Coffee Machine PSSR Inspection – Quickly Understand the Basics 

A PSSR inspection – or PSSR test (Pressure Systems Safety Regulation) is a regulation that was put in place in 2000 in the UK that requires pressurised steam systems (from steam generating coffee machines to large commercial boilers) to be inspected annually to achieve compliance and ensure equipment safety. In the case of a pressure system fail, there is a real risk of serious injury and serious damage to the property.  

In short, if you own or use a commercial coffee machine which has a pressurised boiler, then it’s required by law for you to have an annual PSSR inspection on the machine in compliance with the Pressure Systems Safety Regulation 2000.  

All traditional espresso machines have a pressurised boiler and will require an annual PSSR inspection. Some bean to cup coffee machines use a heating block and do not require the annual inspection. If you are unsure if your machines requires a PSSR inspection, get in touch. One of the servicing team will be able to tell you quickly if your machine requires one or not. 

According to HSE.GOV a competent person may carry out a PSSR inspection to produce a Written Scheme of Examination (WSE). A competent includes the following: 

• a company’s own in-house inspection department. 
• an individual person (eg a self-employed person); or 
• an organisation providing independent inspection services. 

Depending on the size of the pressure system a WSE can cost anything from a few hundred pounds all the way to several thousand pounds depending on the complexity of equipment. A commercial coffee machine is contained within the first bracket – a minor system and therefore will be at the lower end of this scale. Intermediate and major systems will cost significantly more for a PRRS inspection to be carried out.  

Along with “preventing serious injury from the hazard of stored energy as a result of the failure of a pressure systems,” not having a valid PSSR inspection will invalidate any insurance should the need to place a claim arises. It is a legal requirement and even a brand new machine requires a Written Scheme of Examination. It is the responsibility of Local Authorities and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) to enforce the PSSR regulations. Local Authority officers will, sooner or later, pay you a visit to check that you hold a current Inspection Certificate. Currently, they charge £154 per hour for any intervention and enforcement they need to make, including writing letters. 

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