The 56th Meeting of the CNB-MA Horizontal Committee addressed several important issues related to the new Machinery Regulation. Discussions were held on the transition process, the role of notified bodies, the validity of EC type examination certificates, and the approval and withdrawal of Recommendations for Use (RFUs).
Main Discussions and Decisions
1. Use of Harmonized Standards for the Machine Regulation
• Discussions were held on the applicability of existing Machine Directive standards for certification under the new Machine Regulation. The publication of the new list of harmonized standards by summer 2026 was targeted. Concerns were raised regarding how standards would be applied during the transition period.
2. Validity of EC Type Examination Certificates
• The validity of EC type examination certificates under the new Machinery Regulation was a key topic of discussion. The Committee discussed the legal status of EC Type Examination Certificates issued under the Directive once the new Machinery Regulation becomes fully applicable. The main question was whether these certificates would remain valid after 2027, when the new regulation becomes fully applicable.
3. Recommendations for Use (RFUs)
• Several RFUs were reviewed during the meeting. Notable RFUs included those related to mechanical presses, waste collection vehicles, and machines with evolving behavior. Following the discussions, decisions were made to approve, amend, or withdraw certain RFUs.
4. Digital User Instructions
• The possibility of adopting digital formats for usage instructions under the new machine regulation was raised. Considering that the regulation will only be implemented starting in 2027, cost advantages for the industry were acknowledged, while legal and practical challenges were also noted.
5. Next Meeting and Additional Sessions
• The committee discussed the timing of the next meeting and the possibility of holding an additional meeting before May. Logistical and contractual aspects related to organizing these meetings were also addressed.
6. Cybersecurity, Artificial Intelligence, and the Machinery Regulation
• The relevance of cybersecurity and artificial intelligence to the new machine regulation was discussed. The Committee acknowledged the need for new guidance documents to support the implementation of the regulation in these areas.
Conclusion
The 56th Meeting of the CNB-MA Horizontal Committee was critical in addressing the transition process to the new machine regulation. The committee’s discussions emphasized the need for clear communication, effective implementation strategies, and greater clarity on various critical points. The meeting laid the groundwork for further discussions and decisions to ensure a smooth transition to the new regulatory framework.
