BS EN 60974-14 is the UK standard for calibrating and validating arc welding equipment, covering power sources, wire feeders, and measuring systems.

It specifies procedures for checking key parameters like voltage, current, and wire feed speed, ensuring they stay within defined tolerances. Calibration must be traceable to national or international standards, with documented accuracy.

Regular validation—typically annually—is required to ensure ongoing compliance, equipment reliability, and alignment with quality systems such as ISO 9001 and ISO 3834.

BS EN 60974-4 is the UK standard for periodic inspection and safety testing of arc welding equipment and is a recommendation within BS EN 60974-14. It outlines procedures to assess the electrical safety and overall condition of welding machines, including checks for insulation resistance, earth continuity, and functional safety features.

These inspections help identify wear, damage, or faults that could pose a risk to operators. Testing must be carried out by competent personnel using calibrated equipment, with results documented for traceability.

Regular inspections—typically annual—are essential to ensure continued safe operation and compliance with health and safety regulations.

COSHH Regulation 9 requires that Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV) systems used to control welding fume and other hazardous substances are thoroughly examined and tested at least every 14 months. This ensures the system continues to effectively capture and remove airborne contaminants, protecting workers' health.

Testing involves measuring airflow, capturing performance, and checking system integrity against the original design specifications. All tests must be carried out by competent personnel, with detailed reports provided for compliance and record-keeping.

Regular LEV testing is essential for maintaining a safe working environment and meeting legal obligations under the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) regulations.

Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) must be regularly examined and maintained to ensure it continues to provide effective protection against hazardous substances in the workplace.

In line with COSHH regulations, RPE should be inspected before each use and undergo thorough examinations at scheduled intervals by competent personnel. This includes checking the condition of facepieces, filters, valves, and straps, as well as ensuring a proper fit.

Records of all inspections and maintenance must be kept for compliance. Regular RPE examinations are vital to safeguard workers’ health and ensure ongoing compliance with health and safety legislation.

Professional Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) services are available to ensure electrical equipment remains safe and compliant with the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989.

PAT testing involves visual inspections and electrical tests to detect issues such as damaged plugs, faulty wiring, or insulation faults. Qualified technicians use calibrated equipment and provide detailed, traceable documentation for every item tested.

Regular PAT testing helps reduce the risk of electrical accidents, supports a safe working environment, and demonstrates compliance with health and safety responsibilities.

A free Site Compliance Audit is available to help identify whether your workplace meets essential health, safety, and regulatory requirements.

This audit reviews key areas including welding equipment calibration and validation to BS EN 60974-14, periodic inspection and safety testing to BS EN 60974-4, LEV fume extraction testing under COSHH Regulation 9, Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) examinations, face fit testing, and Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) in line with the Electricity at Work Regulations.

The audit provides a clear overview of current compliance levels, highlights any gaps, and offers expert guidance on how to meet legal obligations—helping to ensure a safer, more compliant work environment.