Compliance with minimum and essential requirements
Adapting machines to meet the minimum and essential requirements is a key obligation for every employer operating technical equipment in the workplace. The Bros Control team includes engineers who hold the CMSE® – Certified Machinery Safety Expert (TÜV Nord) qualification. Thanks to their expertise, we support our clients throughout the entire process – from safety audits and risk assessments to implementing the necessary modifications and providing legally compliant documentation.
What are minimum and essential requirements?
- Minimum requirements – apply to machines manufactured before 2004 that are still in use by the employer. These are defined in the Regulation of the Minister of Economy dated 30 October 2002 (PL).
- Essential requirements – apply to new, modernised, or reintroduced machines, and are specified in the Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC as well as in national regulations.
How does the compliance process work?
- Technical audits and assessment of the machine’s safety condition.
- Risk analysis in accordance with PN-EN ISO 12100.
- Comparison of the current state with minimum or essential requirements.
- Development of a corrective action plan.
- Design and implementation of machine modifications, including:
- installation of safety guards, sensors, and emergency stop devices,
- modernisation of control and automation systems.
- Verification of the implemented changes.
- Preparation of complete documentation:
- operation and maintenance manuals,
- conformity assessment and CE declaration (in the case of essential requirements),
- final acceptance report.
What are the benefits?
- compliance with applicable legal regulations,
- a safe working environment,
- preparedness for inspections by the Labour Inspectorate, Office of Technical Inspection, and Health and Safety authorities,
- protection from criminal and civil liability,
- continued use of older machines without the need for replacement.
Compliance with minimum and essential requirements is not only a legal obligation but also an investment in safety, quality, and the stability of the production process. The Bros Control team offers you expertise, experience, and an effective approach to delivering this task.