Pressure systems

The Pressure Systems Safety Regulations (PSSR) 2000 applies to most pressure systems used at work. Under PSSR duty holders, users and owners of pressure systems are required to:

• Establish the safe operating limits (pressure and temperature) of their systems


• Ensure that a suitable written scheme of examination is in place before the system is operated


• Ensure that the pressure system is actually examined in accordance with the written scheme


• Carry out proper maintenance and provide suitable operating instructions.

How can we help your business to comply with PSSR?

Zurich’s Engineer Surveyors are able to prepare written schemes of examination and carry out independent examinations of pressure systems in accordance with the scheme. We will also inform you immediately if your pressure system, or part of it, needs urgent attention. To ensure minimum disruption, where appropriate we are able to carry out examinations using the latest non-invasive inspection techniques, such as non-destructive testing or remote visual examination.

Real-life example:

The following incident is real and taken from the Health and Safety Executive.

• A case relating to the failure of a pressure vessel resulted in the company receiving a £100,000 fine. An employee was seriously injured when a lid flew off a pressure vessel due to failure of the clamping bolts.


• The incident could have been prevented by having adequate operating instructions and an appropriate scheme of examination. This incident resulted in fines being imposed but the true cost is significantly higher when other factors such as lost time, legal costs, management time, employee relationships and brand damage are taken into account. Additionally, such incidents can also have a negative impact on a business’s commercial insurance programme.