ISO 13857:2019 Safety Requirements Explained

ISO 13857:2019 safety requirementsISO 13857:2019 compliance standardsISO 13857:2019 compliance guidelines

Purpose and objectives

The SN EN ISO 13857:2020 standard is designed to establish safety distances aimed at preventing access to hazardous zones by upper and lower limbs in machinery. It provides guidelines and requirements essential for ensuring the safety of operators and bystanders during machinery operation. By outlining the necessary safety distances, the standard aims to mitigate risks associated with mechanical hazards, thereby enhancing workplace safety and compliance with existing regulations.

Scope: who must comply

This standard applies primarily to manufacturers and designers of machinery across various industries, including manufacturing, construction, and automotive sectors. It is crucial for organizations that implement machinery that poses a risk of limb injuries. Compliance is essential in the Environment, Health & Safety context, as it helps organizations prevent accidents and injuries related to hazardous machinery operations. Companies of all sizes, from small enterprises to large industrial firms, must adhere to these safety requirements to ensure safe interaction between personnel and machinery.

How SN EN ISO 13857:2020 relates to other standards

SN EN ISO 13857:2020 works in conjunction with several related standards:

  • ISO 14120:2015 focuses on general requirements for the design and construction of fixed and movable guards, complementing the safety distance guidelines.
  • ISO 12100:2010 provides general principles for the design of safety-related machinery systems, offering a broader framework within which ISO 13857 operates.
  • ISO 14119:2013 addresses interlocking devices associated with guards, reinforcing the measures to prevent access to hazardous zones.

Revision history and current status

The SN EN ISO 13857:2020 standard was published by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and represents the latest revision of the standard originally established in 2019. The most recent changes emphasize stricter guidelines on safety distances to enhance operator safety and reduce the risk of limb injuries. This update reflects ongoing advancements in safety technology and an increased understanding of human factors in machinery operation.

Last updated: April 15, 2026