Mandatory Seatbelt Legislation. Effective 5th December 2002
PUWER 1998 (Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations)

This bulletin provides important information about the legal requirements of the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER).

What does PUWER do?
In general terms, PUWER requires that equipment, provided for use at work, is:
• Suitable for intended use
• Safe for use, maintained in a safe condition and inspected to ensure that the equipment remains safe
• Used only by people who have received adequate instruction and training
• Accompanied by suitable safety measures, eg. seat restraints (seatbelts)

Do the regulations apply to me?
If you are an employer or if you have control of the use of materials handling equipment (ie. forklift trucks), then the regulations will apply to you.

Regulation no. 27 advises that operator restraints (seatbelts) must be fitted to all trucks by 5th December 2002, regardless of their age.

The above information is a general indication of the key requirements of the regulations. However, it is important that you refer to the regulation to familiarise yourself fully with your obligations.

For further details, please contact the Health and Safety Executive by phone or visit their website by clicking here.