Machines differ from tools in that they are not driven by means of sheer muscular force but by means of external energy (i.e. electricity). Machines put on the market after January 1, 1995 are covered by the Machinery Safety Regulation (Maschinen-Sicherheitsverordnung, MSV) and have to bear the CE marking. Since 2010, new machines have to be designed and manufactured in accordance with the provisions of the Machinery Safety Regulation of 2010. Machinery manufactured by a company for its own use have to comply with the provisions of the Machinery Safety Regulation and the Machinery Safety Regulation of 2010. With regard to labour protection, machines are governed by the provisions of Part Three of the Labour Protection Act (ArbeitnehmerInnenschutzgesetz, ASchG) and the Regulation relating to Work Equipment (Arbeitsmittelverordnung, AM-VO). When machines are used, in particular the following general aspects have to be taken into consideration:
See also: Work Equipment, Operating Instructions, Electric Equipment, Compliance with the Machinery Regulation, Electric Hand Tools, Hand-guided Machines, Information, Marking, Shutting down.
- Suitable work equipment that corresponds to the manufacturer’s instructions has to be provided to workers.
- Machines must be set up and used correctly in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Protective equipment of machines as well as the required personal protective equipment has to be consistently used or worn.
- It has to be ensured that testing and trial runs, checks, service and maintenance are carried out correctly and in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Defective machines have to be withdrawn or repaired without delay.
See also: Work Equipment, Operating Instructions, Electric Equipment, Compliance with the Machinery Regulation, Electric Hand Tools, Hand-guided Machines, Information, Marking, Shutting down.