Overview of SN EN ISO 13850:2016

SN EN ISO 13850:2016

Sicherheit von Maschinen - Not-Halt - Gestaltungsleitsätze (ISO 13850:2015)

Safety of machinery - Emergency stop function - Principles for design (ISO 13850:2015)

SWISSMEM

ISO 13850:2015 Standard specifies functional requirements and design principles for the emergency stop function on machinery, independent of the type of energy used. It does not deal with functions such as reversal or limitation of motion, deflection of emissions (e.g. radiation, fluids), shielding, braking or disconnecting, which can be part of the emergency stop function. The requirements for this International Standard apply to all machines, with exception to: - machines where an emergency stop would not reduce the risk; - hand-held or hand-operated machines. NOTE The requirements for the realization of the emergency stop function based on electrical/electronic technology are described in IEC 60204-1.

Publikation: 2016-03-0113 SeitenICS: 13.110
SN EN ISO 13850:2016 is an essential standard that specifies the functional requirements and design principles for emergency stop functions on machinery. This standard applies regardless of the type of energy used and is crucial for ensuring safety in various operational environments.

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What SN EN ISO 13850:2016 covers

SN EN ISO 13850:2016 outlines the fundamental principles for the design and implementation of emergency stop functions across machinery. It covers functional requirements that ensure machinery can be safely halted in emergencies, regardless of the type of energy source powering the equipment. The standard explicitly excludes certain functions from its scope, such as motion reversal, emission deflection, and braking mechanisms, which can be part of the emergency stop function but are not directly addressed. It aims to provide a comprehensive framework applicable to various machinery types, while also clarifying which machines are exempt from these requirements, particularly those where an emergency stop would not effectively reduce risk, such as hand-held tools.

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Who needs to comply with SN EN ISO 13850:2016

The SN EN ISO 13850:2016 standard is relevant to a wide range of stakeholders within the Environment, Health & Safety industry. This includes manufacturers of machinery, safety engineers, compliance officers, and maintenance personnel in sectors such as manufacturing, construction, and agriculture. Companies of all sizes, from small enterprises to large multinational corporations, must adhere to the principles outlined in this standard to ensure the safety of their equipment and personnel. Additionally, regulatory bodies and certifying organizations may use this standard to assess compliance, making it vital for businesses aiming to uphold safety and quality in their operations.

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Key requirements

  • Emergency Stop Functionality: The standard mandates that machinery must include a clearly identifiable emergency stop mechanism that can be easily accessed by operators.
  • Design Principles: Emergency stop functions should be designed to minimize risk and ensure rapid cessation of machinery operation.
  • Independence from Other Functions: The emergency stop function must operate independently of other control functions to ensure effectiveness in emergencies.
  • Visual Indicators: It requires that the emergency stop controls be marked with standardized symbols and colors for easy recognition.
  • Testing and Reliability: Regular testing and maintenance of emergency stop functions are necessary to ensure they perform reliably under emergency conditions. Typically, compliance with these requirements is audited through regular safety assessments and equipment inspections.

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How to implement SN EN ISO 13850:2016

Implementing SN EN ISO 13850:2016 involves several key steps. First, a comprehensive gap analysis should be conducted to identify current compliance levels against the standard's requirements. This is followed by the development of appropriate documentation that outlines the emergency stop function design and operational procedures. Training sessions for relevant personnel are crucial to ensure that everyone understands the emergency protocols and the functionality of the stop mechanisms. After training, an internal audit is necessary to identify any remaining compliance issues before proceeding to a certification audit, where an external party evaluates adherence to the standard. This structured approach helps organizations effectively implement the standard and enhance safety measures.

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Related standards

  • IEC 60204-1: This standard provides requirements for the electrical equipment of machines, including the realization of emergency stop functions, particularly focusing on electrical and electronic technologies.
  • ISO 12100: This standard outlines general principles for the design of machinery and risk assessment, which complements the safety measures provided by SN EN ISO 13850:2016.
  • ISO 14119: This standard addresses interlocking devices associated with guards, which may work in conjunction with emergency stop functions to enhance machine safety.
  • ISO 13849-1: This standard specifies safety-related parts of control systems, further detailing the functional safety requirements that support emergency stop mechanisms.

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Why SN EN ISO 13850:2016 matters

Adhering to SN EN ISO 13850:2016 is vital for businesses seeking to enhance safety, ensure legal compliance, and maintain a competitive edge in the marketplace. By implementing the requirements of this standard, organizations can significantly reduce the risk of accidents, thereby fostering a culture of safety and trust among employees and clients alike. Moreover, compliance can facilitate market access and enhance customer confidence in the safety of the machinery they use. For organizations looking to deepen their understanding and operationalize these standards, exploring training and purchasing options below is encouraged.

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Last updated: April 15, 2026