of lifting equipment.  This new policy will help you to ensure you comply with the LOLER regulations.

Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment (LOLER) policy (HSP 9.75) (DOCX, 270KB)

Electricity and electrical equipment safety 

We must make sure that we comply with the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 and that all the electrical equipment we use at the council is designed, built, used and maintained so as to prevent danger.  

Electricity and Electrical Equipment Safety Policy (HSP 9.03) (DOCX, 394KB) 

Display Screen Equipment (DSE) and laptops 

We have a duty to protect our employees from the health risks of working with display screen equipment (DSE), such as PCs, laptops, tablets and smartphones. 

The laptop safety and DSE guidance gives information on how to use equipment safely and comply with regulations. 

Chainsaw and tree felling  

The Chainsaw and Tree Felling Operations policy explains the requirements for undertaking chainsaw operations on council property or felling trees that are the council’s responsibility. It makes sure that such operations are carried out safely by people who have been trained.  

Chainsaw and Tree Felling Operations Policy (HSP 9.27) (DOCX, 990KB) 

Hand arm vibration 

Hand arm vibration comes from using hand-held power tools. Equipment such as chainsaws, hammer drills and hedge trimmers can cause damage through vibration to your nervous system. 

The hand arm vibration policy and assessment information explains how to use equipment safely and comply with regulations. 

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) 

Our Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) policy sets out how appropriate equipment should be provided, used and maintained. PPE is vital in protecting employees from suffering harm or ill health while carrying out their duties.  

Personal Protective Equipment Policy (HSP 9.07) (DOCX, 138KB)

Use of microwave ovens 

Our guidance on the provision and use of microwaves explains the rules for the provision and use of microwaves within the council, non-school buildings, including offices. It covers health and safety requirements as well as general rules to ensure the wellbeing of all council staff. 

Provision and Use of Microwave Ovens Policy (HSP 9.55) (PDF, 200KB)