Safety technology: Regulations and standards
Mandatory CE-marking has been in effect since the start of 1995 in compliance with the Machinery Directive
89/392/EEC. It defines the fundamental demands regarding the safety of machinery and the health considerations for
the operator and user.
The consolidated standard is now available under the designation 98/37/EC.
What is a "machine"?
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"A machine for the purpose of this directive is an assembly
of linked parts or components, at least one of which moves". |
It also includes appropriate actuators, control and power circuits which are interconnected for a specific purpose. (For example, for processing, treatment, moving or packaging of a material).
The directive includes the following as "Machines" in its scope:
- Industrial machines
- Stacker cranes
- Fork lifts.
As the Machinery Directive only covers fundamental demands and there are many different types of machines in existence, the following must be asked: "How can I provide verification that my machine is safe?" In the European standards (EN standards) concrete demands can be tested and verification provided in this respect.