Using work equipment and machines safely
From drills to forklifts, every company uses work equipment. And that always involves risks. Examples include dangerous moving parts, electricity and fall hazards. To be able to work safely, you need a well-thought-out policy on work equipment and machine safety.
What is work equipment?
Work equipment refers to all machines, devices, tools and installations used in the workplace. That can vary from simple hand tools to elaborate production lines. Each type of equipment carries its own risks, making safe use and compliance essential. A well-thought-out work equipment policy also addresses requirements such as training, maintenance and the use of personal protective equipment.
Want to develop a sustainable prevention policy for work equipment?
An IDEWE support contract will help you build a strong safety culture. Your assigned prevention advisor is your point of contact for all matters relating to occupational safety. Their advice is proactive, trusted and always tailored to your organisation.
What are the legal obligations regarding work equipment?
The Codex on Wellbeing at Work describes the minimum safety requirements in Book IV – Minimum Safety Requirements for the Use of Work Equipment. As an employer, your obligations include:
• Checking your work equipment for conformity
• Taking measures to ensure your equipment’s continued compliance
• Fulfilling requirements such as training, PPE and maintenance
• Having certain types of electrical work equipment inspected regularly by an approved body
In addition to the national regulations, there are also clear European requirements. A new European Machinery Regulation will go fully into effect at the beginning of 2027. It replaces the existing Machinery Directive and addresses risks due to new technologies such as AI and collaborative robots (cobots). The Regulation will be both broader and more consistent in its scope. As an employer, you need to start preparing now, especially if you design or modify machines yourself. Our experts are sure to be able to provide guidance.
How do you use machines safely?
Want to sustainably address the safe use of work equipment at your organisation? Follow these steps:
- Make an inventory of all your work equipment.
- Develop a purchasing policy. Most of all: only allow safe work equipment into your organisation.
- Do a conformity check of your work equipment to be sure it meets the minimum safety requirements.
- Draw up safety instructions. Supplement them with training so your employees are familiar with the equipment.
- Take care when commissioning new machines. Don’t forget to complete the commissioning report.
- Keep your machines in good shape. That includes a maintenance plan, regular cleaning, calibration and, if required, inspections by accredited bodies.
In addition, it is at least equally important to ensure that your employees know how to handle work equipment safely. Use these tips to encourage the right habits:
- Encourage your employees to always wear appropriate personal protective equipment.
- Ensure that your employees receive sufficient training and instructions before they start using any work equipment. The LoToTo procedure is one example. Training on the safe use of forklifts is another.
- Make it a habit to clean your machines regularly and repair any defects immediately. This prevents accidents and loss of productivity.
What is the LoToTo procedure?
LoToTo is an essential safety procedure when doing machine maintenance or repair work. The procedure consists of three successive steps:
- Lock out: neutralise and lock out all energy sources, such as electricity, hydraulics or compressed air
- Tag out: provide clear information on the work to be carried out and its duration
- Try out: actively check that the machine is truly de-energised and cannot be restarted
This procedure requires discipline and clear agreements. The more complex the machine, the more important it is to have a machine-specific lockout procedure written out.
How should you prepare for inspection visits?
Employee wellbeing inspectors usually arrive unannounced. Our prevention advisors will do a pre-audit to check whether your organisation is in compliance with legislation. If anything needs addressing, we will define an action plan together. This avoids unpleasant surprises and increases safety on the work floor.