The Machinery Directive is Replaced by the Machinery Regulation

When the Machinery Regulation (EU) 2023/1230 replaces the existing Machinery Directive (2006/42/EC), the rules of engagement change for machinery manufacturers, importers, and advisors across the EU.

Here are the most important facts and changes you need to know:

Date of Application

January 20, 2027, is the official date on which the Machinery Regulation applies in full, and the Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC is simultaneously repealed.

Regulation vs. Directive

A regulation is directly applicable as binding law in all EU Member States without the need for national implementation. A directive, by contrast, must be transposed into national legislation (such as national executive orders).

Update of Harmonised Standards‍

Harmonised standards such as DS/EN ISO 12100 (risk assessment) and DS/EN ISO 20607 (instruction handbooks) are continuously adapted and updated in relation to the new structure of the regulation.

New Structure and Annex Numbering

Central annexes are being reshuffled. For example, the essential health and safety requirements (formerly Annex I in the directive) are moved to Annex III in the Machinery Regulation.

New Requirements for Cybersecurity and AI

The regulation introduces specific requirements for protection against corruption and unintentional/malicious influence (Cybersecurity), as well as requirements for machinery with artificial intelligence and self-evolving systems.

What are you allowed to do before January 20, 2027?

You can (and should) already design and adapt your machinery to the new requirements in the regulation. However, you must not cite Regulation (EU) 2023/1230 on your declaration of conformity prior to the actual date of application.

Updating Declarations

All declarations of conformity must be updated. The 'EC Declaration of Conformity' is formally changed to an 'EU Declaration of Conformity'.

Transitioning technical files, risk assessments, and instruction manuals to the new regulation takes time. It is therefore recommended to begin mapping out your machinery and documentation well ahead of the deadline.

Written by: Jesper Deleuran Larsen

Last updated: 26/07/2026

_{Disclaimer
The information provided in this blog post is for general informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute, nor should it be considered, professional engineering advice or technical assistance. For specific projects or concrete machinery installations, obtaining an individual professional evaluation is always recommended. While we strive to keep the information as up-to-date as possible, always verify that all standards, executive orders, regulations, directives, etc., are the latest applicable versions.}