Following best practices is crucial for ensuring compliance with SN EN ISO 14120:2016 safety standards, ultimately enhancing safety and audit readiness in machinery operations.

Best practices at a glance

This section introduces a checklist of best practices derived from SN EN ISO 14120:2016. These practices encompass design and construction requirements for fixed and movable guards, focusing on minimizing mechanical hazards and ensuring compliance with applicable safety regulations.

The practices

1. Evaluate mechanical hazards thoroughly: Conduct a comprehensive risk assessment to identify all mechanical hazards associated with machinery. This is vital because unaddressed hazards can lead to accidents, injuries, and non-compliance with Section 4.2 of SN EN ISO 14120:2016.

2. Design guards to prevent access: Ensure that guards are designed in such a way that they effectively prevent access to hazardous areas. This practice aligns with Clause 5.2, emphasizing the importance of guard placement and design in mitigating risks.

3. Use durable materials for construction: Construct guards using materials that are capable of withstanding the operational environment. This is crucial for maintaining safety over time and is referenced in Section 7.1 of SN EN ISO 14120:2016, which discusses the durability and reliability of safety components.

4. Implement clear labeling and instructions: Clearly label guards and provide operational instructions to users. This is essential for ensuring that operators understand the purpose of guards and how to use machinery safely. This requirement is outlined in Clause 7.4, which focuses on user information and safety signs.

5. Regularly inspect and maintain guards: Establish a routine inspection and maintenance schedule for all guards to ensure they remain effective. This practice helps prevent mechanical failures and is recommended in Section 8.3, which covers maintenance of safety devices.

6. Exclude locking devices from safety guards: Ensure that locking devices are not integrated into safety guards, as defined in Clause 6.5. This is important to avoid creating false security and to maintain compliance with ISO 14119 requirements.

7. Review compliance with the EU Directive 2006/42/CE: Regularly assess machinery against the EU Directive 2006/42/CE to confirm that all safety standards are being met. This compliance check is crucial for legal adherence and is highlighted in the relationship with SN EN ISO 14120:2016.

8. Stay updated on related ISO standards: Keep abreast of updates to ISO standards, particularly ISO 14119, to ensure ongoing compliance and safety. This practice encourages continuous improvement in safety measures and is important for the overall effectiveness of risk management strategies.

Audit preparation checklist

• Evaluate mechanical hazards thoroughly
• Design guards to prevent access
• Use durable materials for construction
• Implement clear labeling and instructions
• Regularly inspect and maintain guards
• Exclude locking devices from safety guards
• Review compliance with the EU Directive 2006/42/CE
• Stay updated on related ISO standards

Next steps

To further ensure compliance with ISO 14120:2015 safety standards, consider implementing training programs for staff, utilizing implementation guides for best practices, and purchasing the official standard for detailed reference.