Working platforms for machine-tools

What are the requirements for work platforms for machines?

Every equipment used in the workplace should meet the requirements of the above-mentioned provisions and current standards. It is also worth noting that machines and other technical devices should meet the requirements of occupational health and safety throughout their lifetime. This necessitates the use of work accessories that meet the health and safety requirements and current standards.

Workshop platforms should also have the following properties:
• be stable
• be resistant to the payload that occurs at a given workplace
• should protect against slipping and tripping
• be easy to keep clean

What standards should be met by such platforms ?

The requirements for work platforms for machines are covered by three standards harmonized with the Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC. It is also worth noting that these are harmonized standards regarding the selection and application of technical security measures (protection devices) type B2. Requirements relating to safety aspects in the work environment and the use of protective devices are universal, which means that they refer to both new and old machines. This means that these standards are also somewhat harmonized with the tools directive 2009/104/EC. It is therefore necessary to take into account the requirements of these standards for all machines, regardless of their age.

• Standard No.: EN ISO 14122-1:2016-08 Title of the standard: Safety of machinery - Permanent means of access to machinery - Part 1: Choise of fixed means and general requirements of access
• Standard No: EN ISO 14122-2:2016-08 Title of the standard: Safety of machinery - Permanent means of access to machinery - Part 2: Working platforms and walkways
• Standard No.: EN ISO 14122-3:2016-08 Title of the standard: Safety of machinery - Permanent means of access to machinery - Part 3: Stairs, stepladder stairs and guard-rails.

The multi-part standard EN ISO 14122 [1,2,3] applies in its entirety to both stationary and mobile machines, when permanent means of access are required.

The first of the standards speaks of general requirements related to access to stationary machines. It also defines guidelines for the correct selection of access means if the necessary access to the stationary machine directly from ground level or from the floor is not possible. The standard also presents minimum requirements, which also apply when the same access means are necessary (eg working platforms, passages, ladders), which are also part of the building or building structure in which the machine is installed.

In the second of the standards, detailed requirements are given for non-mechanical working platforms and transitions that are part of the stationary machine. The definitions of such elements as:

• "work platform" is a horizontal surface used for servicing, maintenance, checking, repair, etc. of work related to machines
• "slip-resistant surface" floor surface ensuring good adhesion of footwear

The standard also indicates methods for determining slip resistance levels. The standard also defines the requirements for working platforms and transitions. In addition, if there are no applicable local laws or local standards, the standard may be applied to access measures not falling within the scope of this standard.