ISO 13850:2015 Certification Process Explained

ISO 13850:2015 certification processISO 13850:2015 standard overviewISO 13850:2015 standard

The SN EN ISO 13850:2016 standard outlines essential principles for designing emergency stop functions in machinery, published by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). This standard applies to various types of machinery across multiple energy sources, ensuring safety and compliance in the industrial sector.

Purpose and objectives

The primary objective of the ISO 13850:2015 certification process is to establish functional requirements and design principles for emergency stop functions in machinery. This standard aims to enhance the safety of machinery operators and reduce the risk of accidents. By providing clear design guidelines, the standard ensures that emergency stop mechanisms are effective and reliable, promoting a safer working environment across diverse industries. Furthermore, adherence to these standards helps organizations avoid potential legal liabilities and fosters a culture of safety.

Scope: who must comply

The ISO 13850:2015 standard applies to manufacturers and designers of machinery across various industries, including manufacturing, construction, and automation. Organizations that produce equipment utilizing mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, or pneumatic energy sources must comply with this standard to ensure the safety of their machinery and operators. In the context of Environment, Health & Safety (EHS), compliance with ISO 13850:2015 is crucial, as it not only enhances operational safety but also aligns with regulatory requirements in many jurisdictions.

How SN EN ISO 13850:2016 relates to other standards

The ISO 13850:2015 standard is closely related to several other important standards:

  • IEC 60204-1: This standard focuses on the electrical safety of machinery, providing guidelines that complement the emergency stop requirements outlined in ISO 13850.
  • EN ISO 13850:2008: The previous version of this standard, which laid the groundwork for the 2016 revision, is essential for understanding the evolution of emergency stop requirements.
  • Directive 2006/42/CE: This EU directive establishes essential health and safety requirements for machinery, aligning with the goals of ISO 13850.

Revision history and current status

The ISO 13850:2015 standard was published by ISO and reflects the latest advancements in safety technology and practices. The most recent revision in 2015 introduced updates to the functional requirements and design principles for emergency stop functions, enhancing clarity and applicability across different machinery types. This revision builds upon prior editions, such as EN ISO 13850:2008, and incorporates feedback from industry stakeholders to ensure the standard remains relevant in today’s machinery landscape.

Last updated: April 15, 2026