This article provides a concise roadmap for machine builders, highlighting key legislative frameworks, relevant standards, and common pitfalls to avoid.
Understanding the regulatory landscape
The UK's machinery safety regulations are shaped by both domestic laws and the lasting influence of EU directives. Key regulations include:
The Supply of Machinery (Safety) Regulations 2008
This legislation implemented the EU Machinery Directive into UK law. It mandates that all machinery sold or used in the UK must meet essential health and safety requirements (EHSRs). These regulations require manufacturers to conduct a conformity assessment, produce technical documentation, and affix the appropriate conformity marking.
Post-Brexit changes
Following Brexit, the UK Conformity Assessed (UKCA) marking was introduced to replace the CE marking for machinery placed on the market in Great Britain. However, there is currently a transitional arrangement allowing the continued use of the CE marking in Great Britain. For Northern Ireland, the CE marking remains applicable under the Northern Ireland Protocol, with the additional option of using the UKNI marking when necessary.
Read the full article in DPA's February 2025 issue