Conformity marking and supplier documentation concern the product-supply route; PUWER concerns suitability and safe use in the actual workplace. Buyers must also manage installation, interfaces, training, maintenance, modifications and site risks.
Why this matters
In Great Britain, current government guidance gives businesses flexibility to use UKCA or recognised CE marking for machinery, subject to the applicable product regulations. The exact route depends on the market and product, so check current official guidance.
Decision table
| Question | Buyer action | Evidence |
|---|---|---|
| What is supplied? | Define complete machine, partly completed machinery, assembly, modification or used equipment | Scope statement |
| Which market? | Confirm Great Britain, Northern Ireland, EU or export destination | Regulatory route |
| What documents? | Request declarations and instructions matching the machine | Document register |
| How will it be used? | Complete workplace suitability and installation review | PUWER records |
| What changes later? | Control software, guarding and integration changes | Change assessment |
Information to collect first
- Define the machine boundary and interfaces.
- Check declarations and instructions match the supplied model.
- Assess access, guarding, emergency stops and isolation.
- Verify safety functions after installation.
- Review modifications before implementation.
- Retain training, inspection and maintenance records.
Recommended method
- 1
Identify supply duties and workplace duties separately.
- 2
Resolve missing documents before acceptance.
- 3
Complete installation and interface assessments.
- 4
Verify safety functions.
- 5
Record outstanding actions.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Assuming a CE or UKCA mark replaces PUWER.
- Treating connected machines as independent.
- Changing guards or software without assessment.
- Using an old summary instead of current guidance.
- Accepting a declaration that does not identify the machine.
Questions people also ask
Does marking replace PUWER?
No. Marking supports product-supply compliance; PUWER places duties on businesses using or controlling work equipment.
Can CE marking be used in Great Britain?
Current GOV.UK guidance gives businesses flexibility to use UKCA or CE marking for machinery in Great Britain; verify current sector guidance.
What about Northern Ireland or the EU?
Different routes apply; confirm the destination market before agreeing the declaration.
Can integration change responsibility?
Yes. The party creating an assembly may take responsibilities for the combined system.
Continue to the appropriate specialist route
Use the links below after defining the product, pack, output and acceptance criteria.