What is EN ISO 22088:2012?

EN ISO 22088:2012 is a technical standard that provides guidelines and requirements for the safety of machinery.

Introduction

EN ISO 22088:2012, titled "Safety of Machinery - Permanent Means of Access to Machines and Industrial Plants," was published by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). This standard aims to ensure the safety of personnel working with machinery by outlining specific requirements for permanent means of access.

Scope and Objectives

The scope of EN ISO 22088:2012 encompasses various types of machinery across different industry sectors. It outlines the requirements for the design, construction, and installation of permanent means of access, including stairs, ladders, walkways, guardrails, and platforms. The objectives of this standard are to minimize the risk of accidents, injuries, and occupational hazards associated with accessing or working on machines.

Main Requirements

EN ISO 22088:2012 specifies several key requirements for permanent means of access. Firstly, it emphasizes the importance of ensuring sufficient strength and stability of access components to prevent accidents. It also defines guidelines for proper design, taking into consideration factors such as load-bearing capacity, dimensions, inclination, and handrail specifications.

Furthermore, this standard addresses the need for safe access during the installation, operation, cleaning, maintenance, and repair of machinery. It requires clear instructions and markings to guide users, along with provisions to prevent unauthorized access and potential hazards. Regular inspections and maintenance are also highlighted as essential aspects to ensure the ongoing safety of access systems.

In addition, EN ISO 22088:2012 stresses the importance of ergonomic design principles in the development of permanent means of access. It promotes user-friendly features, such as comfortable steps, adequate headroom, and appropriate grip surfaces, to enhance ease of use and reduce the risk of accidents related to human factors.

Conclusion

EN ISO 22088:2012 plays a vital role in ensuring the safety of personnel working with machinery. By providing comprehensive guidelines and requirements for permanent means of access, this standard helps minimize the risks associated with accessing and working on machines, promoting a safer working environment for all.