New, second-hand, repaired or delivery-damaged?
An unopened new product is a different starting point from a second-hand item, something returned from repair or equipment with visible delivery damage. Describe its history accurately when asking what checks are appropriate.
Keep delivery-damaged or suspect equipment out of service and follow the supplier’s returns or repair process. Being newly purchased does not establish that an item damaged in transit is safe to use.
Add new equipment to your inventory
Add new equipment to your inventory
Record what has arrived, where it will be used and who is responsible for it. Retain the instructions and relevant product information. This helps distinguish new equipment from items that have been moved, modified or used elsewhere.
For a larger delivery, provide an approximate count and the equipment categories. The booking discussion can then distinguish receiving checks from the maintenance work already planned for appliances in use around the site.
Check your own contractual and sector requirements
Check your own contractual and sector requirements
Check whether your client, insurer or site procedure specifies acceptance checks for incoming equipment. Provide that requirement when arranging the work so the proposed checks address it.
Particular legal duties can also apply in specific settings, including equipment supplied by covered social landlords in England. Keep that context separate from HSE’s general answer about new workplace equipment.
Check the supply and plan ongoing maintenance
Check the supply and plan ongoing maintenance
A product being new does not establish that the building’s supply is suitable for it. New commercial equipment may need a dedicated connection or a review of existing circuits. Provide manufacturer requirements for that installation question.
Once the item enters use, include it in the appropriate maintenance arrangements for its type and environment. If you need help with both appliance checks and a new supply, mention both so the scopes and responsibilities are clear.
What to share with your enquiry
- Whether equipment is new, second-hand or repaired
- Item types and approximate numbers
- Any damage or delivery concern
- Site or contract acceptance requirements
- Supply and intended-use information
Questions answered
Does every new office appliance need a PAT sticker?
Not under a universal HSE rule. Identify and maintain equipment appropriately and check any specific requirements that apply.
Ask Max about thisDo second-hand appliances need the same approach as brand-new equipment?
Their history and condition may be different, so do not apply the general guidance for new equipment automatically. Explain previous use, repairs or damage when arranging checks. Keep suspect equipment out of service until its condition has been assessed appropriately.
Ask Max about thisIs the building supply covered by an appliance check?
No. Appliance maintenance and the suitability of the fixed electrical supply are different questions.
Ask Max about thisDoes a CE or UKCA mark replace workplace equipment checks?
A product marking does not remove the need to consider condition, intended use and a suitable electrical supply. New equipment should arrive safe, but delivery damage or an unsuitable application still needs attention. Include it in the organisation's appropriate maintenance arrangements once it enters use.
Ask Max about thisShould separate power supplies and detachable leads be included in the equipment list?
Identify them with the equipment they serve and tell the contractor how they are used or moved between items. This helps define what is included and how records will identify it. Avoid assuming a large delivery is one appliance simply because the items support the same workstation.
Ask Max about thisSources and further reading
Read the original guidance relevant to this question. Building Regulations and rental-law references here relate to England.