Following best practices for the SN EN ISO 14122-2:2016 compliance is essential for ensuring safety and audit readiness in machinery access. By adhering to these practices, organizations can mitigate risks associated with slipping, tripping, and falling, while also aligning with regulatory standards.

Best practices at a glance

This checklist highlights key best practices that cover the essential requirements for permanent means of access to machinery as outlined in SN EN ISO 14122-2:2016. Each practice is directly linked to specific clauses of the standard, ensuring that your organization meets compliance and safety expectations effectively.

The practices

1. Ensure Accessible Design: Design working platforms and walkways to be accessible for all users, following the guidelines in Clause 5 of ISO 14122-2:2016. This is crucial to avoid risks of accidents and non-compliance during audits, as it promotes inclusivity and safety in the workplace.

2. Implement Slip-Resistant Surfaces: Use materials with appropriate slip resistance for walkways and platforms, as specified in Clause 6.3. This practice minimizes the risk of slipping, which is a significant safety concern and a common point of failure in compliance checks.

3. Regularly Inspect and Maintain Access Points: Establish a routine inspection and maintenance schedule for all access points, in accordance with Clause 7. This is vital for identifying wear and tear that could lead to safety hazards, thus ensuring ongoing compliance and reducing liability risks.

4. Provide Clear Signage: Install clear and visible signage indicating safe access routes, as outlined in Clause 8. Proper signage helps guide users and can prevent accidents, making it a key expectation during audits.

5. Ensure Adequate Load Capacity: Design working platforms to support the expected load, in line with Clause 6.2. This practice is essential for preventing structural failures, which can lead to severe accidents and non-compliance consequences.

6. Incorporate Adjustable Components: Design access systems with adjustable components that accommodate varying user needs, referencing Clause 4. This flexibility enhances usability while meeting compliance requirements, fulfilling auditor expectations for safety adaptability.

7. Train Staff on Safe Access Procedures: Conduct regular training sessions to educate staff on safe access protocols, as required by Clause 5. This practice is crucial for organizational safety culture and compliance, as it empowers employees with knowledge to prevent accidents.

8. Document Compliance Efforts: Keep thorough documentation of compliance efforts and safety checks, as recommended in Clause 9. This documentation is necessary for audit readiness and demonstrates a commitment to safety standards, ensuring transparency with regulatory bodies.

Audit preparation checklist

• Ensure accessible design for all working platforms and walkways.
• Implement slip-resistant surfaces on all access points.
• Conduct regular inspections and maintenance of access points.
• Provide clear and visible signage indicating safe access routes.
• Ensure adequate load capacity for all working platforms.
• Incorporate adjustable components in access systems.
• Train staff on safe access procedures regularly.
• Document all compliance efforts and safety checks thoroughly.

Next steps

To dive deeper into ISO 14122-2:2016 compliance, consider investing in training programs for your staff, implementing a comprehensive guide for best practices, or purchasing the standard for detailed insights.