What is a 'Written Scheme of Examination' (WSE)?

A Written Scheme of Examination (WSE) is a legal document required prior to use of Pressure Systems.

Under the Pressure Systems Safety Regulations 2000, you are required to demonstrate that you know the safe operating limits of your pressure systems, and that the systems are safe under those conditions.

Users/owners of a system that contains a relevant fluid and at least one pressure vessel exceeding 250 bar/litres must BY LAW have a suitable Written Scheme of Examination in place written by a 'competent person', before the system is operated.

Once the Written Scheme has been drawn up, you also need to ensure that the pressure system is actually examined. It will then be established how often these examinations are required.

The WSE must remain relevant to the pressure system it relates to and therefore, requires periodic reviews. Frequency of the reviews may vary depending on the competent person.

A WSE can cost anything from a few hundred pounds upwards, depending upon the type, number and complexity of equipment being examined and the schedule of parts included in the WSE.

While this may sound expensive, the costs of not having a WSE are far more severe.

A compliant WSE is not just a compliancy exercise, but a vital part in ensuring the safety of your plant and workers.

If a serious or fatal accident were to occur, which is possible due to the volatility of pressure equipment, you would be liable and could face prosecution and imprisonment under the Health and Safety Offences and Corporate Manslaughter Guidelines.

For more information, please see the Health and Safety Executive leaflet https://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg178.pdf which can be downloaded.

If you require further advice, please call 01903 257213 or please follow the link to send us an email at : sales@air4ultd.co.uk