What is this document?
INDG178 explains the requirements for written schemes of examination under the Pressure Systems Safety Regulations 2000 (PSSR). These regulations apply to pressure systems including steam boilers, air compressors, pressure vessels, and associated pipework.
The leaflet helps owners and users understand their legal duties to ensure pressure systems are properly examined and maintained. Failure to comply can result in catastrophic equipment failures causing death and serious injury.
Who needs to read this?
- Owners of pressure systems including boilers, compressors, and pressure vessels
- Users of pressure equipment in industrial and commercial settings
- Facilities managers responsible for building services equipment
- Engineering managers overseeing pressurised processes
- Small business owners with air compressors, autoclaves, or steam equipment
- Landlords with communal heating systems
- Anyone responsible for maintenance of pressure-containing equipment
Key points covered
The guidance addresses core PSSR requirements:
Written scheme of examination
- A documented plan for examining pressure systems must be in place before operation
- The scheme must be drawn up or certified by a competent person
- It must cover all protective devices as well as the pressure system itself
Safe operating limits
- Owners and users must establish safe operating limits for each system
- These limits define the maximum pressure and temperature for safe operation
- Systems must not be operated beyond these limits
Examination requirements
- Pressure systems must be examined at intervals specified in the written scheme
- Examinations must be carried out by a competent person
- Records of examinations must be kept
Competent person
- A competent person must have sufficient expertise and independence
- They certify the written scheme and carry out examinations
- Insurance companies often provide competent person services
How this applies to you
Identify your pressure systems
Common workplace pressure systems include:
- Steam boilers and hot water boilers
- Air compressors and receivers
- Autoclaves and sterilisers
- Pressure cookers used commercially
- Gas storage vessels
- Process pressure vessels
- Associated pipework and safety valves
Establish a written scheme
Before operating any pressure system you must:
- Have a written scheme of examination prepared or certified by a competent person
- Ensure the scheme covers all relevant parts of the system
- Include all protective devices such as safety valves
Arrange examinations
- Schedule examinations according to the written scheme
- Use a competent person to carry out examinations
- Act on any defects or recommendations identified
- Keep records of all examinations for at least two years
Know your safe operating limits
- Document the maximum safe pressure and temperature for each system
- Ensure operators understand these limits
- Have procedures to prevent limits being exceeded
Get professional advice
Most pressure system owners use an inspection body or their insurance company to provide competent person services. This ensures examinations are carried out to the required standard.
Related Safety Clarity content
- Workplace Safety Requirements - General employer duties for health and safety
Source: This page summarises HSE guidance document INDG178. For the full official guidance, visit the HSE website.