PUWER stands for the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998.

While LOLER focuses specifically on lifting, PUWER is much broader. It applies to practically any equipment used by an employee at work—from a simple hammer or a laptop to a complex circular saw or an electric forklift truck.

If you own or operate a business, PUWER requires you to ensure that any equipment provided is suitable for its intended use and maintained in a safe condition.

To be compliant, equipment must meet four primary criteria:

• Suitability: The equipment must be right for the specific job and the environment it’s being used in (e.g., using flame-proof tools in a refinery).
• Safety: It must be safe for use, maintained in a safe condition, and inspected by a competent person to ensure it remains so.
• Information & Training: Anyone using the equipment must have access to clear instructions, health and safety information, and adequate training.
• Protection: Equipment must be fitted with necessary safeguards, such as emergency stop buttons, warning lights, and protective guarding.

Think of PUWER as the "foundation" and LOLER as the "specialist."

PUWER.

Scope  - All work equipment (tools, drills, cars, photocopiers).

Maintenance Requires regular maintenance logs.

LOLER.

Scope - Only lifting equipment (cranes, lifts, slings).

Requires a strict "Thorough Examination" schedule.

Relationship If it's a machine, PUWER applies. If that machine lifts, both PUWER and LOLER apply.

Pro Tip: Under PUWER, "Work Equipment" also includes equipment that employees provide for themselves. If a technician brings their own personal toolkit to the site, the employer is still responsible for ensuring those tools meet PUWER standards.