PSSR INSPECTION & REGULATION
Pressure systems are a critical part of many industrial processes, but it is essential to ensure they are safe and compliant with the Pressure Systems Safety Regulations (PSSR) 2000 (2004 in Northern Ireland).
If you own or operate a pressure system, from simple air compressors/receivers to steam boilers, you have a duty to undertake inspections and ensure safety.
Bureau Veritas has an experienced team of inspection engineers, working with clients to provide inspection services that meet PSSR requirements.
MEETING YOUR PSSR OBLIGATIONS
The PSSR regulations place obligations on companies to ensure the safe operation of pressure systems in the United Kingdom, to prevent serious injury from the hazard of stored energy (pressure) as a result of the failure of a pressure system or one of its component parts.
If you own or operate pressure systems, you must ensure that they are inspected in accordance with a Written Scheme of Examination by a competent person. This includes a thorough examination to identify any potential hazards.
PSSR states that all pressure systems should be inspected regularly by a ‘competent person’. The easiest way to do this is to use a third party, independent inspection partner like Bureau Veritas.
The frequency for these inspections depends on a number of factors, such as the type of system, intended use, the level of risk involved with its use and location(s).
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Pressure systems are defined as:
- A system comprising one or more pressure vessels of rigid construction, any associated pipework and protective devices
- The pipework with its protective devices to which a transportable pressure receptacle is, or is intended to be, connected
- A pipeline and its protective devices
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A relevant fluid is:
- Steam at any pressure
- A gas above 0.5 bar above atmospheric pressure or a liquid which would have a vapour pressure above 0.5 bar above atmospheric pressure; pressurised hot water above 110 °C
- A gas dissolved under pressure in a solvent (acetylene)
The range of equipment covered by PSSR is extensive and includes conventional and nuclear power station systems, process vessels, compressed air systems, boilers, refrigeration plants, heating systems and many others.
Plants not containing a ‘relevant fluid’ are still subject to certain regulations, for example, The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER). Our team can advise on the best approach to maximise your inspections.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF PSSR INSPECTIONS?
- Achieve and maintain compliance with relevant regulations
- Ensure safety across your business
- Identify defects that may have been missed during the routine maintenance regime
WHY CHOOSE BUREAU VERITAS FOR PSSR INSPECTIONS?
Our comprehensive range of inspections are designed to meet all regulatory requirements and guarantee you maximum safety for your pressure systems.
We have an experienced and qualified team of inspection engineers, working nationwide, to deliver combined inspection services including PSSR inspections.
MAIA & SWIFT – ENHANCED REPORTING AND 24/7 ACCESS
Our Swift platform is free for mechanical inspection clients, giving access to live, accurate and reliable data for all inspection reports.
Developed in-house by our own team of experts, SWIFT is a web-based portal which gives safe, secure, 24/7 access to your inspection records, visit reports and equipment lists.
FAQS
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HOW OFTEN SHOULD PSSR INSPECTIONS BE CONDUCTED?
The frequency will depend on the type, size, location and use of the pressure system but most systems would normally be inspected by a competent person at least every 12 months.
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WHAT IS A COMPETENT PERSON?
A competent person is someone who has the knowledge, skills and experience to undertake PSSR inspections safely and effectively.
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WHAT IS A WRITTEN SCHEME OF EXAMINATION?
A written scheme of examination (WSE) is a legal document required by PSSR that details which parts of the pressure system need to be subject to examination, what types of examination are necessary and the frequency of examination for those parts.