What is ISO 13852:2018

The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) has published ISO 13852:2018, which specifies the safety distances to prevent hazard zones being reached by upper and lower limbs. This standard is of great importance in the field of machine safety, as it provides guidance on how to design and implement safety measures to protect workers from potential hazards.

Key Principles of ISO 13852:2018

ISO 13852:2018 defines three main principles to ensure safety distances are properly established:

Reach distances: These are the distances that must not be accessible by a person, considering the body dimensions and extending reach capabilities. The aim is to prevent any part of the body from reaching hazardous areas or dangerous moving parts.

Safe distances: These are the distances that should be kept clear for avoiding unexpected contact with hazardous parts of machinery. This includes maintaining enough space to prevent accidental entrapment or entanglement.

Safety-related parts of control systems: ISO 13852:2018 also emphasizes the need for reliable safety-related parts, such as emergency stops or safety interlocks, to prevent access to hazard zones when required.

Implementation and Compliance

To comply with ISO 13852:2018, machine manufacturers and operators should follow these steps:

Risk assessment: Identify potential hazards associated with the machinery and evaluate the risks they pose to users.

Determine safety distance: Calculate the appropriate safety distances based on the specific requirements of ISO 13852:2018 and the results of the risk assessment.

Implement safety measures: Install physical barriers, safety guards, or other protective devices to ensure that the established safety distances are maintained and hazardous zones are inaccessible.

Regular maintenance and testing: Periodically inspect and test the safety measures to ensure they remain effective and functional.

By following these guidelines, companies can effectively improve worker safety and minimize the risk of accidents caused by machine operations.

Conclusion

ISO 13852:2018 plays a crucial role in shaping safety practices within the machinery industry. By specifying safety distances and emphasizing the importance of reliable safety-related parts, this standard provides a framework for ensuring worker protection and reducing the likelihood of workplace accidents. Compliance with ISO 13852:2018 is essential to create a safe working environment and reduce the potential for injuries caused by machine hazards.