Power Press Machines: High Risk Without Safety, High Output with It

Why the Machinery Directive proves that safety and productivity go hand in hand

Power press machines are among the most productive assets in manufac-turing-but they are also among the most dangerous when operated without proper safeguards. History shows that many serious industrial accidents are linked to power presses due to their high force, rapid motion, and close human interaction.

The EU Machinery Directive (2006/42/EC) addresses this reality directly, making it clear that productivity cannot come at the cost of operator safety.

In the context of the upcoming Machinery Regulation (EU) 2023/1230, which will replace the Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC, this principle is further reinforced, emphasizing that safety must be integrated into the design from the outset and is therefore a fundamental prerequisite for efficient, high-performance, and future-proof production systems.

Why Power Press Machines Are High-Risk
Power presses involve operations such as cutting, forming, punching, and bending, all of which expose operators to hazards…
Safety Is Not a Constraint-It’s a Performance Enabler
The Machinery Directive reinforces an important principle:
A machine that is unsafe is ultimately unproductive.
Power press machines operated without proper safeguards may appear efficient in the short term, but they expose organizations to severe human, legal, and financial consequences. In contrast, machines designed and operated in line with the Directive create safer workplaces, stronger compliance, and long-term operational excellence.
Power press machines are undeniably risky—but risk is manageable. When manufacturers and employers treat the Machinery Directive as a foundation rather than a formality, safety becomes the key enabler of high output, reliability, and trust on the shop floor.
Safety doesn’t reduce productivity.
It protects it.

Web : www.schmersal.com