Risk assessment
A machine is assessed to identify potential risks or hazards. Each one is then assessed with regard to the severity of the injury, the frequency of exposure to the hazard and the possibility of avoiding the hazard. Risk assessments should be undertaken by machinery manufacturers/importers and the end users. They should be considered for all aspects of use, throughout the full lifecycle of the machine from design to disposal. Our expertise lies within the functional element of this process and we can assist customers with the production of the risk assessment.
Risk reduction
Having undertaken a risk assessment and defined and quantified the hazards, the next step is to determine how these risks can be reduced. We will generate a formal report recommending required actions and documenting how the specific risk would be reduced or removed by taking those required actions. The list of works can then be actioned by the client or, on request, we will submit a separate quotation to supply the necessary equipment and skills.
Technical files
For new machinery or where existing machinery is upgraded, comprehensive information is required covering the design, construction, conformity assessment and use of the product to demonstrate how it complies with all applicable directives. This document is known as a technical file.
When we are engaged to CE mark existing equipment we will construct the technical file. We will typically request any information that is available for the machine including electrical schematics, fluid power circuits and operating instructions.
Validation
Risk reduction activities are identified and recommended as part of the risk assessment and follow up report. Once these have been undertaken it is necessary to validate the works. The validation is required to confirm the conformity of the design of the safety related parts of the control system and to demonstrate that each safety related part meets the requirements of the EU Standards.
CE marking certification
We will issue a formal CE certificate and a CE plate once all of the risk reduction works have been undertaken and validated, and a technical file has been assembled.