Transition to the EU Machinery Regulation: Preparing for 2027 Compliance
What is the Machinery Directive?
The Machinery Directive (2006/42/EC) has long underpinned machinery safety across Europe, but change is imminent. On 20 January 2027, it will be repealed and replaced by Regulation (EU) 2023/1230, a directly applicable law across all EU member states and no national implementation required.
Why it's important
The updated Regulation reflects new and emerging risks brought about by evolving technologies like artificial intelligence, robotics, and the Internet of Things (IoT). It’s about future-proofing safety while ensuring consistent compliance across the internal market.
What you need to know
Until the transition ends in 2027, both the Machinery Directive and the new Regulation can be used. However, the Regulation is already in force and mandatory compliance is coming fast. Now is the time to:
- Understand the key changes
- Update internal practices and documentation
- Engage with the evolving guidance through the current Application Guide, which can still be amended and clarified
Who Is Affected?
The new Regulation applies to:
- Machinery (complete or partial) – e.g. cranes
- Safety components
- Removable mechanical transmission devices
- Lifting accessories – chains, ropes, slings, and more
Join the Special Interest Group
To support members, we’re launching Special Interest Groups that allow you to help steer guidance, interpretation, and best practice. You can select more than one group.
These groups cover:
- Group A – Review of existing guidance and the New Legislative Framework
- Group B – AI safety functions and software as components
- Group C – Autonomous machinery, contact risk with powerlines, seating safety
- Group D – Cybersecurity
- Group E – Digital manuals and safety information
Engineers, manufacturers, importers, and assemblers are especially encouraged to register their interest.
Be Part of the Discussion
By getting involved, you’ll be invited to dedicated workshops and events to share your views.
Register your interest to participate by completing this form.
Explore the full Regulation at the European Commission website https://ec.europa.eu/docsroom/documents/38022
Let’s embrace this transition early and ensure our sector continues to lead on safety, innovation, and compliance.
