Machinery Directive 2006/42

Handling pic To support the new directive 2006/42, many existing standards are being superseded. One of the most important is BS EN 954-1 on the safety related parts of control systems, which is replaced by BS EN 13849-1 from the end of 2009. This introduces a simplified probabilistic approach to the design of safety-related parts of control systems and is aimed at the majority of engineering and control system companies who might consider the alternatives BS EN 61508 and BS EN 62061 too complex.

Will it affect me?

Emcpilk Extract Yes, to some extent, and it could be significant if you supply partly built machinery. Every supplier is affected by the new requirements for declarations, requiring the name of the person responsible for the technical file to be stated, and there are numerous other clarifications affecting most suppliers.
The main changes are:

  • modified essential health and safety requirements
  • clearer distinction between Machinery Directive and Low Voltage Directive
  • clearer definition of safety components, and exemptions for spares
  • inclusion of lifts not covered by the Lifts Directive (e.g. construction site hoists)
  • comprehensive new duties on suppliers of partly built machinery, who must now compile technical files and assembly instructions, and issue a much more detailed Declaration of Incorporation
  • new requirements for the technical file
  • new wording in the Declaration of Conformity

Headlands Consulting has compiled a comprehensive guide to the new directive with details of all changes described and commented on. Guidance on the new standards supporting the new directive is also provided. To obtain a copy, please contact us.

For further information, contact Headlands Consulting.

Standards guidance

We can advise you on the standards you need to adopt for CE marking and PUWER, and help you interpret them in your situation.
Electrical safety of machinery is covered by BS EN 60204-1 and is a key standard for CE marking. We can provide inspection and testing to this standard as part of your CE conformity.
EMC Guidance & Testing For CE marking, you will also need to consider the Electromagnetic Compatibility Regulations. We can advise on your obligations and economic methods of conformity.
Other Directives Some machinery must meet additional directives before CE marking, e.g. Outdoor Noise Directive, Simple Pressure Vessels.