Directive 2006/42/EC of the European Parliament and of the CouncilShow full title

GENERAL PRINCIPLES

1. The manufacturer of machinery or his authorised representative must ensure that a risk assessment is carried out in order to determine the health and safety requirements which apply to the machinery. The machinery must then be designed and constructed taking into account the results of the risk assessment.

By the iterative process of risk assessment and risk reduction referred to above, the manufacturer or his authorised representative shall:

• determine the limits of the machinery, which include the intended use and any reasonably foreseeable misuse thereof,

• identify the hazards that can be generated by the machinery and the associated hazardous situations,

• estimate the risks, taking into account the severity of the possible injury or damage to health and the probability of its occurrence,

• evaluate the risks, with a view to determining whether risk reduction is required, in accordance with the objective of this Directive,

• eliminate the hazards or reduce the risks associated with these hazards by application of protective measures, in the order of priority established in section 1.1.2(b).

2. The obligations laid down by the essential health and safety requirements only apply when the corresponding hazard exists for the machinery in question when it is used under the conditions foreseen by the manufacturer or his authorised representative or in foreseeable abnormal situations. In any event, the principles of safety integration referred to in section 1.1.2 and the obligations concerning marking of machinery and instructions referred to in sections 1.7.3 and 1.7.4 apply.

3. The essential health and safety requirements laid down in this Annex are mandatory; However, taking into account the state of the art, it may not be possible to meet the objectives set by them. In that event, the machinery must, as far as possible, be designed and constructed with the purpose of approaching these objectives.

4. This Annex is organised in several parts. The first one has a general scope and is applicable to all kinds of machinery. The other parts refer to certain kinds of more specific hazards. Nevertheless, it is essential to examine the whole of this Annex in order to be sure of meeting all the relevant essential requirements. When machinery is being designed, the requirements of the general part and the requirements of one or more of the other parts shall be taken into account, depending on the results of the risk assessment carried out in accordance with point 1 of these General Principles.

1. ESSENTIAL HEALTH AND SAFETY REQUIREMENTS

1.1. GENERAL REMARKS

1.1.1. Definitions

For the purpose of this Annex:

(a)

‘hazard’ means a potential source of injury or damage to health;

(b)

‘danger zone’ means any zone within and/or around machinery in which a person is subject to a risk to his health or safety;

(c)

‘exposed person’ means any person wholly or partially in a danger zone;

(d)

‘operator’ means the person or persons installing, operating, adjusting, maintaining, cleaning, repairing or moving machinery;

(e)

‘risk’ means a combination of the probability and the degree of an injury or damage to health that can arise in a hazardous situation;

(f)

‘guard’ means a part of the machinery used specifically to provide protection by means of a physical barrier;

(g)

‘protective device’ means a device (other than a guard) which reduces the risk, either alone or in conjunction with a guard;

(h)

‘intended use’ means the use of machinery in accordance with the information provided in the instructions for use;

(i)

‘reasonably foreseeable misuse’ means the use of machinery in a way not intended in the instructions for use, but which may result from readily predictable human behaviour.

1.1.2. Principles of safety integration

(a)

Machinery must be designed and constructed so that it is fitted for its function, and can be operated, adjusted and maintained without putting persons at risk when these operations are carried out under the conditions foreseen but also taking into account any reasonably foreseeable misuse thereof.

The aim of measures taken must be to eliminate any risk throughout the foreseeable lifetime of the machinery including the phases of transport, assembly, dismantling, disabling and scrapping.

(b)

In selecting the most appropriate methods, the manufacturer or his authorised representative must apply the following principles, in the order given:

• eliminate or reduce risks as far as possible (inherently safe machinery design and construction),

• take the necessary protective measures in relation to risks that cannot be eliminated,

• inform users of the residual risks due to any shortcomings of the protective measures adopted, indicate whether any particular training is required and specify any need to provide personal protective equipment.

(c)

When designing and constructing machinery and when drafting the instructions, the manufacturer or his authorised representative must envisage not only the intended use of the machinery but also any reasonably foreseeable misuse thereof.

The machinery must be designed and constructed in such a way as to prevent abnormal use if such use would engender a risk. Where appropriate, the instructions must draw the user's attention to ways — which experience has shown might occur — in which the machinery should not be used.

(d)

Machinery must be designed and constructed to take account of the constraints to which the operator is subject as a result of the necessary or foreseeable use of personal protective equipment.

(e)

Machinery must be supplied with all the special equipment and accessories essential to enable it to be adjusted, maintained and used safely.

1.1.3. Materials and products

The materials used to construct machinery or products used or created during its use must not endanger persons' safety or health. In particular, where fluids are used, machinery must be designed and constructed to prevent risks due to filling, use, recovery or draining.

1.1.4. Lighting

Machinery must be supplied with integral lighting suitable for the operations concerned where the absence thereof is likely to cause a risk despite ambient lighting of normal intensity.

Machinery must be designed and constructed so that there is no area of shadow likely to cause nuisance, that there is no irritating dazzle and that there are no dangerous stroboscopic effects on moving parts due to the lighting.

Internal parts requiring frequent inspection and adjustment, and maintenance areas must be provided with appropriate lighting.

1.1.5. Design of machinery to facilitate its handling

Machinery, or each component part thereof, must:

• be capable of being handled and transported safely,

• be packaged or designed so that it can be stored safely and without damage.

During the transportation of the machinery and/or its component parts, there must be no possibility of sudden movements or of hazards due to instability as long as the machinery and/or its component parts are handled in accordance with the instructions.

Where the weight, size or shape of machinery or its various component parts prevents them from being moved by hand, the machinery or each component part must:

• either be fitted with attachments for lifting gear, or

• be designed so that it can be fitted with such attachments, or

• be shaped in such a way that standard lifting gear can easily be attached.

Where machinery or one of its component parts is to be moved by hand, it must:

• either be easily moveable, or

• be equipped for picking up and moving safely.

Special arrangements must be made for the handling of tools and/or machinery parts which, even if lightweight, could be hazardous.

1.1.6. Ergonomics

Under the intended conditions of use, the discomfort, fatigue and physical and psychological stress faced by the operator must be reduced to the minimum possible, taking into account ergonomic principles such as:

• allowing for the variability of the operator's physical dimensions, strength and stamina,

• providing enough space for movements of the parts of the operator's body,

• avoiding a machine-determined work rate,

• avoiding monitoring that requires lengthy concentration,

• adapting the man/machinery interface to the foreseeable characteristics of the operators.

1.1.7. Operating positions

The operating position must be designed and constructed in such a way as to avoid any risk due to exhaust gases and/or lack of oxygen.

If the machinery is intended to be used in a hazardous environment presenting risks to the health and safety of the operator or if the machinery itself gives rise to a hazardous environment, adequate means must be provided to ensure that the operator has good working conditions and is protected against any foreseeable hazards.

Where appropriate, the operating position must be fitted with an adequate cabin designed, constructed and/or equipped to fulfil the above requirements. The exit must allow rapid evacuation. Moreover, when applicable, an emergency exit must be provided in a direction which is different from the usual exit.

1.1.8. Seating

Where appropriate and where the working conditions so permit, work stations constituting an integral part of the machinery must be designed for the installation of seats.

If the operator is intended to sit during operation and the operating position is an integral part of the machinery, the seat must be provided with the machinery.

The operator's seat must enable him to maintain a stable position. Furthermore, the seat and its distance from the control devices must be capable of being adapted to the operator.

If the machinery is subject to vibrations, the seat must be designed and constructed in such a way as to reduce the vibrations transmitted to the operator to the lowest level that is reasonably possible. The seat mountings must withstand all stresses to which they can be subjected. Where there is no floor beneath the feet of the operator, footrests covered with a slip-resistant material must be provided.

1.2. CONTROL SYSTEMS

1.2.1. Safety and reliability of control systems

Control systems must be designed and constructed in such a way as to prevent hazardous situations from arising. Above all, they must be designed and constructed in such a way that:

• they can withstand the intended operating stresses and external influences,

• a fault in the hardware or the software of the control system does not lead to hazardous situations,

• errors in the control system logic do not lead to hazardous situations,

• reasonably foreseeable human error during operation does not lead to hazardous situations.

Particular attention must be given to the following points:

• the machinery must not start unexpectedly,

• the parameters of the machinery must not change in an uncontrolled way, where such change may lead to hazardous situations,

• the machinery must not be prevented from stopping if the stop command has already been given,

• no moving part of the machinery or piece held by the machinery must fall or be ejected,

• automatic or manual stopping of the moving parts, whatever they may be, must be unimpeded,

• the protective devices must remain fully effective or give a stop command,

• the safety-related parts of the control system must apply in a coherent way to the whole of an assembly of machinery and/or partly completed machinery.

For cable-less control, an automatic stop must be activated when correct control signals are not received, including loss of communication.

1.2.2. Control devices

Control devices must be:

• clearly visible and identifiable, using pictograms where appropriate,

• positioned in such a way as to be safely operated without hesitation or loss of time and without ambiguity,

• designed in such a way that the movement of the control device is consistent with its effect,

• located outside the danger zones, except where necessary for certain control devices such as an emergency stop or a teach pendant,

• positioned in such a way that their operation cannot cause additional risk,

• designed or protected in such a way that the desired effect, where a hazard is involved, can only be achieved by a deliberate action,

• made in such a way as to withstand foreseeable forces; particular attention must be paid to emergency stop devices liable to be subjected to considerable forces.

Where a control device is designed and constructed to perform several different actions, namely where there is no one-to-one correspondence, the action to be performed must be clearly displayed and subject to confirmation, where necessary.

Control devices must be so arranged that their layout, travel and resistance to operation are compatible with the action to be performed, taking account of ergonomic principles.

Machinery must be fitted with indicators as required for safe operation. The operator must be able to read them from the control position.

From each control position, the operator must be able to ensure that no-one is in the danger zones, or the control system must be designed and constructed in such a way that starting is prevented while someone is in the danger zone.

If neither of these possibilities is applicable, before the machinery starts, an acoustic and/or visual warning signal must be given. The exposed persons must have time to leave the danger zone or prevent the machinery starting up.

If necessary, means must be provided to ensure that the machinery can be controlled only from control positions located in one or more predetermined zones or locations.

Where there is more than one control position, the control system must be designed in such a way that the use of one of them precludes the use of the others, except for stop controls and emergency stops.

When machinery has two or more operating positions, each position must be provided with all the required control devices without the operators hindering or putting each other into a hazardous situation.

1.2.3. Starting

It must be possible to start machinery only by voluntary actuation of a control device provided for the purpose.

The same requirement applies:

• when restarting the machinery after a stoppage, whatever the cause,

• when effecting a significant change in the operating conditions.

However, the restarting of the machinery or a change in operating conditions may be effected by voluntary actuation of a device other than the control device provided for the purpose, on condition that this does not lead to a hazardous situation.

For machinery functioning in automatic mode, the starting of the machinery, restarting after a stoppage, or a change in operating conditions may be possible without intervention, provided this does not lead to a hazardous situation.

Where machinery has several starting control devices and the operators can therefore put each other in danger, additional devices must be fitted to rule out such risks. If safety requires that starting and/or stopping must be performed in a specific sequence, there must be devices which ensure that these operations are performed in the correct order.

1.2.4. Stopping

1.2.4.1. Normal stop

Machinery must be fitted with a control device whereby the machinery can be brought safely to a complete stop.

Each workstation must be fitted with a control device to stop some or all of the functions of the machinery, depending on the existing hazards, so that the machinery is rendered safe.

The machinery's stop control must have priority over the start controls.

Once the machinery or its hazardous functions have stopped, the energy supply to the actuators concerned must be cut off.

1.2.4.2. Operational stop

Where, for operational reasons, a stop control that does not cut off the energy supply to the actuators is required, the stop condition must be monitored and maintained.

1.2.4.3. Emergency stop

Machinery must be fitted with one or more emergency stop devices to enable actual or impending danger to be averted.

The following exceptions apply:

• machinery in which an emergency stop device would not lessen the risk, either because it would not reduce the stopping time or because it would not enable the special measures required to deal with the risk to be taken,

• portable hand-held and/or hand-guided machinery.

The device must:

• have clearly identifiable, clearly visible and quickly accessible control devices,

• stop the hazardous process as quickly as possible, without creating additional risks,

• where necessary, trigger or permit the triggering of certain safeguard movements.

Once active operation of the emergency stop device has ceased following a stop command, that command must be sustained by engagement of the emergency stop device until that engagement is specifically overridden; it must not be possible to engage the device without triggering a stop command; it must be possible to disengage the device only by an appropriate operation, and disengaging the device must not restart the machinery but only permit restarting.

The emergency stop function must be available and operational at all times, regardless of the operating mode.

Emergency stop devices must be a back-up to other safeguarding measures and not a substitute for them.

1.2.4.4. Assembly of machinery

In the case of machinery or parts of machinery designed to work together, the machinery must be designed and constructed in such a way that the stop controls, including the emergency stop devices, can stop not only the machinery itself but also all related equipment, if its continued operation may be dangerous.

1.2.5. Selection of control or operating modes

The control or operating mode selected must override all other control or operating modes, with the exception of the emergency stop.

If machinery has been designed and constructed to allow its use in several control or operating modes requiring different protective measures and/or work procedures, it must be fitted with a mode selector which can be locked in each position. Each position of the selector must be clearly identifiable and must correspond to a single operating or control mode.

The selector may be replaced by another selection method which restricts the use of certain functions of the machinery to certain categories of operator.

If, for certain operations, the machinery must be able to operate with a guard displaced or removed and/or a protective device disabled, the control or operating mode selector must simultaneously:

• disable all other control or operating modes,

• permit operation of hazardous functions only by control devices requiring sustained action,

• permit the operation of hazardous functions only in reduced risk conditions while preventing hazards from linked sequences,

• prevent any operation of hazardous functions by voluntary or involuntary action on the machine's sensors.

If these four conditions cannot be fulfilled simultaneously, the control or operating mode selector must activate other protective measures designed and constructed to ensure a safe intervention zone.

In addition, the operator must be able to control operation of the parts he is working on from the adjustment point.

1.2.6. Failure of the power supply

The interruption, the re-establishment after an interruption or the fluctuation in whatever manner of the power supply to the machinery must not lead to dangerous situations.

Particular attention must be given to the following points:

• the machinery must not start unexpectedly,

• the parameters of the machinery must not change in an uncontrolled way when such change can lead to hazardous situations,

• the machinery must not be prevented from stopping if the command has already been given,

• no moving part of the machinery or piece held by the machinery must fall or be ejected,

• automatic or manual stopping of the moving parts, whatever they may be, must be unimpeded,

• the protective devices must remain fully effective or give a stop command.

1.3. PROTECTION AGAINST MECHANICAL HAZARDS

1.3.1. Risk of loss of stability

Machinery and its components and fittings must be stable enough to avoid overturning, falling or uncontrolled movements during transportation, assembly, dismantling and any other action involving the machinery.

If the shape of the machinery itself or its intended installation does not offer sufficient stability, appropriate means of anchorage must be incorporated and indicated in the instructions.

1.3.2. Risk of break-up during operation

The various parts of machinery and their linkages must be able to withstand the stresses to which they are subject when used.

The durability of the materials used must be adequate for the nature of the working environment foreseen by the manufacturer or his authorised representative, in particular as regards the phenomena of fatigue, ageing, corrosion and abrasion.

The instructions must indicate the type and frequency of inspections and maintenance required for safety reasons. They must, where appropriate, indicate the parts subject to wear and the criteria for replacement.

Where a risk of rupture or disintegration remains despite the measures taken, the parts concerned must be mounted, positioned and/or guarded in such a way that any fragments will be contained, preventing hazardous situations.

Both rigid and flexible pipes carrying fluids, particularly those under high pressure, must be able to withstand the foreseen internal and external stresses and must be firmly attached and/or protected to ensure that no risk is posed by a rupture.

Where the material to be processed is fed to the tool automatically, the following conditions must be fulfilled to avoid risks to persons:

• when the workpiece comes into contact with the tool, the latter must have attained its normal working condition,

• when the tool starts and/or stops (intentionally or accidentally), the feed movement and the tool movement must be coordinated.

1.3.3. Risks due to falling or ejected objects

Precautions must be taken to prevent risks from falling or ejected objects.

1.3.4. Risks due to surfaces, edges or angles

Insofar as their purpose allows, accessible parts of the machinery must have no sharp edges, no sharp angles and no rough surfaces likely to cause injury.

1.3.5. Risks related to combined machinery

Where the machinery is intended to carry out several different operations with manual removal of the piece between each operation (combined machinery), it must be designed and constructed in such a way as to enable each element to be used separately without the other elements constituting a risk for exposed persons.

For this purpose, it must be possible to start and stop separately any elements that are not protected.

1.3.6. Risks related to variations in operating conditions

Where the machinery performs operations under different conditions of use, it must be designed and constructed in such a way that selection and adjustment of these conditions can be carried out safely and reliably.

1.3.7. Risks related to moving parts

The moving parts of machinery must be designed and constructed in such a way as to prevent risks of contact which could lead to accidents or must, where risks persist, be fitted with guards or protective devices.

All necessary steps must be taken to prevent accidental blockage of moving parts involved in the work. In cases where, despite the precautions taken, a blockage is likely to occur, the necessary specific protective devices and tools must, when appropriate, be provided to enable the equipment to be safely unblocked.

The instructions and, where possible, a sign on the machinery shall identify these specific protective devices and how they are to be used.

1.3.8. Choice of protection against risks arising from moving parts

Guards or protective devices designed to protect against risks arising from moving parts must be selected on the basis of the type of risk. The following guidelines must be used to help to make the choice.

1.3.8.1. Moving transmission parts

Guards designed to protect persons against the hazards generated by moving transmission parts must be:

• either fixed guards as referred to in section 1.4.2.1, or

• interlocking movable guards as referred to in section 1.4.2.2.

Interlocking movable guards should be used where frequent access is envisaged.

1.3.8.2. Moving parts involved in the process

Guards or protective devices designed to protect persons against the hazards generated by moving parts involved in the process must be:

• either fixed guards as referred to in section 1.4.2.1, or

• interlocking movable guards as referred to in section 1.4.2.2, or

• protective devices as referred to in section 1.4.3, or

• a combination of the above.

However, when certain moving parts directly involved in the process cannot be made completely inaccessible during operation owing to operations requiring operator intervention, such parts must be fitted with:

• fixed guards or interlocking movable guards preventing access to those sections of the parts that are not used in the work, and

• adjustable guards as referred to in section 1.4.2.3 restricting access to those sections of the moving parts where access is necessary.

1.3.9. Risks of uncontrolled movements

When a part of the machinery has been stopped, any drift away from the stopping position, for whatever reason other than action on the control devices, must be prevented or must be such that it does not present a hazard.

1.4. REQUIRED CHARACTERISTICS OF GUARDS AND PROTECTIVE DEVICES

1.4.1. General requirements

Guards and protective devices must:

• be of robust construction,

• be securely held in place,

• not give rise to any additional hazard,

• not be easy to by-pass or render non-operational,

• be located at an adequate distance from the danger zone,

• cause minimum obstruction to the view of the production process, and

• enable essential work to be carried out on the installation and/or replacement of tools and for maintenance purposes by restricting access exclusively to the area where the work has to be done, if possible without the guard having to be removed or the protective device having to be disabled.

In addition, guards must, where possible, protect against the ejection or falling of materials or objects and against emissions generated by the machinery.

1.4.2. Special requirements for guards

1.4.2.1. Fixed guards

Fixed guards must be fixed by systems that can be opened or removed only with tools.

Their fixing systems must remain attached to the guards or to the machinery when the guards are removed.

Where possible, guards must be incapable of remaining in place without their fixings.

1.4.2.2. Interlocking movable guards

Interlocking movable guards must:

• as far as possible remain attached to the machinery when open,

• be designed and constructed in such a way that they can be adjusted only by means of an intentional action.

Interlocking movable guards must be associated with an interlocking device that:

• prevents the start of hazardous machinery functions until they are closed and

• gives a stop command whenever they are no longer closed.

Where it is possible for an operator to reach the danger zone before the risk due to the hazardous machinery functions has ceased, movable guards must be associated with a guard locking device in addition to an interlocking device that:

• prevents the start of hazardous machinery functions until the guard is closed and locked, and

• keeps the guard closed and locked until the risk of injury from the hazardous machinery functions has ceased.

Interlocking movable guards must be designed in such a way that the absence or failure of one of their components prevents starting or stops the hazardous machinery functions.

1.4.2.3. Adjustable guards restricting access

Adjustable guards restricting access to those areas of the moving parts strictly necessary for the work must be:

• adjustable manually or automatically, depending on the type of work involved, and

• readily adjustable without the use of tools.

1.4.3. Special requirements for protective devices

Protective devices must be designed and incorporated into the control system in such a way that:

• moving parts cannot start up while they are within the operator's reach,

• persons cannot reach moving parts while the parts are moving, and

• the absence or failure of one of their components prevents starting or stops the moving parts.

Protective devices must be adjustable only by means of an intentional action.

1.5. RISKS DUE TO OTHER HAZARDS

1.5.1. Electricity supply

Where machinery has an electricity supply, it must be designed, constructed and equipped in such a way that all hazards of an electrical nature are or can be prevented.

The safety objectives set out in Directive 73/23/EEC shall apply to machinery. However, the obligations concerning conformity assessment and the placing on the market and/or putting into service of machinery with regard to electrical hazards are governed solely by this Directive.

1.5.2. Static electricity

Machinery must be designed and constructed to prevent or limit the build-up of potentially dangerous electrostatic charges and/or be fitted with a discharging system.

1.5.3. Energy supply other than electricity

Where machinery is powered by source of energy other than electricity, it must be so designed, constructed and equipped as to avoid all potential risks associated with such sources of energy.

1.5.4. Errors of fitting

Errors likely to be made when fitting or refitting certain parts which could be a source of risk must be made impossible by the design and construction of such parts or, failing this, by information given on the parts themselves and/or their housings. The same information must be given on moving parts and/or their housings where the direction of movement needs to be known in order to avoid a risk.

Where necessary, the instructions must give further information on these risks.

Where a faulty connection can be the source of risk, incorrect connections must be made impossible by design or, failing this, by information given on the elements to be connected and, where appropriate, on the means of connection.

1.5.5. Extreme temperatures

Steps must be taken to eliminate any risk of injury arising from contact with or proximity to machinery parts or materials at high or very low temperatures.

The necessary steps must also be taken to avoid or protect against the risk of hot or very cold material being ejected.

1.5.6. Fire

Machinery must be designed and constructed in such a way as to avoid any risk of fire or overheating posed by the machinery itself or by gases, liquids, dust, vapours or other substances produced or used by the machinery.

1.5.7. Explosion

Machinery must be designed and constructed in such a way as to avoid any risk of explosion posed by the machinery itself or by gases, liquids, dust, vapours or other substances produced or used by the machinery.

Machinery must comply, as far as the risk of explosion due to its use in a potentially explosive atmosphere is concerned, with the provisions of the specific Community Directives.

1.5.8. Noise

Machinery must be designed and constructed in such a way that risks resulting from the emission of airborne noise are reduced to the lowest level, taking account of technical progress and the availability of means of reducing noise, in particular at source.

The level of noise emission may be assessed with reference to comparative emission data for similar machinery.

1.5.9. Vibrations

Machinery must be designed and constructed in such a way that risks resulting from vibrations produced by the machinery are reduced to the lowest level, taking account of technical progress and the availability of means of reducing vibration, in particular at source.

The level of vibration emission may be assessed with reference to comparative emission data for similar machinery.

1.5.10. Radiation

Undesirable radiation emissions from the machinery must be eliminated or be reduced to levels that do not have adverse effects on persons.

Any functional ionising radiation emissions must be limited to the lowest level which is sufficient for the proper functioning of the machinery during setting, operation and cleaning. Where a risk exists, the necessary protective measures must be taken.

Any functional non-ionising radiation emissions during setting, operation and cleaning must be limited to levels that do not have adverse effects on persons.

1.5.11. External radiation

Machinery must be designed and constructed in such a way that external radiation does not interfere with its operation.

1.5.12. Laser radiation

Where laser equipment is used, the following should be taken into account:

• laser equipment on machinery must be designed and constructed in such a way as to prevent any accidental radiation,

• laser equipment on machinery must be protected in such a way that effective radiation, radiation produced by reflection or diffusion and secondary radiation do not damage health,

• optical equipment for the observation or adjustment of laser equipment on machinery must be such that no health risk is created by laser radiation.

1.5.13. Emissions of hazardous materials and substances

Machinery must be designed and constructed in such a way that risks of inhalation, ingestion, contact with the skin, eyes and mucous membranes and penetration through the skin of hazardous materials and substances which it produces can be avoided.

Where a hazard cannot be eliminated, the machinery must be so equipped that hazardous materials and substances can be contained, evacuated, precipitated by water spraying, filtered or treated by another equally effective method.

Where the process is not totally enclosed during normal operation of the machinery, the devices for containment and/or evacuation must be situated in such a way as to have the maximum effect.

1.5.14. Risk of being trapped in a machine

Machinery must be designed, constructed or fitted with a means of preventing a person from being enclosed within it or, if that is impossible, with a means of summoning help.

1.5.15. Risk of slipping, tripping or falling

Parts of the machinery where persons are liable to move about or stand must be designed and constructed in such a way as to prevent persons slipping, tripping or falling on or off these parts.

Where appropriate, these parts must be fitted with handholds that are fixed relative to the user and that enable them to maintain their stability.

1.5.16. Lightning

Machinery in need of protection against the effects of lightning while being used must be fitted with a system for conducting the resultant electrical charge to earth.

1.6. MAINTENANCE

1.6.1. Machinery maintenance

Adjustment and maintenance points must be located outside danger zones. It must be possible to carry out adjustment, maintenance, repair, cleaning and servicing operations while machinery is at a standstill.

If one or more of the above conditions cannot be satisfied for technical reasons, measures must be taken to ensure that these operations can be carried out safely (see section 1.2.5).

In the case of automated machinery and, where necessary, other machinery, a connecting device for mounting diagnostic fault-finding equipment must be provided.

Automated machinery components which have to be changed frequently must be capable of being removed and replaced easily and safely. Access to the components must enable these tasks to be carried out with the necessary technical means in accordance with a specified operating method.

1.6.2. Access to operating positions and servicing points

Machinery must be designed and constructed in such a way as to allow access in safety to all areas where intervention is necessary during operation, adjustment and maintenance of the machinery.

1.6.3. Isolation of energy sources

Machinery must be fitted with means to isolate it from all energy sources. Such isolators must be clearly identified. They must be capable of being locked if reconnection could endanger persons. Isolators must also be capable of being locked where an operator is unable, from any of the points to which he has access, to check that the energy is still cut off.

In the case of machinery capable of being plugged into an electricity supply, removal of the plug is sufficient, provided that the operator can check from any of the points to which he has access that the plug remains removed.

After the energy is cut off, it must be possible to dissipate normally any energy remaining or stored in the circuits of the machinery without risk to persons.

As an exception to the requirement laid down in the previous paragraphs, certain circuits may remain connected to their energy sources in order, for example, to hold parts, to protect information, to light interiors, etc. In this case, special steps must be taken to ensure operator safety.

1.6.4. Operator intervention

Machinery must be so designed, constructed and equipped that the need for operator intervention is limited. If operator intervention cannot be avoided, it must be possible to carry it out easily and safely.

1.6.5. Cleaning of internal parts

The machinery must be designed and constructed in such a way that it is possible to clean internal parts which have contained dangerous substances or preparations without entering them; any necessary unblocking must also be possible from the outside. If it is impossible to avoid entering the machinery, it must be designed and constructed in such a way as to allow cleaning to take place safely.

1.7. INFORMATION

1.7.1. Information and warnings on the machinery

Information and warnings on the machinery should preferably be provided in the form of readily understandable symbols or pictograms. Any written or verbal information and warnings must be expressed in an official Community language or languages, which may be determined in accordance with the Treaty by the Member State in which the machinery is placed on the market and/or put into service and may be accompanied, on request, by versions in any other official Community language or languages understood by the operators.

1.7.1.1. Information and information devices

The information needed to control machinery must be provided in a form that is unambiguous and easily understood. It must not be excessive to the extent of overloading the operator.

Visual display units or any other interactive means of communication between the operator and the machine must be easily understood and easy to use.

1.7.1.2. Warning devices

Where the health and safety of persons may be endangered by a fault in the operation of unsupervised machinery, the machinery must be equipped in such a way as to give an appropriate acoustic or light signal as a warning.

Where machinery is equipped with warning devices these must be unambiguous and easily perceived. The operator must have facilities to check the operation of such warning devices at all times.

The requirements of the specific Community Directives concerning colours and safety signals must be complied with.

1.7.2. Warning of residual risks

Where risks remain despite the inherent safe design measures, safeguarding and complementary protective measures adopted, the necessary warnings, including warning devices, must be provided.

1.7.3. Marking of machinery

All machinery must be marked visibly, legibly and indelibly with the following minimum particulars:

• the business name and full address of the manufacturer and, where applicable, his authorised representative,

• designation of the machinery,

• the CE Marking (see Annex III),

• designation of series or type,

• serial number, if any,

• the year of construction, that is the year in which the manufacturing process is completed.

It is prohibited to pre-date or post-date the machinery when affixing the CE marking.

Furthermore, machinery designed and constructed for use in a potentially explosive atmosphere must be marked accordingly.

Machinery must also bear full information relevant to its type and essential for safe use. Such information is subject to the requirements set out in section 1.7.1.

Where a machine part must be handled during use with lifting equipment, its mass must be indicated legibly, indelibly and unambiguously.

1.7.4. Instructions

All machinery must be accompanied by instructions in the official Community language or languages of the Member State in which it is placed on the market and/or put into service.

The instructions accompanying the machinery must be either ‘Original instructions’ or a ‘Translation of the original instructions’, in which case the translation must be accompanied by the original instructions.

By way of exception, the maintenance instructions intended for use by specialised personnel mandated by the manufacturer or his authorised representative may be supplied in only one Community language which the specialised personnel understand.

The instructions must be drafted in accordance with the principles set out below.

1.7.4.1. General principles for the drafting of instructions

(a)

The instructions must be drafted in one or more official Community languages. The words ‘Original instructions’ must appear on the language version(s) verified by the manufacturer or his authorised representative.

(b)

Where no ‘Original instructions’ exist in the official language(s) of the country where the machinery is to be used, a translation into that/those language(s) must be provided by the manufacturer or his authorised representative or by the person bringing the machinery into the language area in question. The translations must bear the words ‘Translation of the original instructions’.

(c)

The contents of the instructions must cover not only the intended use of the machinery but also take into account any reasonably foreseeable misuse thereof.

(d)

In the case of machinery intended for use by non-professional operators, the wording and layout of the instructions for use must take into account the level of general education and acumen that can reasonably be expected from such operators.

1.7.4.2. Contents of the instructions

Each instruction manual must contain, where applicable, at least the following information:

(a)

the business name and full address of the manufacturer and of his authorised representative;

(b)

the designation of the machinery as marked on the machinery itself, except for the serial number (see section 1.7.3);

(c)

the EC declaration of conformity, or a document setting out the contents of the EC declaration of conformity, showing the particulars of the machinery, not necessarily including the serial number and the signature;

(d)

a general description of the machinery;

(e)

the drawings, diagrams, descriptions and explanations necessary for the use, maintenance and repair of the machinery and for checking its correct functioning;

(f)

a description of the workstation(s) likely to be occupied by operators;

(g)

a description of the intended use of the machinery;

(h)

warnings concerning ways in which the machinery must not be used that experience has shown might occur;

(i)

assembly, installation and connection instructions, including drawings, diagrams and the means of attachment and the designation of the chassis or installation on which the machinery is to be mounted;

(j)

instructions relating to installation and assembly for reducing noise or vibration;

(k)

instructions for the putting into service and use of the machinery and, if necessary, instructions for the training of operators;

(l)

information about the residual risks that remain despite the inherent safe design measures, safeguarding and complementary protective measures adopted;

(m)

instructions on the protective measures to be taken by the user, including, where appropriate, the personal protective equipment to be provided;

(n)

the essential characteristics of tools which may be fitted to the machinery;

(o)

the conditions in which the machinery meets the requirement of stability during use, transportation, assembly, dismantling when out of service, testing or foreseeable breakdowns;

(p)

instructions with a view to ensuring that transport, handling and storage operations can be made safely, giving the mass of the machinery and of its various parts where these are regularly to be transported separately;

(q)

the operating method to be followed in the event of accident or breakdown; if a blockage is likely to occur, the operating method to be followed so as to enable the equipment to be safely unblocked;

(r)

the description of the adjustment and maintenance operations that should be carried out by the user and the preventive maintenance measures that should be observed;

(s)

instructions designed to enable adjustment and maintenance to be carried out safely, including the protective measures that should be taken during these operations;

(t)

the specifications of the spare parts to be used, when these affect the health and safety of operators;

(u)

the following information on airborne noise emissions:

• the A-weighted emission sound pressure level at workstations, where this exceeds 70 dB(A); where this level does not exceed 70 dB(A), this fact must be indicated,

• the peak C-weighted instantaneous sound pressure value at workstations, where this exceeds 63 Pa (130 dB in relation to 20 μPa),

• the A-weighted sound power level emitted by the machinery, where the A-weighted emission sound pressure level at workstations exceeds 80 dB(A).

These values must be either those actually measured for the machinery in question or those established on the basis of measurements taken for technically comparable machinery which is representative of the machinery to be produced.

In the case of very large machinery, instead of the A-weighted sound power level, the A-weighted emission sound pressure levels at specified positions around the machinery may be indicated.

Where the harmonised standards are not applied, sound levels must be measured using the most appropriate method for the machinery. Whenever sound emission values are indicated the uncertainties surrounding these values must be specified. The operating conditions of the machinery during measurement and the measuring methods used must be described.

Where the workstation(s) are undefined or cannot be defined, A-weighted sound pressure levels must be measured at a distance of 1 metre from the surface of the machinery and at a height of 1,6 metres from the floor or access platform. The position and value of the maximum sound pressure must be indicated.

Where specific Community Directives lay down other requirements for the measurement of sound pressure levels or sound power levels, those Directives must be applied and the corresponding provisions of this section shall not apply;

(v)

where machinery is likely to emit non-ionising radiation which may cause harm to persons, in particular persons with active or non-active implantable medical devices, information concerning the radiation emitted for the operator and exposed persons.

1.7.4.3. Sales literature

Sales literature describing the machinery must not contradict the instructions as regards health and safety aspects. Sales literature describing the performance characteristics of machinery must contain the same information on emissions as is contained in the instructions.

2. SUPPLEMENTARY ESSENTIAL HEALTH AND SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR CERTAIN CATEGORIES OF MACHINERY

Foodstuffs machinery, machinery for cosmetics or pharmaceutical products, hand-held and/or hand-guided machinery, portable fixing and other impact machinery, machinery for working wood and material with similar physical characteristics must meet all the essential health and safety requirements described in this chapter (see General Principles, point 4).

2.1. FOODSTUFFS MACHINERY AND MACHINERY FOR COSMETICS OR PHARMACEUTICAL PRODUCTS

2.1.1. General

Machinery intended for use with foodstuffs or with cosmetics or pharmaceutical products must be designed and constructed in such a way as to avoid any risk of infection, sickness or contagion.

The following requirements must be observed:

(a)

materials in contact with, or intended to come into contact with, foodstuffs or cosmetics or pharmaceutical products must satisfy the conditions set down in the relevant Directives. The machinery must be designed and constructed in such a way that these materials can be cleaned before each use. Where this is not possible disposable parts must be used;

(b)

all surfaces in contact with foodstuffs or cosmetics or pharmaceutical products, other than surfaces of disposable parts, must:

• be smooth and have neither ridges nor crevices which could harbour organic materials. The same applies to their joinings,

• be designed and constructed in such a way as to reduce the projections, edges and recesses of assemblies to a minimum,

• be easily cleaned and disinfected, where necessary after removing easily dismantled parts; the inside surfaces must have curves with a radius sufficient to allow thorough cleaning;

(c)

it must be possible for liquids, gases and aerosols deriving from foodstuffs, cosmetics or pharmaceutical products as well as from cleaning, disinfecting and rinsing fluids to be completely discharged from the machinery (if possible, in a ‘cleaning’ position);

(d)

machinery must be designed and constructed in such a way as to prevent any substances or living creatures, in particular insects, from entering, or any organic matter from accumulating in, areas that cannot be cleaned;

(e)

machinery must be designed and constructed in such a way that no ancillary substances hazardous to health, including the lubricants used, can come into contact with foodstuffs, cosmetics or pharmaceutical products. Where necessary, machinery must be designed and constructed in such a way that continuing compliance with this requirement can be checked.

2.1.2. Instructions

The instructions for foodstuffs machinery and machinery for use with cosmetics or pharmaceutical products must indicate recommended products and methods for cleaning, disinfecting and rinsing, not only for easily accessible areas but also for areas to which access is impossible or inadvisable.

2.2. PORTABLE HAND-HELD AND/OR HAND-GUIDED MACHINERY

2.2.1. General

Portable hand-held and/or hand-guided machinery must:

• depending on the type of machinery, have a supporting surface of sufficient size and have a sufficient number of handles and supports of an appropriate size, arranged in such a way as to ensure the stability of the machinery under the intended operating conditions,

• except where technically impossible, or where there is an independent control device, in the case of handles which cannot be released in complete safety, be fitted with manual start and stop control devices arranged in such a way that the operator can operate them without releasing the handles,

• present no risks of accidental starting and/or continued operation after the operator has released the handles. Equivalent steps must be taken if this requirement is not technically feasible,

• permit, where necessary, visual observation of the danger zone and of the action of the tool with the material being processed.

The handles of portable machinery must be designed and constructed in such a way as to make starting and stopping straightforward.

2.2.1.1. Instructions

The instructions must give the following information concerning vibrations transmitted by portable hand-held and hand-guided machinery:

• the vibration total value to which the hand-arm system is subjected, if it exceeds 2,5 m/s². Where this value does not exceed 2,5 m/s², this must be mentioned,

• the uncertainty of measurement.

These values must be either those actually measured for the machinery in question or those established on the basis of measurements taken for technically comparable machinery which is representative of the machinery to be produced.

If harmonised standards are not applied, the vibration data must be measured using the most appropriate measurement code for the machinery.

The operating conditions during measurement and the methods used for measurement, or the reference of the harmonised standard applied, must be specified.

2.2.2. Portable fixing and other impact machinery

2.2.2.1. General

Portable fixing and other impact machinery must be designed and constructed in such a way that:

• energy is transmitted to the impacted element by the intermediary component that does not leave the device,

• an enabling device prevents impact unless the machinery is positioned correctly with adequate pressure on the base material,

• involuntary triggering is prevented; where necessary, an appropriate sequence of actions on the enabling device and the control device must be required to trigger an impact,

• accidental triggering is prevented during handling or in case of shock,

• loading and unloading operations can be carried out easily and safely.

Where necessary, it must be possible to fit the device with splinter guard(s) and the appropriate guard(s) must be provided by the manufacturer of the machinery.

2.2.2.2. Instructions

The instructions must give the necessary information regarding:

• the accessories and interchangeable equipment that can be used with the machinery,

• the suitable fixing or other impacted elements to be used with the machinery,

• where appropriate, the suitable cartridges to be used.

2.3. MACHINERY FOR WORKING WOOD AND MATERIAL WITH SIMILAR PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS

Machinery for working wood and materials with similar physical characteristics must comply with the following requirements:

(a)

the machinery must be designed, constructed or equipped in such a way that the piece being machined can be placed and guided in safety; where the piece is hand-held on a work-bench, the latter must be sufficiently stable during the work and must not impede the movement of the piece;

(b)

where the machinery is likely to be used in conditions involving the risk of ejection of workpieces or parts of them, it must be designed, constructed, or equipped in such a way as to prevent such ejection, or, if this is not possible, so that the ejection does not engender risks for the operator and/or exposed persons;

(c)

the machinery must be equipped with an automatic brake that stops the tool in a sufficiently short time if there is a risk of contact with the tool whilst it runs down;

(d)

where the tool is incorporated into a non-fully automated machine, the latter must be designed and constructed in such a way as to eliminate or reduce the risk of accidental injury.

3. SUPPLEMENTARY ESSENTIAL HEALTH AND SAFETY REQUIREMENTS TO OFFSET HAZARDS DUE TO THE MOBILITY OF MACHINERY

Machinery presenting hazards due to its mobility must meet all the essential health and safety requirements described in this chapter (see General Principles, point 4).

3.1. GENERAL

3.1.1. Definitions

(a)

‘Machinery presenting hazards due to its mobility’ means

• machinery the operation of which requires either mobility while working, or continuous or semi-continuous movement between a succession of fixed working locations, or

• machinery which is operated without being moved, but which may be equipped in such a way as to enable it to be moved more easily from one place to another.

(b)

‘Driver’ means an operator responsible for the movement of a machine. The driver may be transported by the machinery or may be on foot, accompanying the machinery, or may guide the machinery by remote control.

3.2. WORK POSITIONS

3.2.1. Driving position

Visibility from the driving position must be such that the driver can, in complete safety for himself and the exposed persons, operate the machinery and its tools in their foreseeable conditions of use. Where necessary, appropriate devices must be provided to remedy hazards due to inadequate direct vision.

Machinery on which the driver is transported must be designed and constructed in such a way that, from the driving positions, there is no risk to the driver from inadvertent contact with the wheels and tracks.

The driving position of ride-on drivers must be designed and constructed in such a way that a driver's cab may be fitted, provided this does not increase the risk and there is room for it. The cab must incorporate a place for the instructions needed for the driver.

3.2.2. Seating

Where there is a risk that operators or other persons transported by the machinery may be crushed between parts of the machinery and the ground should the machinery roll or tip over, in particular for machinery equipped with a protective structure referred to in section 3.4.3 or 3.4.4, their seats must be designed or equipped with a restraint system so as to keep the persons in their seats, without restricting movements necessary for operations or movements relative to the structure caused by the suspension of the seats. Such restraint systems should not be fitted if they increase the risk.

3.2.3. Positions for other persons

If the conditions of use provide that persons other than the driver may occasionally or regularly be transported by the machinery or work on it, appropriate positions must be provided which enable them to be transported or to work on it without risk.

The second and third paragraphs of section 3.2.1 also apply to the places provided for persons other than the driver.

3.3. CONTROL SYSTEMS

If necessary, steps must be taken to prevent unauthorised use of controls.

In the case of remote controls, each control unit must clearly identify the machinery to be controlled from that unit.

The remote control system must be designed and constructed in such a way as to affect only:

• the machinery in question,

• the functions in question.

Remote controlled machinery must be designed and constructed in such a way that it will respond only to signals from the intended control units.

3.3.1. Control devices

The driver must be able to actuate all control devices required to operate the machinery from the driving position, except for functions which can be safely actuated only by using control devices located elsewhere. These functions include, in particular, those for which operators other than the driver are responsible or for which the driver has to leave the driving position in order to control them safely.

Where there are pedals, they must be so designed, constructed and fitted as to allow safe operation by the driver with the minimum risk of incorrect operation. They must have a slip-resistant surface and be easy to clean.

Where their operation can lead to hazards, notably dangerous movements, the control devices, except for those with preset positions, must return to the neutral position as soon as they are released by the operator.

In the case of wheeled machinery, the steering system must be designed and constructed in such a way as to reduce the force of sudden movements of the steering wheel or the steering lever caused by shocks to the guide wheels.

Any control that locks the differential must be so designed and arranged that it allows the differential to be unlocked when the machinery is moving.

The sixth paragraph of section 1.2.2, concerning acoustic and/or visual warning signals, applies only in the case of reversing.

3.3.2. Starting/moving

All travel movements of self-propelled machinery with a ride-on driver must be possible only if the driver is at the controls.

Where, for operating purposes, machinery is fitted with devices which exceed its normal clearance zone (e.g. stabilisers, jib, etc.), the driver must be provided with the means of checking easily, before moving the machinery, that such devices are in a particular position which allows safe movement.

This also applies to all other parts which, to allow safe movement, have to be in particular positions, locked if necessary.

Where it does not give rise to other risks, movement of the machinery must depend on safe positioning of the aforementioned parts.

It must not be possible for unintentional movement of the machinery to occur while the engine is being started.

3.3.3. Travelling function

Without prejudice to road traffic regulations, self-propelled machinery and its trailers must meet the requirements for slowing down, stopping, braking and immobilisation so as to ensure safety under all the operating, load, speed, ground and gradient conditions allowed for.

The driver must be able to slow down and stop self-propelled machinery by means of a main device. Where safety so requires, in the event of a failure of the main device, or in the absence of the energy supply needed to actuate the main device, an emergency device with a fully independent and easily accessible control device must be provided for slowing down and stopping.

Where safety so requires, a parking device must be provided to render stationary machinery immobile. This device may be combined with one of the devices referred to in the second paragraph, provided that it is purely mechanical.

Remote-controlled machinery must be equipped with devices for stopping operation automatically and immediately and for preventing potentially dangerous operation in the following situations:

• if the driver loses control,

• if it receives a stop signal,

• if a fault is detected in a safety-related part of the system,

• if no validation signal is detected within a specified time.

Section 1.2.4 does not apply to the travelling function.

3.3.4. Movement of pedestrian-controlled machinery

Movement of pedestrian-controlled self-propelled machinery must be possible only through sustained action on the relevant control device by the driver. In particular, it must not be possible for movement to occur while the engine is being started.

The control systems for pedestrian-controlled machinery must be designed in such a way as to minimise the risks arising from inadvertent movement of the machine towards the driver, in particular:

• crushing,

• injury from rotating tools.

The speed of travel of the machinery must be compatible with the pace of a driver on foot.

In the case of machinery on which a rotary tool may be fitted, it must not be possible to actuate the tool when the reverse control is engaged, except where the movement of the machinery results from movement of the tool. In the latter case, the reversing speed must be such that it does not endanger the driver.

3.3.5. Control circuit failure

A failure in the power supply to the power-assisted steering, where fitted, must not prevent machinery from being steered during the time required to stop it.

3.4. PROTECTION AGAINST MECHANICAL HAZARDS

3.4.1. Uncontrolled movements

Machinery must be designed, constructed and where appropriate placed on its mobile support in such a way as to ensure that, when moved, uncontrolled oscillations of its centre of gravity do not affect its stability or exert excessive strain on its structure.

3.4.2. Moving transmission parts

By way of exception to section 1.3.8.1, in the case of engines, moveable guards preventing access to the moving parts in the engine compartment need not have interlocking devices if they have to be opened either by the use of a tool or key or by a control located in the driving position, providing the latter is in a fully enclosed cab with a lock to prevent unauthorised access.

3.4.3. Roll-over and tip-over

Where, in the case of self-propelled machinery with a ride-on driver, operator(s) or other person(s), there is a risk of rolling or tipping over, the machinery must be fitted with an appropriate protective structure, unless this increases the risk.

This structure must be such that in the event of rolling or tipping over it affords the ride-on person(s) an adequate deflection-limiting volume.

In order to verify that the structure complies with the requirement laid down in the second paragraph, the manufacturer or his authorised representative must, for each type of structure concerned, perform appropriate tests or have such tests performed.

3.4.4. Falling objects

Where, in the case of self-propelled machinery with a ride-on driver, operator(s) or other person(s), there is a risk due to falling objects or material, the machinery must be designed and constructed in such a way as to take account of this risk and fitted, if its size allows, with an appropriate protective structure.

This structure must be such that, in the event of falling objects or material, it guarantees the ride-on person(s) an adequate deflection-limiting volume.

In order to verify that the structure complies with the requirement laid down in the second paragraph, the manufacturer or his authorised representative must, for each type of structure concerned, perform appropriate tests or have such tests performed.

3.4.5. Means of access

Handholds and steps must be designed, constructed and arranged in such a way that the operators use them instinctively and do not use the control devices to assist access.

3.4.6. Towing devices

All machinery used to tow or to be towed must be fitted with towing or coupling devices designed, constructed and arranged in such a way as to ensure easy and secure connection and disconnection and to prevent accidental disconnection during use.

Insofar as the tow bar load so requires, such machinery must be equipped with a support with a bearing surface suited to the load and the ground.

3.4.7. Transmission of power between self-propelled machinery (or tractor) and recipient machinery

Removable mechanical transmission devices linking self-propelled machinery (or a tractor) to the first fixed bearing of recipient machinery must be designed and constructed in such a way that any part that moves during operation is protected over its whole length.

On the side of the self-propelled machinery (or tractor), the power take-off to which the removable mechanical transmission device is attached must be protected either by a guard fixed and linked to the self-propelled machinery (or tractor) or by any other device offering equivalent protection.

It must be possible to open this guard for access to the removable transmission device. Once it is in place, there must be enough room to prevent the drive shaft damaging the guard when the machinery (or the tractor) is moving.

On the recipient machinery side, the input shaft must be enclosed in a protective casing fixed to the machinery.

Torque limiters or freewheels may be fitted to universal joint transmissions only on the side adjoining the driven machinery. The removable mechanical transmission device must be marked accordingly.

All recipient machinery, the operation of which requires a removable mechanical transmission device to connect it to self-propelled machinery (or a tractor), must have a system for attaching the removable mechanical transmission device so that, when the machinery is uncoupled, the removable mechanical transmission device and its guard are not damaged by contact with the ground or part of the machinery.

The outside parts of the guard must be so designed, constructed and arranged that they cannot turn with the removable mechanical transmission device. The guard must cover the transmission to the ends of the inner jaws in the case of simple universal joints and at least to the centre of the outer joint or joints in the case of wide-angle universal joints.

If means of access to working positions are provided near to the removable mechanical transmission device, they must be designed and constructed in such a way that the shaft guards cannot be used as steps, unless designed and constructed for that purpose.

3.5. PROTECTION AGAINST OTHER HAZARDS

3.5.1. Batteries

The battery housing must be designed and constructed in such a way as to prevent the electrolyte being ejected on to the operator in the event of rollover or tipover and to avoid the accumulation of vapours in places occupied by operators.

Machinery must be designed and constructed in such a way that the battery can be disconnected with the aid of an easily accessible device provided for that purpose.

3.5.2. Fire

Depending on the hazards anticipated by the manufacturer, machinery must, where its size permits:

• either allow easily accessible fire extinguishers to be fitted, or

• be provided with built-in extinguisher systems.

3.5.3. Emissions of hazardous substances

The second and third paragraphs of section 1.5.13 do not apply where the main function of the machinery is the spraying of products. However, the operator must be protected against the risk of exposure to such hazardous emissions.

3.6. INFORMATION AND INDICATIONS

3.6.1. Signs, signals and warnings

All machinery must have signs and/or instruction plates concerning use, adjustment and maintenance, wherever necessary, so as to ensure the health and safety of persons. They must be chosen, designed and constructed in such a way as to be clearly visible and indelible.

Without prejudice to the provisions of road traffic regulations, machinery with a ride-on driver must have the following equipment:

• an acoustic warning device to alert persons,

• a system of light signals relevant to the intended conditions of use; the latter requirement does not apply to machinery intended solely for underground working and having no electrical power,

• where necessary, there must be an appropriate connection between a trailer and the machinery for the operation of signals.

Remote-controlled machinery which, under normal conditions of use, exposes persons to the risk of impact or crushing must be fitted with appropriate means to signal its movements or with means to protect persons against such risks. The same applies to machinery which involves, when in use, the constant repetition of a forward and backward movement on a single axis where the area to the rear of the machine is not directly visible to the driver.

Machinery must be constructed in such a way that the warning and signalling devices cannot be disabled unintentionally. Where it is essential for safety, such devices must be provided with the means to check that they are in good working order and their failure must be made apparent to the operator.

Where the movement of machinery or its tools is particularly hazardous, signs on the machinery must be provided to warn against approaching the machinery while it is working; the signs must be legible at a sufficient distance to ensure the safety of persons who have to be in the vicinity.

3.6.2. Marking

The following must be shown legibly and indelibly on all machinery:

• nominal power expressed in kilowatts (kW),

• mass of the most usual configuration, in kilograms (kg);

and, where appropriate:

• maximum drawbar pull provided for at the coupling hook, in Newtons (N),

• maximum vertical load provided for on the coupling hook, in Newtons (N).

3.6.3. Instructions

3.6.3.1. Vibrations

The instructions must give the following information concerning vibrations transmitted by the machinery to the hand-arm system or to the whole body:

• the vibration total value to which the hand-arm system is subjected, if it exceeds 2,5 m/s². Where this value does not exceed 2,5 m/s², this must be mentioned,

• the highest root mean square value of weighted acceleration to which the whole body is subjected, if it exceeds 0,5 m/s². Where this value does not exceed 0,5 m/s², this must be mentioned,

• the uncertainty of measurement.

These values must be either those actually measured for the machinery in question or those established on the basis of measurements taken for technically comparable machinery which is representative of the machinery to be produced.

Where harmonised standards are not applied, the vibration must be measured using the most appropriate measurement code for the machinery concerned.

The operating conditions during measurement and the measurement codes used must be described.

3.6.3.2. Multiple uses

The instructions for machinery allowing several uses depending on the equipment used and the instructions for the interchangeable equipment must contain the information necessary for safe assembly and use of the basic machinery and the interchangeable equipment that can be fitted.

4. SUPPLEMENTARY ESSENTIAL HEALTH AND SAFETY REQUIREMENTS TO OFFSET HAZARDS DUE TO LIFTING OPERATIONS

Machinery presenting hazards due to lifting operations must meet all the relevant essential health and safety requirements described in this chapter (see General Principles, point 4).

4.1. GENERAL

4.1.1. Definitions

(a)

‘Lifting operation’ means a movement of unit loads consisting of goods and/or persons necessitating, at a given moment, a change of level.

(b)

‘Guided load’ means a load where the total movement is made along rigid or flexible guides whose position is determined by fixed points.

(c)

‘Working coefficient’ means the arithmetic ratio between the load guaranteed by the manufacturer or his authorised representative up to which a component is able to hold it and the maximum working load marked on the component.

(d)

‘Test coefficient’ means the arithmetic ratio between the load used to carry out the static or dynamic tests on lifting machinery or a lifting accessory and the maximum working load marked on the lifting machinery or lifting accessory.

(e)

‘Static test’ means the test during which lifting machinery or a lifting accessory is first inspected and subjected to a force corresponding to the maximum working load multiplied by the appropriate static test coefficient and then re-inspected once the said load has been released to ensure that no damage has occurred.

(f)

‘Dynamic test’ means the test during which lifting machinery is operated in all its possible configurations at the maximum working load multiplied by the appropriate dynamic test coefficient with account being taken of the dynamic behaviour of the lifting machinery in order to check that it functions properly.

(g)

‘Carrier’ means a part of the machinery on or in which persons and/or goods are supported in order to be lifted.

4.1.2. Protection against mechanical hazards

4.1.2.1. Risks due to lack of stability

Machinery must be designed and constructed in such a way that the stability required by section 1.3.1 is maintained both in service and out of service, including all stages of transportation, assembly and dismantling, during foreseeable component failures and also during the tests carried out in accordance with the instruction handbook. To that end, the manufacturer or his authorised representative must use the appropriate verification methods.

4.1.2.2. Machinery running on guide rails and rail tracks

Machinery must be provided with devices which act on the guide rails or tracks to prevent derailment.

If, despite such devices, there remains a risk of derailment or of failure of a rail or of a running component, devices must be provided which prevent the equipment, component or load from falling or the machinery from overturning.

4.1.2.3. Mechanical strength

Machinery, lifting accessories and their components must be capable of withstanding the stresses to which they are subjected, both in and, where applicable, out of use, under the installation and operating conditions provided for and in all relevant configurations, with due regard, where appropriate, to the effects of atmospheric factors and forces exerted by persons. This requirement must also be satisfied during transport, assembly and dismantling.

Machinery and lifting accessories must be designed and constructed in such a way as to prevent failure from fatigue and wear, taking due account of their intended use.

The materials used must be chosen on the basis of the intended working environments, with particular regard to corrosion, abrasion, impacts, extreme temperatures, fatigue, brittleness and ageing.

Machinery and lifting accessories must be designed and constructed in such a way as to withstand the overload in the static tests without permanent deformation or patent defect. Strength calculations must take account of the value of the static test coefficient chosen to guarantee an adequate level of safety. That coefficient has, as a general rule, the following values:

(a)

manually-operated machinery and lifting accessories: 1,5;

(b)

other machinery: 1,25.

Machinery must be designed and constructed in such a way as to undergo, without failure, the dynamic tests carried out using the maximum working load multiplied by the dynamic test coefficient. This dynamic test coefficient is chosen so as to guarantee an adequate level of safety: the coefficient is, as a general rule, equal to 1,1. As a general rule, the tests will be performed at the nominal speeds provided for. Should the control circuit of the machinery allow for a number of simultaneous movements, the tests must be carried out under the least favourable conditions, as a general rule by combining the movements concerned.

4.1.2.4. Pulleys, drums, wheels, ropes and chains

Pulleys, drums and wheels must have a diameter commensurate with the size of the ropes or chains with which they can be fitted.

Drums and wheels must be designed, constructed and installed in such a way that the ropes or chains with which they are equipped can be wound without coming off.

Ropes used directly for lifting or supporting the load must not include any splicing other than at their ends. Splicings are, however, tolerated in installations which are intended by design to be modified regularly according to needs of use.

Complete ropes and their endings must have a working coefficient chosen in such a way as to guarantee an adequate level of safety. As a general rule, this coefficient is equal to 5.

Lifting chains must have a working coefficient chosen in such a way as to guarantee an adequate level of safety. As a general rule, this coefficient is equal to 4.

In order to verify that an adequate working coefficient has been attained, the manufacturer or his authorised representative must, for each type of chain and rope used directly for lifting the load and for the rope ends, perform the appropriate tests or have such tests performed.

4.1.2.5. Lifting accessories and their components

Lifting accessories and their components must be sized with due regard to fatigue and ageing processes for a number of operating cycles consistent with their expected life-span as specified in the operating conditions for a given application.

Moreover:

(a)

the working coefficient of wire-rope/rope-end combinations must be chosen in such a way as to guarantee an adequate level of safety; this coefficient is, as a general rule, equal to 5. Ropes must not comprise any splices or loops other than at their ends;

(b)

where chains with welded links are used, they must be of the short-link type. The working coefficient of chains must be chosen in such a way as to guarantee an adequate level of safety; this coefficient is, as a general rule, equal to 4;

(c)

the working coefficient for textile ropes or slings is dependent on the material, method of manufacture, dimensions and use. This coefficient must be chosen in such a way as to guarantee an adequate level of safety; it is, as a general rule, equal to 7, provided the materials used are shown to be of very good quality and the method of manufacture is appropriate to the intended use. Should this not be the case, the coefficient is, as a general rule, set at a higher level in order to secure an equivalent level of safety. Textile ropes and slings must not include any knots, connections or splicing other than at the ends of the sling, except in the case of an endless sling;

(d)

all metallic components making up, or used with, a sling must have a working coefficient chosen in such a way as to guarantee an adequate level of safety; this coefficient is, as a general rule, equal to 4;

(e)

the maximum working load of a multilegged sling is determined on the basis of the working coefficient of the weakest leg, the number of legs and a reduction factor which depends on the slinging configuration;

(f)

in order to verify that an adequate working coefficient has been attained, the manufacturer or his authorised representative must, for each type of component referred to in (a), (b), (c) and (d), perform the appropriate tests or have such tests performed.

4.1.2.6. Control of movements

Devices for controlling movements must act in such a way that the machinery on which they are installed is kept safe.

(a)

Machinery must be designed and constructed or fitted with devices in such a way that the amplitude of movement of its components is kept within the specified limits. The operation of such devices must, where appropriate, be preceded by a warning.

(b)

Where several fixed or rail-mounted machines can be manoeuvred simultaneously in the same place, with risks of collision, such machinery must be designed and constructed in such a way as to make it possible to fit systems enabling these risks to be avoided.

(c)

Machinery must be designed and constructed in such a way that the loads cannot creep dangerously or fall freely and unexpectedly, even in the event of partial or total failure of the power supply or when the operator stops operating the machine.

(d)

It must not be possible, under normal operating conditions, to lower the load solely by friction brake, except in the case of machinery whose function requires it to operate in that way.

(e)

Holding devices must be designed and constructed in such a way that inadvertent dropping of the loads is avoided.

4.1.2.7. Movements of loads during handling

The operating position of machinery must be located in such a way as to ensure the widest possible view of trajectories of the moving parts, in order to avoid possible collisions with persons, equipment or other machinery which might be manoeuvring at the same time and liable to constitute a hazard.

Machinery with guided loads must be designed and constructed in such a way as to prevent persons from being injured by movement of the load, the carrier or the counterweights, if any.

4.1.2.8. Machinery serving fixed landings

4.1.2.8.1. Movements of the carrier

The movement of the carrier of machinery serving fixed landings must be rigidly guided to and at the landings. Scissor systems are also regarded as rigid guidance.

4.1.2.8.2. Access to the carrier

Where persons have access to the carrier, the machinery must be designed and constructed in such a way as to ensure that the carrier remains stationary during access, in particular while it is being loaded or unloaded.

The machinery must be designed and constructed in such a way as to ensure that the difference in level between the carrier and the landing being served does not create a risk of tripping.

4.1.2.8.3. Risks due to contact with the moving carrier

Where necessary in order to fulfil the requirement expressed in the second paragraph of section 4.1.2.7, the travel zone must be rendered inaccessible during normal operation.

When, during inspection or maintenance, there is a risk that persons situated under or above the carrier may be crushed between the carrier and any fixed parts, sufficient free space must be provided either by means of physical refuges or by means of mechanical devices blocking the movement of the carrier.

4.1.2.8.4. Risk due to the load falling off the carrier

Where there is a risk due to the load falling off the carrier, the machinery must be designed and constructed in such a way as to prevent this risk.

4.1.2.8.5. Landings

Risks due to contact of persons at landings with the moving carrier or other moving parts must be prevented.

Where there is a risk due to persons falling into the travel zone when the carrier is not present at the landings, guards must be fitted in order to prevent this risk. Such guards must not open in the direction of the travel zone. They must be fitted with an interlocking device controlled by the position of the carrier that prevents:

• hazardous movements of the carrier until the guards are closed and locked,

• hazardous opening of a guard until the carrier has stopped at the corresponding landing.

4.1.3. Fitness for purpose

When lifting machinery or lifting accessories are placed on the market or are first put into service, the manufacturer or his authorised representative must ensure, by taking appropriate measures or having them taken, that the machinery or the lifting accessories which are ready for use — whether manually or power-operated — can fulfil their specified functions safely.

The static and dynamic tests referred to in section 4.1.2.3 must be performed on all lifting machinery ready to be put into service.

Where the machinery cannot be assembled in the manufacturer's premises or in the premises of his authorised representative, the appropriate measures must be taken at the place of use. Otherwise, the measures may be taken either in the manufacturer's premises or at the place of use.

4.2. REQUIREMENTS FOR MACHINERY WHOSE POWER SOURCE IS OTHER THAN MANUAL EFFORT

4.2.1. Control of movements

Hold-to-run control devices must be used to control the movements of the machinery or its equipment. However, for partial or complete movements in which there is no risk of the load or the machinery colliding, the said devices may be replaced by control devices authorising automatic stops at pre-selected positions without the operator holding a hold-to-run control device.

4.2.2. Loading control

Machinery with a maximum working load of not less than 1 000 kilograms or an overturning moment of not less than 40 000 Nm must be fitted with devices to warn the driver and prevent dangerous movements in the event:

• of overloading, either as a result of the maximum working load or the maximum working moment due to the load being exceeded, or

• of the overturning moment being exceeded.

4.2.3. Installations guided by ropes

Rope carriers, tractors or tractor carriers must be held by counterweights or by a device allowing permanent control of the tension.

4.3. INFORMATION AND MARKINGS

4.3.1. Chains, ropes and webbing

Each length of lifting chain, rope or webbing not forming part of an assembly must bear a mark or, where this is not possible, a plate or irremovable ring bearing the name and address of the manufacturer or his authorised representative and the identifying reference of the relevant certificate.

The certificate mentioned above must show at least the following information:

(a)

the name and address of the manufacturer and, if appropriate, his authorised representative;

(b)

a description of the chain or rope which includes:

• its nominal size,

• its construction,

• the material from which it is made, and

• any special metallurgical treatment applied to the material;

(c)

the test method used;

(d)

the maximum load to which the chain or rope should be subjected in service. A range of values may be given on the basis of the intended applications.

4.3.2. Lifting accessories

Lifting accessories must show the following particulars:

• identification of the material where this information is needed for safe use,

• the maximum working load.

In the case of lifting accessories on which marking is physically impossible, the particulars referred to in the first paragraph must be displayed on a plate or other equivalent means and securely affixed to the accessory.

The particulars must be legible and located in a place where they are not liable to disappear as a result of wear or jeopardise the strength of the accessory.

4.3.3. Lifting machinery

The maximum working load must be prominently marked on the machinery. This marking must be legible, indelible and in an un-coded form.

Where the maximum working load depends on the configuration of the machinery, each operating position must be provided with a load plate indicating, preferably in diagrammatic form or by means of tables, the working load permitted for each configuration.

Machinery intended for lifting goods only, equipped with a carrier which allows access to persons, must bear a clear and indelible warning prohibiting the lifting of persons. This warning must be visible at each place where access is possible.

4.4. INSTRUCTIONS

4.4.1. Lifting accessories

Each lifting accessory or each commercially indivisible batch of lifting accessories must be accompanied by instructions setting out at least the following particulars:

(a)

the intended use;

(b)

the limits of use (particularly for lifting accessories such as magnetic or vacuum pads which do not fully comply with section 4.1.2.6(e));

(c)

instructions for assembly, use and maintenance;

(d)

the static test coefficient used.

4.4.2. Lifting machinery

Lifting machinery must be accompanied by instructions containing information on:

(a)

the technical characteristics of the machinery, and in particular:

• the maximum working load and, where appropriate, a copy of the load plate or load table described in the second paragraph of section 4.3.3,

• the reactions at the supports or anchors and, where appropriate, characteristics of the tracks,

• where appropriate, the definition and the means of installation of the ballast;

(b)

the contents of the logbook, if the latter is not supplied with the machinery;

(c)

advice for use, particularly to offset the lack of direct vision of the load by the operator;

(d)

where appropriate, a test report detailing the static and dynamic tests carried out by or for the manufacturer or his authorised representative;

(e)

for machinery which is not assembled on the premises of the manufacturer in the form in which it is to be used, the necessary instructions for performing the measures referred to in section 4.1.3 before it is first put into service.

5. SUPPLEMENTARY ESSENTIAL HEALTH AND SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR MACHINERY INTENDED FOR UNDERGROUND WORK

Machinery intended for underground work must meet all the essential health and safety requirements described in this chapter (see General Principles, point 4).

5.1. RISKS DUE TO LACK OF STABILITY

Powered roof supports must be designed and constructed in such a way as to maintain a given direction when moving and not slip before and while they come under load and after the load has been removed. They must be equipped with anchorages for the top plates of the individual hydraulic props.

5.2. MOVEMENT

Powered roof supports must allow for unhindered movement of persons.

5.3. CONTROL DEVICES

The accelerator and brake controls for movement of machinery running on rails must be hand-operated. However, enabling devices may be foot-operated.

The control devices of powered roof supports must be designed and positioned in such a way that, during displacement operations, operators are sheltered by a support in place. The control devices must be protected against any accidental release.

5.4. STOPPING

Self-propelled machinery running on rails for use in underground work must be equipped with an enabling device acting on the circuit controlling the movement of the machinery such that movement is stopped if the driver is no longer in control of the movement.

5.5. FIRE

The second indent of section 3.5.2 is mandatory in respect of machinery which comprises highly flammable parts.

The braking system of machinery intended for use in underground workings must be designed and constructed in such a way that it does not produce sparks or cause fires.

Machinery with internal combustion engines for use in underground workings must be fitted only with engines using fuel with a low vaporising pressure and which exclude any spark of electrical origin.

5.6. EXHAUST EMISSIONS

Exhaust emissions from internal combustion engines must not be discharged upwards.

6. SUPPLEMENTARY ESSENTIAL HEALTH AND SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR MACHINERY PRESENTING PARTICULAR HAZARDS DUE TO THE LIFTING OF PERSONS

Machinery presenting hazards due to the lifting of persons must meet all the relevant essential health and safety requirements described in this chapter (see General Principles, point 4).

6.1. GENERAL

6.1.1. Mechanical strength

The carrier, including any trapdoors, must be designed and constructed in such a way as to offer the space and strength corresponding to the maximum number of persons permitted on the carrier and the maximum working load.

The working coefficients for components set out in sections 4.1.2.4 and 4.1.2.5 are inadequate for machinery intended for the lifting of persons and must, as a general rule, be doubled. Machinery intended for lifting persons or persons and goods must be fitted with a suspension or supporting system for the carrier designed and constructed in such a way as to ensure an adequate overall level of safety and to prevent the risk of the carrier falling.

If ropes or chains are used to suspend the carrier, as a general rule, at least two independent ropes or chains are required, each with its own anchorage.

6.1.2. Loading control for machinery moved by power other than human strength

The requirements of section 4.2.2 apply regardless of the maximum working load and overturning moment, unless the manufacturer can demonstrate that there is no risk of overloading or overturning.

6.2. CONTROL DEVICES

Where safety requirements do not impose other solutions, the carrier must, as a general rule, be designed and constructed in such a way that persons in the carrier have means of controlling upward and downward movements and, if appropriate, other movements of the carrier.

In operation, those control devices must override any other devices controlling the same movement with the exception of emergency stop devices.

The control devices for these movements must be of the hold-to-run type except where the carrier itself is completely enclosed.

6.3. RISKS TO PERSONS IN OR ON THE CARRIER

6.3.1. Risks due to movements of the carrier

Machinery for lifting persons must be designed, constructed or equipped in such a way that the acceleration or deceleration of the carrier does not engender risks for persons.

6.3.2. Risk of persons falling from the carrier

The carrier must not tilt to an extent which creates a risk of the occupants falling, including when the machinery and carrier are moving.

Where the carrier is designed as a work station, provision must be made to ensure stability and to prevent hazardous movements.

If the measures referred to in section 1.5.15 are not adequate, carriers must be fitted with a sufficient number of suitable anchorage points for the number of persons permitted on the carrier. The anchorage points must be strong enough for the use of personal protective equipment against falls from a height.

Any trapdoor in floors or ceilings or side doors must be designed and constructed in such a way as to prevent inadvertent opening and must open in a direction that obviates any risk of falling, should they open unexpectedly.

6.3.3. Risk due to objects falling on the carrier

Where there is a risk of objects falling on the carrier and endangering persons, the carrier must be equipped with a protective roof.

6.4. MACHINERY SERVING FIXED LANDINGS

6.4.1. Risks to persons in or on the carrier

The carrier must be designed and constructed in such a way as to prevent risks due to contact between persons and/or objects in or on the carrier with any fixed or moving elements. Where necessary in order to fulfil this requirement, the carrier itself must be completely enclosed with doors fitted with an interlocking device that prevents hazardous movements of the carrier unless the doors are closed. The doors must remain closed if the carrier stops between landings where there is a risk of falling from the carrier.

The machinery must be designed, constructed and, where necessary, equipped with devices in such a way as to prevent uncontrolled upward or downward movement of the carrier. These devices must be able to stop the carrier at its maximum working load and at the foreseeable maximum speed.

The stopping action must not cause deceleration harmful to the occupants, whatever the load conditions.

6.4.2. Controls at landings

Controls, other than those for emergency use, at landings must not initiate movements of the carrier when:

• the control devices in the carrier are being operated,

• the carrier is not at a landing.

6.4.3. Access to the carrier

The guards at the landings and on the carrier must be designed and constructed in such a way as to ensure safe transfer to and from the carrier, taking into consideration the foreseeable range of goods and persons to be lifted.

6.5. MARKINGS

The carrier must bear the information necessary to ensure safety including:

• the number of persons permitted on the carrier,

• the maximum working load.