Purpose and objectives

The SN EN ISO 13855:2025 standard outlines essential safety requirements for the positioning of safeguards concerning the approach of the human body to hazards in machinery. It aims to ensure that protective devices are appropriately placed to minimize the risk of injury, thereby enhancing workplace safety. By establishing clear guidelines for safety distances and device arrangements, this standard helps organizations comply with regulatory requirements and fosters a safer working environment.

Scope: who must comply

ISO 13855:2024 compliance is critical for manufacturers, equipment designers, safety engineers, and occupational health and safety professionals across various industries, including manufacturing, construction, and robotics. Any organization that designs, manufactures, or utilizes machinery with potential hazards must adhere to these standards, particularly those concerning the arrangement and dimensions of protective devices. Compliance with ISO 13855:2024 is part of broader Environment, Health & Safety (EHS) initiatives aimed at reducing workplace accidents and ensuring employee safety.

How SN EN ISO 13855:2025 relates to other standards

SN EN ISO 13855:2025 aligns with several other important safety standards, including:

• IEC 61496: This standard focuses on the performance requirements for active opto-electronic protective devices (AOPD), which are integral to safeguarding against machine hazards.
• ISO 13856: It addresses the requirements of pressure-sensitive protective devices, complementing the positioning guidelines in ISO 13855.
• ISO 14120: This standard provides requirements for the design and construction of fixed and movable guards, ensuring that protective measures are robust and effective.

Revision history and current status

Published by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) in 2025, SN EN ISO 13855 is the latest revision of the standard. The 2025 version includes several key updates aimed at enhancing clarity regarding safety distances and the placement of protective devices. It reflects advancements in technology and industry practices, ensuring that the standard remains relevant and effective in promoting machinery safety.