Workplace equipment
In all types of commercial premises there are a number of
different types of equipment which can all too easily be taken for
granted. Always follow the manufacturers' instructions, and train
your employees in the correct use.
Employers must ensure safe use of all equipment, including
starting, stopping, installing, dismantling, programming, setting,
transporting, maintaining, servicing and cleaning.
If you have not been trained to use a piece of equipment or not
trained to repair it do not use it. Report all faults to a
supervisor or manager. Inform your colleagues that the equipment is
out of action. If in doubt seek help … do not take short cuts.
Legislation
Examples of equipment used at work
- visual display units and display screens
- abrasive wheels
- forklift trucks
- lifts, hoists, escalators
- stapling machines
- hand tools
- feed slicers, mixers, dough brakes
- conveyor belts
- photocopiers
- paint sprayers
Equipment safety
All equipment must have:
- safety signs and warning hazards
- clearly marked isolator switches
- guards and fencing fitted if there are moving parts
- properly maintained service records
Employees
- all employees must receive training before using any item of
equipment and undergo programme refresher training on a regular
basis
- employees must wear personal protective equipment such as
goggles and gloves where identified in the risk assessments and
manufacturers' instructions
- guards and fencing must be used if provided by the
manufacturer
- under 18 year olds must not use any prescribed dangerous
machine