20.06.2025

Ready, set, go – deadline for Machinery regulation is approaching

Hannu Lindfors, Director Patents and Standards, Konecranes

This article is part of the ”Countdown for the application of the Machinery Regulation” article series, in which we publish monthly topical topics related to the new Machinery Regulation and related standardization.

Preparing for the New Machinery Regulation

The European Union’s new Machinery Regulation is a significant update to the 2006 Machinery Directive. This Regulation introduces several formal and procedural changes, while also addressing emerging technologies and their associated risks.

Getting Started

Initial reactions to regulatory changes may include confusion or concern regarding their implications. It is important to note that there is no need to completely overhaul existing practices; the foundation established to meet the current Machinery Directive requirements remains robust and can be built upon. The next step involves carefully examining the Regulation to identify the crucial changes.

There are numerous free and paid events available that provide an overview of the Regulation. However, these general forums may not cover all essential details for all manufacturers. Various industry associations and similar organizations are also preparing guidance materials and comparative analyses, which might offer more specific insights than the generic reviews. Ultimately, manufacturers must take responsibility for compliance by thoroughly understanding the Regulation.

Demonstrating Compliance

Understanding the implications of the Regulation and preparing accordingly is vital. Compliance with the Machinery Regulation can be achieved by utilizing harmonized standards. However, currently, there are no harmonized standards specific to the Machinery Regulation, and many detailed product-specific standards may not be available until just before the Regulation comes into full effect in January 2027, or even later. How should manufacturers handle this situation? The Application Guide for Machinery Regulation could be beneficial, but it is not yet available. Some essential sections of the Guide related to significant changes might be published in late 2025 or early 2026. Thus, relying solely on the forthcoming guide is not advisable.

Machinery manufacturers, particularly those in project-based businesses, will face scheduling challenges as they have projects and customized machinery deliveries planned for 2027 and 2028 that must comply with the new regulation. This issue also affects series products, requiring manufacturers to adapt their supply chain and components to avoid obsolete inventory during the transition. Clear interpretations of the Regulation are necessary for effective adaptation.

How to Clear the Fog and Be Prepared?

In addition to the official Regulation, guides, and standards, there are various methods to prepare and find the right direction — or at least avoid drifting too far apart. At Konecranes, the approach is proactive: we actively monitor the development of future legislation and related lower-level regulatory guidance, and we even contribute to this process. This involvement provides valuable insights and helps us navigate the correct path while ensuring that future regulations align with industry needs. Participation occurs for example through national and international industry associations and standardization organizations.

Amidst the plethora of regulatory activities worldwide, prioritizing actions and focusing on the most relevant topics is crucial. The closer a regulatory activity is to the company’s operations, the greater the importance of engagement. For Konecranes, being prepared for the Machinery Regulation is imperative. One of the keys to success is defining the state of the art via European harmonized standards, achieved through the European crane standardization committee CEN/TC 147. Konecranes is committed in driving these standardization efforts by chairing  CEN/TC 147 and multiple of its workgroups and as well leading several projects.

In conclusion: Stay informed about key upcoming changes. Understand their implications and engage early to influence the regulatory landscape effectively.

If you are interested in joining CEN/TC 147 you need to join the national crane standardization group SR 147 first. To get more information on this contact the METSTAs expert dr. Frans Nilsén and check out our ”Osallistu” webpage.