Statutory Pressure Testing

PSSR testing from United Coffee Company

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Under the ‘Pressure Systems Safety Regulations 2000’, users of pressure systems, which include various types of whole bean coffee machines, are responsible for ensuring that boilers and other components of their pressure systems are tested and certified for safety. This certification process must be completed on a yearly basis, typically within 12 to 14 months, aligning with the conclusion of the first-year warranty.

Commercial coffee boilers incorporating a pressure vessel, such as cappuccino makers, generate steam and therefore fall under these regulatory requirements. They must have a written scheme of examination (WSE), and this examination must be carried out by a competent person.

Ultimately, the responsibility for compliance rests with the customer. Insurance companies will only pay a claim if the insured party was conducting their business activities within the law when an incident or accident occurred. Consequently, if a coffee machine explodes and causes injury or damage to persons or property at a site where the system had not been properly tested and certified, insurers are likely to refuse the claim on the grounds that the equipment was being operated illegally.

United Coffee can arrange an independent qualified inspector to attend the site. They will conduct a pressure test and draft a document called the ‘Written Scheme of Examination’.

The engineer will provide all necessary parts and replace the pressure valve should this be necessary. If the boiler is heavily scaled, we would give an advisory to have descaled before next PSSR inspection. Any leaks/drips or blockages we would normally deal with while on site.

There is an administration/service charge to arrange this inspection