Safety standards and mandatory certificates for the installation of safety optoelectronic curtains

What are safety optoelectronic curtains?

Safety optoelectronic curtains are advanced protective devices that monitor an area using light rays. When the light beam is interrupted, the system immediately sends a signal that can stop the operation of the machine or production process. This is a solution used mainly in industrial plants where high precision and reliability are required.

Basic safety standards for safety optoelectronic curtains

According to European and international regulations, specific standards must be applied when designing, installing and using safety curtains. Below we present the most important of them:

1. PN-EN ISO 13849-1 – This standard specifies requirements for the safety of control systems. It covers aspects related to achieving the appropriate level of performance (Performance Level – PL).

2. PN-EN IEC 61496-1 and 61496-2 – These are standards dedicated to optoelectronic curtains, which regulate the requirements for the design, construction and testing of safety devices based on optical technology.

3. Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC – This document contains general principles for the design and installation of machines and devices, taking into account safety elements, including optoelectronic safety curtains.

The use of the above-mentioned standards guarantees that the curtains are reliable and meet rigorous requirements in the field of protecting the health and life of employees.

Mandatory certificates for safety curtains

Safety curtains must have appropriate certificates of compliance with standards. The most commonly required are:

1. CE certificate – This marking confirms the product's compliance with European Union directives, including the Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC. Without this marking, the product cannot be legally introduced to the European market.

2. TÜV certificates – Safety curtains certified by TÜV have undergone rigorous quality and safety tests. This is a mark recognized internationally as proof of compliance with the highest standards.

3. Declaration of conformity – The manufacturer or supplier of the curtain must provide a declaration confirming that the product meets the requirements specified in the applicable standards.

Failure to have the required certificates may result not only in legal penalties, but also pose a real threat to employee safety.

The process of installing safety curtains in accordance with standards

The installation of optoelectronic safety curtains must be carried out in accordance with specific guidelines. Here are the basic steps:

1. Risk analysis – Before installing the curtains, a detailed hazard analysis should be carried out and the zones requiring protection should be determined.

2. Selection of appropriate curtains – The devices must be adapted to the specifics of the production process and safety requirements.

3. Correct positioning and installation – Curtains should be installed at an appropriate distance from the source of the threat to ensure effective protection.

4. Testing and validation – After installation, functional tests should be carried out and the compliance of the installation with standards should be verified.

5. Technical documentation – All assembly activities and tests must be documented. This documentation is necessary in the case of inspection and during the use of the system.

Why are compliance with standards and certification crucial?

Compliance with safety standards and obtaining the necessary certificates is not only a legal obligation, but above all a guarantee of safety in the workplace. Incorrectly selected or uncertified curtains can lead to system failure and accidents at work. Additionally, compliance with standards and certification affect:

• Customer trust – Certified products prove high quality and reliability.

• Avoiding legal sanctions – Installation that does not comply with standards can lead to financial penalties and closure of production.

• Efficiency and productivity – Properly installed curtains increase safety and minimize production downtime.

Summary

Installation of optoelectronic safety curtains is a process that must comply with specific standards and legal regulations. Standards such as PN-EN ISO 13849-1 and PN-EN IEC 61496-1 and 61496-2 are of key importance, as well as obtaining certificates such as CE or TÜV.

Compliance with these requirements not only ensures compliance with the law, but above all guarantees the safety of employees

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