Pressure Systems

The Pressure Systems and Transportable Gas Containers Regulations 1989, (PSR), lay down a series of detailed but general provisions aimed at preventing serious injury from the release of stored energy due to pressure system or component failure. The Regulations are applicable to the University and a full copy of the Regulations is available from the Health and Safety Unit.

 The aim of PSR is to prevent the risk of serious injury from the release of stored energy as a result of a pressure system or component failure. In particular the Regulations cover the design, construction, installation, repair, modification and use of pressure systems and transportable gas containers.

More specifically they cover information and marking, safe operating limits, written schemes of examination, examination in accordance with the written schemes, actions in cases of imminent danger, maintenance records and precautions against pressurisation in relation to pressure systems. In relation to transportable gas containers the Regulations cover container filling, examination, modification, repair, re-rating and record keeping.

The Regulations apply to pressure systems where the contents are 0.5 bar or more (7.5 psi) bar or more above atmospheric pressure, or where steam is present at any pressure.

Pressure systems must also be provided and maintained so that they are safe and without risks to health; and so constructed or adapted as to be suitable for the purpose for which it is used or provided.

Pressure systems and their safety devices must be used in accordance with training or instructions received. They must be used for their intended purpose and not be misused or abused. Any situation that may result in danger must be notified to the appropriate supervisor.

Further Information

Free and priced Health and Safety Commission/Executive publications are available for HSE Books. (Please contact the DOHS who may hold copies).

  • L1 A Guide to the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 ISBN 0 11 885555 7, Price: £4.00
  • L21 Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1992. Approved Code of Practice ISBN 0 7176 0412 8, Price: £5.00
  • COP 37 Safety of pressures systems: ACOP ISBN 0 11 885514 X, Price: £4.50
  • COP 38 Safety of transportable gas containers: ACOP ISBN 0 11 885515 8, Price: £4.00
  • HS(R)30 A Guide to the Pressure Systems and Transportable Gas Containers Regulations 1989 ISBN 0 11 885516 6, Price: £4.50