At the recent Machinery Directive conference in Brussels, it was announced that the withdrawal of EN 954-1 was to be delayed. Although the period of the extension wasn’t confirmed, it is likely to be for 3 years. "The delay is welcome", said Paul Laidler, Managing Director of Laidler Associates, "but it shouldn’t be seen as an excuse for complacency."

Paul continues, "In my opinion this decision will just add to the confusion surrounding the introduction of the new Machinery Directive. I broadly welcomed the previous decision to delay the replacement of EN954-1 so I hope that the extra time will give industry the chance to re-work their risk assessments to meet EN (ISO) 13849-1."

"From a machine user’s point of view, if they have concerns about EN (ISO) 13849-1 then they will simply continue to conduct PUWER (Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998) assessments to conform to EN954-1. From a manufacturers viewpoint they might well see the extension as an opportunity to rush through certification. We might see an acceleration to get machines CE and PUWER certified to EN954-1 before the new legislation is in place."

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