PSSR Inspections for Espresso Machines - What You Need to Know

If you’re running a commercial coffee setup, your espresso machine isn’t just another piece of equipment - it’s a pressure system. And that means it falls under the Pressure Systems Safety Regulations (PSSR 2000).

Put simply, if your machine has a boiler, it must be inspected, certified, and maintained to ensure it is safe and legally compliant.

Why PSSR Inspections Matter

PSSR inspections are not just a box-ticking exercise - they are essential for protecting your business, your team, and your customers.

A proper inspection helps to:

  • Prevent boiler ruptures and explosions
  • Reduce the risk of steam leaks and scald injuries
  • Identify electrical faults before they become dangerous
  • Avoid unexpected breakdowns and costly downtime
  • Ensure insurance remains valid in the event of a claim
  • Keep your business legally compliant

A valid PSSR certificate proves your machine is safe to operate - without it, you could be exposed to serious risk.

Who Is Responsible for PSSR?

This is where many businesses get it wrong.

It is often assumed that if a machine is leased, rented, or supplied free of charge, responsibility sits with the supplier.

This is incorrect.

Under UK law, responsibility sits with the operator - the person or business in control of the machine during use.

A simple way to think about it:

Control = Responsibility

So even if:

  • You lease the machine
  • You rent it
  • It was supplied as part of a package
  • Another company technically owns it

You are still responsible for ensuring it is compliant.

What Does a PSSR Inspection Include?

A professional PSSR inspection goes beyond a quick check. It is a full assessment of your machine’s safety and performance.

A typical inspection includes:

  • Boiler and pressure system inspection
  • Safety valve verification
  • Pump and solenoid testing
  • Leak detection
  • Electrical safety checks
  • Internal scale and condition assessment
  • Temperature and pressure checks
  • Certification issued on completion
  • Maintenance and water treatment advice

This ensures your machine is not only compliant but operating efficiently and safely.

How Often Do You Need a PSSR Inspection?

PSSR inspections must be carried out at least every 12 months.

In some cases, more frequent inspections may be required if:

  • A risk is identified
  • The machine is heavily used
  • There are changes in operating conditions

Regular inspections help catch issues early before they become serious problems.

What to Expect on the Day

A typical PSSR inspection takes around 2 hours.

Before your engineer arrives:

  • The machine must be switched off at least 1 hour prior to allow it to cool

During the visit:

  • Our engineers will carry out the full inspection
  • Keep you informed throughout
  • Provide certification once complete

Why Choose a Specialist?

Not all engineers understand coffee equipment.

Working with specialists means:

  • Faster, more accurate inspections
  • Knowledge of commercial espresso systems
  • Practical advice tailored to your setup

At Bond Espresso, our engineers work across Cornwall and the South West, supporting businesses in the foodservice sector with reliable, compliant inspections.

Stay Compliant. Stay Protected.

Your espresso machine works under pressure - and so do the regulations around it.

A PSSR inspection is not just about compliance. It is about protecting your business, your team, and your customers from avoidable risk.

Need a PSSR Inspection?

If you want to learn more about PSSR requirements, understand your responsibilities, or request a custom quote, get in touch.

 

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