Is Your Business PSSR 2000 Compliant?
The Pressure Systems Safety Regulations 2000 (PSSR 2000) require all commercial premises operating a coffee machine with a steam boiler to hold a current boiler inspection certificate, issued in accordance with a written scheme of examination. This is a legal obligation under UK health and safety law — not optional.
Any machine that has been in service for more than 14 months from the date of new supply falls under this requirement. If you are unable to produce a valid certificate during an inspection by an environmental health officer or HSE representative, they can order the immediate shutdown of your coffee machine. Your insurance may also be invalidated in the event of a pressure-related incident if the machine is operating without a current certificate.
What Does the PSSR 2000 Test Cover?
A GMS PSSR 2000 boiler inspection is carried out by a certified engineer and follows a strict examination procedure designed to confirm the pressure system is safe to operate. The inspection includes:
- Full shutdown and strip-down of the coffee machine by a qualified espresso service engineer
- Boiler drained and heating element removed for inspection
- Pressure vessel examined for corrosion, cracking, scale build-up and wear
- Heating element gasket replaced as standard
- Machine reassembled and tested to full operating pressure (1.7–1.9 Bar)
- Safety valve function confirmed — opens at designated pressure (typically 1.8 Bar)
- Written scheme of examination updated and signed
- PSSR 2000 certificate issued on successful completion
What Happens if the Machine Fails?
If a fault is identified during the inspection that cannot be rectified within the same visit — for example, if a spare part is required — a second visit will need to be arranged. The machine cannot be used until it has passed its inspection and a valid certificate has been issued. GMS will advise on all required remedial work and prioritise return visits to minimise downtime.
