Machinery Regulation

The Machinery Regulation (EU) 2023/1230 represents the biggest shift in European machine safety law in over 15 years. Unlike the previous Machinery Directive, which required national implementation, this Regulation is a single, binding law applicable immediately across the entire EU. It specifically addresses modern challenges that did not exist in 2006, such as Artificial Intelligence, autonomous mobile robots, and cybersecurity risks.

For North American exporters, the most critical changes concern High-Risk Machinery and digital compliance. The Regulation explicitly integrates cybersecurity into safety, meaning your Risk Assessment must now account for external hacking threats that could alter safety functions. Additionally, it formally legalizes digital documentation, allowing you to provide instructions and the Declaration of Conformity (DoC) electronically via a QR code or website, rather than printing thousands of pages.

The transition period is currently active. Until January 20, 2027, you may continue using the Directive, but all new Technical File documentation created after this date must strictly comply with the Regulation. Failure to update your files before the deadline will render your CE Mark invalid.