scope:

This Publication gives guidance on the interpretation of the PSSR relating to the periodic Examination of Pressure Systems and certain associated aspects, and considers in particular regulations 2, 7, 8, 9, 10 and 13, plus Schedule 2; it does not refer in detail to the other regulations already clearly expounded in the ACOP. This Guide, therefore, should not be read in isolation, but should be used to augment the existing ACOP.

Throughout this Guide, the terms contained within single quotation marks when first used are meant to be interpreted as defined in regulation 2 of the PSSR (thereafter in general shown with initial letters capitalized except where reproduced in paragraphs from the PSSR).

'Transportable Pressure Receptacles' (transportable gas containers) are not within the scope of this Publication.

Whilst this Publication refers throughout to UK regulations and practice, much of the general advice is relevant to practice outside the UK. However readers outside UK jurisdiction should abide by local regulations and codes of practice.

Purpose

This Publication is intended to give practical guidance on the use of the Regulations.

The Pressure Systems Safety Regulations 2000 (otherwise referred to in this guidance as the Regulations), together with the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) Approved Code of Practice, Safety of Pressure Systems, ACOP L122 (referred to as the ACOP in this guidance), comprise a package of documents, which in this publication are collectively referred to as the PSSR.

The PSSR contains a complex series of requirements, for which EEMUA considered that guidance would be of value to its members as a reference document, since the PSSR allows for a significant element of experienced, professional judgement by the 'User' and/or 'Competent Person', together with a demand for careful interpretation.

The first edition of this guide was published in 1993 as a Selective Guide to The Pressure Systems and Transportable Gas Containers Regulations (PSTGC). Edition 2 was issued in 2009 after the PSSR replaced the PSTGC Regulations and the ACOP was issued. Though the Regulations were not changed the ACOP was reissued in 2014. It contains some minor changes which are generally not relevant to industrial Users. This guide is now updated in the light of experience gained in its application since the issue of the second edition.

It is recommended to also refer to EEMUA 231 which exemplifies a large number of the elements of the PSSR.