Latest update: 26/10/2022

Guide to application of the Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC

Published in 2024, this guide explains the concepts and requirements of Directive 2006/42/EC to ensure uniform interpretation and application across the EU.

Aims
Directive 2006/42/EC contains provisions for machinery products that are placed on the market. The Directive aims at harmonising the health and safety requirements guaranteeing a high level of protection for EU workers and citizens, while ensuring the free circulation of machinery on the EU market.
The purpose of the Guide to application of the Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC (edition 2.3) is to provide explanations on the content of Directive 2006/42/EC in order to facilitate a uniform application throughout the EU. It is addressed to all of the parties involved in applying the Machinery Directive, including machinery manufacturers, importers and distributors, Notified Bodies, OSH and consumer protection agencies and officials of the relevant national administrations and market surveillance authorities.

Contents
The comprehensive guide provides explanations for every item of the Directive: citations, recitals, articles and annexes. Each part starts with the text from the Directive, presented in boxed red italic type, followed by a comment section. From an OSH perspective, the explanations in the sections on Annex I Essential health and safety requirements relating to the design and construction of machinery are particularly interesting. These sections provide information on aspects such as machine guarding, noise emissions, vibration, etc. Guidance on the ergonomic requirements is available in a complementary document

Publication details
Published by: European Commission, Directorate-General for Internal Market, Industry, Entrepreneurship and SMEs
Publication date: October 2024
Number of pages: 442 pp.

Available in languages

English