What is EN 13857:2018?

The EN 13857:2018 is a technical standard that provides guidelines for assessing and reducing the risk of mechanical hazards associated with machinery. It was developed by the European Committee for Standardization (CEN) and is commonly used in the European Union.

Scope of EN 13857:2018

This standard applies to new machinery, as well as to the modification, rebuilding, or retrofitting of existing machinery. It covers a wide range of potential hazards, including crushing, shearing, trapping, cutting, and impact. The standard also addresses issues related to machinery guards and protective devices.

Key Requirements of EN 13857:2018

One of the key requirements of EN 13857:2018 is the identification and assessment of hazards associated with machinery. This includes conducting a risk assessment to determine the severity and likelihood of potential accidents or injuries. Based on this assessment, appropriate measures should be taken to reduce the risks to an acceptable level.

The standard also emphasizes the importance of implementing safety measures during the design and construction phases of machinery. This includes ensuring that all relevant safety requirements are met and that appropriate safeguards and warning labels are provided. Regular inspections, maintenance, and testing of machinery are also essential to ensure ongoing compliance with the standard.

Benefits of Compliance

Complying with EN 13857:2018 offers several benefits to manufacturers and users of machinery. Firstly, it helps improve the overall safety of machinery and reduces the risk of accidents and injuries. This can result in reduced liability costs for manufacturers and increased confidence from machine operators.

Furthermore, complying with the standard ensures that machinery meets recognized safety requirements, which can facilitate international trade. Many countries worldwide have adopted similar standards, so compliance with EN 13857:2018 can help manufacturers access global markets.

Conclusion

The EN 13857:2018 is an important technical standard that aims to ensure the safe design, construction, and use of machinery. It provides clear guidelines for assessing and reducing the risk of mechanical hazards, helping to protect machine operators and prevent accidents. Compliance with this standard offers significant benefits to both manufacturers and users, making it a crucial requirement for anyone involved in the machinery industry.