PSSR Inspections
Pressure Systems Safety Regulations (PSSR) Inspections
Safe Lee Inspection & Consultancy provides statutory and non statutory inspections of pressure systems in accordance with the Pressure Systems Safety Regulations 2000.
Based in Manchester, we carry out PSSR inspections for businesses across the North West and support multi site clients throughout the UK. Inspections are carried out by a competent person, with clear reports issued following examination.
What Is PSSR?
PSSR refers to the Pressure Systems Safety Regulations 2000. These regulations are designed to protect workers and the public from the dangers associated with pressurised systems, where a sudden release of stored energy could cause serious injury.
PSSR applies to most workplace pressure systems containing a relevant fluid and places legal duties on employers and duty holders to ensure systems are examined and maintained safely.
Who Needs PSSR Inspections?
PSSR applies to anyone who owns or controls pressure systems used at work, including:
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Employers and duty holders
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Self employed individuals
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Businesses operating pressure equipment in garages, hire, construction, and manufacturing environments
If a pressure system contains a relevant fluid and meets the regulatory thresholds, it must comply with PSSR.
What Is a Relevant Fluid Under PSSR?
Whether a system falls under PSSR depends on whether it contains a relevant fluid.
A relevant fluid includes:
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Steam at any pressure
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Any gas that is compressed, liquefied, or dissolved under pressure
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Liquids that exert a vapour pressure greater than 0.5 bar above atmospheric pressure at 17.5°C, such as LPG, ammonia, and certain refrigerants
Systems containing non relevant fluids, such as low pressure water systems, may fall outside the scope of PSSR.
What Equipment Is Covered Under PSSR?
PSSR covers a wide range of pressure systems and components, including:
Air Receivers
Welded air receivers and air oil receivers, both vertical and horizontal, whether standalone or installed in line with other receivers.
Where a receiver has a pressure and volume greater than 250 bar litres, a Written Scheme of Examination is required.
Boilers and Hot Water Systems
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Steam boilers
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Hot water boilers
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Expansion vessels
Both statutory and non statutory systems may fall under PSSR depending on design and operating conditions.
Pressure System Components
Pressure systems also include associated components examined under a Written Scheme of Examination, such as:
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Pipework
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Regulators
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Water traps
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Air dryers
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Pressure gauges
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Safety valves
These components are examined as part of the overall system, not in isolation.
Written Schemes of Examination (WSE)
A Written Scheme of Examination is a legally required document under PSSR for qualifying pressure systems. It must be prepared by a competent person and be in place before the system is operated.
A WSE sets out:
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Which parts of the system must be examined
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The nature of the examination
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The examination intervals
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Safe operating limits such as pressure and temperature
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Preparation requirements before examination
The WSE forms the basis for all future PSSR inspections.
PSSR Examination Intervals
Examination intervals under PSSR are determined by a competent person and documented within the Written Scheme of Examination.
Typical intervals in practice may include:
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12 months for many steam boilers and compressed air receivers
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24 to 36 months for lower risk systems where justified by design and operating conditions
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Shorter intervals for systems operating under severe or corrosive conditions
Re examination is also required following damage, modification, or exceptional events.
Competent Person
Inspections & Reporting
All PSSR inspections are carried out by a competent person with the knowledge and experience required under UK health and safety legislation.
Following inspection, a clear report of examination is issued, documenting the condition of the system and identifying any defects or actions required to maintain compliance.
PSSR Inspection FAQs
How do I know if my equipment falls under PSSR?
If your pressure system contains a relevant fluid and exceeds regulatory thresholds, it is likely covered by PSSR. A competent person can confirm applicability.
What is a Written Scheme of Examination?
A Written Scheme of Examination is a legal document that sets out how and when a pressure system must be examined to ensure it remains safe.
Do all air receivers require a Written Scheme of Examination?
Air receivers with a pressure and volume greater than 250 bar litres require a Written Scheme of Examination.
How often does PSSR inspection need to be carried out?
Inspection intervals are set by a competent person within the Written Scheme of Examination and typically range from 12 to 36 months depending on risk.
Do safety valves and pressure gauges fall under PSSR?
Yes. Safety valves, pressure gauges, and associated pipework are examined as part of the pressure system under the Written Scheme of Examination.