Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC

The Machinery Directive covers the manufacturing of machinery that is sold or put into use within the European Economic Area (EEA).

The directive covers a wide range of machinery defined as: "an assembly of linked parts or components, at least one of which moves, with the appropriate actuators, control and power circuits, etc. joined together for a specific application, in particular for the processing, treatment, moving or packaging of a material."

It also covers an assembly of machines, interchangeable equipment modifying the function of a machine, and 'safety components'.

The directive defines 'Machinery' as:

• an assembly, fitted with or intended to be fitted with a drive system other than directly applied human or animal effort, consisting of linked parts or components, at least one of which moves, and which are joined together for a specific application,
• an assembly referred to in the first indent, missing only the components to connect it on site or to sources of energy and motion,
• an assembly referred to in the first and second indents, ready to be installed and able to function as it stands only if mounted on a means of transport, or installed in a building or a structure,
• assemblies of machinery referred to in the first, second and third indents or partly completed machinery which, in order to achieve the same end, are arranged and controlled so that they function as an integral whole,
• an assembly of linked parts or components, at least one of which moves and which are joined together, intended for lifting loads and whose only power source is directly applied human effort

The Machinery Directive applies to the following products:

• Interchangeable equipment
• Safety components
• LIfting accessories
• Chains, ropes, and webbing
• Removable mechanical transmission devices
• Partly completed machinery

LRQA  is a Notified Body for the Machinery Directive which enables us to carry out all work associated with the approval of Annex IV machinery, including:

• reviewing a technical construction file
• EC Certificate of Adequacy
• EC Type Examination (Module B)
• EC Quality Assurance (Module H)

LRQA is also a competent body and we can assist the manufacturer with self-certification for non-Annex IV machinery.

We can help manufacturers in several ways, including:

1. reviewing a technical construction file for compliance
2. reviewing applicable essential health & safety requirements
3. reviewing stated compliance with the essential health & safety requirements
4. review of the instruction manual
5. reviewing compliance with specific EN standards
6. inspecting and testing of the machinery.

Globally recognised and accredited

By choosing LRQA, you'll be working with an organisation that has the pedigree and proven capabilities to inspect your equipment against the Machinery Directive's requirements.

Technical expertise

LRQA's technical experts can provide first-hand insights into the requirements of the Machinery Directive and the logic behind them. Our surveyors are chosen for their sector-specific knowledge and expertise, which means you can be confident that they'll understand the manufacturing challenges you face.

Our expert assessment teams take a collaborative approach that understands the importance of a fast, efficient appraisal with minimal disruption to your business. Using an industry-leading methodology, our design appraisal engineers, inspection personnel and quality system auditors can help you prepare for certification, perform equipment reviews, and provide training for your staff and stakeholders on the Machinery Directive.