What changes with the new Machinery Regulation?

New rules for machines will apply from January 2027. The most important point: If you have your machine change significantly , you need a new CE marking . There are also clear guidelines for machines with digital technology, AI or autonomy – and the whole thing applies without transition period .

What exactly does “significant change” mean?

As soon as you have a machine modified in such a way that it no longer corresponds to the original in terms of technology or safety, it is considered "new." Then you need a new one. Conformity testing – and without CE nothing will work from 2027 onwards.

What is the new Machinery Regulation?

This is the new EU law for machinery, valid from January 20, 2027 It replaces the old directive and makes the rules more binding – for all machines with motor, control or technology sold or used anywhere in Europe.

When does the new EU Machinery Regulation apply?

The deadline is January 20, 2027. From then on, it applies to all new machines – regardless of whether you build them yourself or import them from abroad. no transition period .

What is the risk assessment according to the Machinery Regulation?

You must carefully check and document what dangers connected to the machine – from commissioning to subsequent software updates. For modifications, you may need a new CE conformity .

Who does the Machinery Regulation apply to?

For everyone who works with machines: Manufacturer that sell new or rebuilt machines Traders and importers , pass on the machines CE inspector that certify conformity In short: If you have a machine sell, import or convert , are you in.

Are there transition periods for the new Machinery Regulation?

No. From the January 20, 2027 only the new regulation applies. Old machines that are subsequently placed on the market without a new CE mark may no longer be sold or reused .

What requirements does the new EU Machinery Regulation place on the cybersecurity of machines and products?

If your machine networked or remotely controlled , you need a Proof of security against hackers & co. Cyber risks must be addressed in the risk analysis—otherwise, the CE assessment is incomplete.

Machinery Regulation 2027: What will change for you

Summary

Away2027the newEU Machinery Regulation (EU) 2023/1230, which completely replaces old security guidelines. It provides clear rules fordigital and AI-supported machines, stricterErgonomic requirementsand defines when a machine after conversion is considered“significantly changed”applies – then you need anew CE markingFor operators, dealers and landlords this means:all new machines must comply with the new standards from January 20, 2027, There are no transition periods.

SinceQ1 2025is the revisedEN 1493for vehicle lifting platforms. New are theLoad rectanglefor more stability, extendedTest specificationsand the possibilitydigital operating instructionsIn parallel, theISO 3691and theVDI guidelines 2199 E / 4482also the specifications forForklifts and industrial truckstightened. Those who check and adjust their machines in a timely manner are on the safe side.

Things are getting serious starting in January 2027 : The EU Machinery Regulation (EU) 2023/1230 will come into force – without a transition period. The new EN 1493 standard for vehicle lifts will also apply starting in Q1 2025. This guide shows you what the changes are, who is affected – and how you can best prepare.

Machinery Regulation (EU) 2023/1230 – valid from 20 January 2027

EU Regulation 2023/1230 was published in the Official Journal of the EU (L 165/1 of 29 June 2023) and replaces Directive 2006/42/EC. It will apply from 20 January 2027 .

What's new?

The term “significant change” has been clarified: If, for example, an assistance system is retrofitted, this can trigger a new CE marking requirement .
Stronger regulation of digital and AI-supported machines – including documentation requirements for autonomous controls.
Ergonomics requirements require manufacturers to assess physical and psychological stress.
New definitions for high-risk machinery – including certain work platforms and driverless systems.

From 2027 onwards, no new machinery may be placed on the market without valid conformity under this regulation.

EN 1493 – new standard for vehicle lifts (from Q1 2025)

The revised DIN EN 1493:2025 is scheduled to be published in the first quarter of 2025. It covers, among other things, workshop platforms, test platforms, and vehicle-supporting lifting systems.

Relevant innovations

Reintroduction of the load rectangle – particularly important for two-post lifts for cars and vans.
Persons may be present in the vehicle during testing and diagnostic phases – e.g., during a general inspection by experts.
Digital operating instructions are permitted if they are permanently available (e.g. in the customer portal or via QR code access).
Additional test requirements for lateral play, arm extension and tilt angle .

ISO 3691 – new requirements for industrial trucks

ISO 3691‑1 – General requirements (draft July 2025)

The draft ISO/DIS 3691-1:2025, published in July 2025, introduces new requirements for industrial trucks with a driver seat or stand.

Controlled travel and lowering speeds for different load and danger areas.
CNG drives fully standardized for the first time.
Enclosures must meet minimum requirements for visibility, ventilation and safety.

ISO 3691‑4 – Driverless systems (valid from June 2023)

Definition of “active detection field” for AGVs & AMRs.
Standardized stop functions in case of obstacles or failure.
Guidelines for the protection of passengers, pedestrians and temperature zones .

Practical example: How a manufacturer adapts

A leading manufacturer of order-picking forklifts has already prepared its entire product range for the new Machinery Regulation by 2025:

The control panels were replaced by modules with dynamic risk assessment.
Ergonomic studies were directly incorporated into the driver’s cab development.
The CE marking was proactively reissued for all models – with full documentation according to EU 2023/1230.

The result: no sales disruption, fewer recalls, and clean auditability by authorities and customers.

Checklist: What is changing – and when?

Old rule: Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC – valid until 19.01.2027
New rule: Machinery Regulation (EU) 2023/1230 – valid from 20 January 2027
Old: EN 1493:2010 – valid until Q1 2025
New: DIN EN 1493:2025 – valid from publication (Q1 2025)
VDI 2199 E & 4482: Draft since Sept 2025, objection period until 28.02.2026
DGUV Regulation 2: new version from 2025 (BG BAU from 2027)

Your next steps – with BIBERGER

The new regulations affect everyone who operates, inspects, or rents out aerial work platforms or industrial trucks. Therefore, it's worthwhile to update your know-how and processes now .

Secure your training now: SYSTEM-CARD & safety seminars
Suppliers & dealers: Can they provide digital operating instructions permanently?

With BIBERGER , you stay up to date – ready for use and economically efficient.

Sources

About the author

Benjamin Biberger

Managing Director

Benjamin is the founder and managing director of BIBERGER Arbeitsbühnen & Forklifts.

He is responsible for thecommercial and administrative areasof the company and, together with his team, ensures theOptimization of operational processesand theoptimal customer supportin their projects.

Through his many years of experience in the areas of organization andProject managementIt provides a stable foundation – in its own daily business, in sustainableFurther development of processesas well as in theCollaboration with partners and customers.

0 comments

- Oct 20, 2025
Top 10 work platforms 2025/2026 – Our recommendations from rental practice
- Oct 23, 2025
Pendulum axles simply explained: Function, safety and maintenance for platforms and forklifts

Our editorial quality standards

The subject content on biberger.de are editorially created, reviewed, and continuously updated. The basis is our daily work with aerial platforms, telehandlers, and industrial trucks – in rental, sales, operational planning, and technical support.

Each article draws on real-world experience and is editorially reviewed for clarity, accuracy, and practical relevance according to expert criteria. Technical statements are regularly compared against current industry standards and best practices.

The aim of our publications is to make reliable specialist knowledge accessible and to offer guidance to users, decision-makers and industry partners. BIBERGER sees itself as an independent information platform for safe, economical and modern height access technology – well-founded, comprehensible and free from advertising influence.

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.

Name

Message

This site is protected by hCaptcha and the hCaptcha Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.