What is EN ISO 12100:2021?

EN ISO 12100:2021 is an international standard that provides guidelines for ensuring the safety of machinery. It is a comprehensive document that covers the entire life cycle of machinery, from design and construction to use and maintenance.

Designing Safe Machinery

The standard emphasizes the importance of considering safety during the design phase of machinery. Designers need to identify and eliminate or reduce hazards that could be present in the machine's lifecycle. This includes not only mechanical hazards but also electrical, chemical, and ergonomic hazards.

In addition, the standard provides guidance on risk assessment methods to evaluate the severity and likelihood of potential injury or harm. It also offers a hierarchy of control measures to mitigate risks, including elimination, substitution, engineering controls, administrative controls, and personal protective equipment.

Construction and Installation

EN ISO 12100:2021 also addresses the construction and installation of machinery. This includes requirements for stability, mechanical strength, and electrical safety. It provides guidelines on proper installation procedures, such as correctly connecting power sources, grounding equipment, and ensuring proper alignment and calibration.

The standard also covers the safe mounting, dismounting, and transportation of machinery. It highlights the importance of providing clear instructions and warnings to users, as well as appropriate training on how to safely operate and maintain the machinery.

Use and Maintenance

Once machinery is in use, it is crucial to ensure ongoing safety. EN ISO 12100:2021 recommends regular inspections, maintenance, and testing to identify and address any potential hazards or malfunctions. It provides guidelines on how to establish maintenance programs, including routine checks, repairs, and updates.

The standard also emphasizes the importance of effective communication between manufacturers, suppliers, and end-users. It encourages the sharing of information on machinery safety, including updates on potential risks, modifications, or recalls.

In conclusion, EN ISO 12100:2021 is a crucial standard for ensuring the safe design, construction, installation, use, and maintenance of machinery. Adhering to its guidelines helps protect workers and users from potential hazards, ultimately reducing the risk of accidents and injuries in the workplace.