From 20 January 2027, Regulation (EU) 2023/1230 enters into application
The industrial machinery sector is preparing for a major regulatory change. From 20 January 2027 the new Machinery Regulation (EU) 2023/1230 Definitely replaces the historical Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC, introducing new requirements for the design, construction, conformity assessment and technical documentation of machinery.
The move from a Directive to a European Regulation introduces a more uniform application of the rules in the Member States and requires companies to update their approach to machine safety.
Why does the Machinery Regulation change?
Technological developments in recent years have profoundly changed the way industrial machines are designed and used.
Automation, software, artificial intelligence, connected systems and new ways of human-machine interaction have introduced new risks that the previous legislation did not specifically regulate.
The new Regulation therefore updates the concept of safety, extending it beyond the mechanical and electrical aspects, but also the aspects related to digitalization and the management of emerging risks come into play.
The main innovations introduced
Increased focus on digital systems and software
The new regulatory framework gives an increasingly important role to software, programmable electronic systems, software and automatic functions, which directly affect the safety of the machine.
Companies will also need to assess risks related to digital operation and connectivity, including:
- software updates;
- complex control systems;
- interconnection of machinery;
- Vulnerabilities related to cybersecurity.
New requirements for artificial intelligence and advanced technologies
The Regulation devotes more attention to machines that integrate systems based on advanced technologies, including systems capable of modifying their behavior during operation.
For these solutions, it will be necessary to assess more precisely the risks introduced and clearly document the technical choices adopted.
Evolution of technical documentation
Documentation also takes on more weight.
Operating and maintenance manuals, technical file, risk analysis and EU declaration of conformity shall reflect the actual configuration of the machinery and be kept up to date throughout the life cycle of the product.
Document management thus becomes a strategic element both to demonstrate compliance and to ensure proper security management.
What should companies do before 2027?
Manufacturers, integrators and users should already start checking the impact of the new Regulation on their processes and products.
In particular, it will be important to:
- verify the conformity of new designs;
- update procedures and technical documentation;
- assess any changes to existing machines;
- analyse the new requirements applicable to its products.
Preparing for change
The new Machinery Regulation represents a regulatory challenge, but also an opportunity to improve the design, safety and life cycle management of machines.
Progesto supports companies in adapting to the new legislation, from the verification of the applicable requirements to the analysis of the technical documentation, up to the drafting of the manuals and support along the compliance path.
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Progesto supports companies from the preliminary verification of assets to the management of technical documentation and procedures provided by the GSE.