The safety of machines remains fundamental to protecting workers across all sectors. As modern machinery increasingly relies on software, connectivity, and AI, new risks emerge, such as cyber-attacks, remote interference, and unpredictable behaviour of AI-driven safety functions.
The updated Machinery Regulation (EU) 2023/1230 addresses these challenges by introducing mandatory cybersecurity protections and requiring independent conformity assessment for machinery using AI in safety-related functions. Yet, some industry associations are calling to delay these key provisions, seeking to postpone cybersecurity requirements until the end of 2027 and to defer AI-related assessments for at least two more years.
The ETUC strongly opposes these proposed delays. Additional time cannot be granted at the expense of workers’ safety. The Regulation already sets clear obligations, and Notified Bodies can be accredited even in the absence of harmonized standards. Making compliance dependent on the forthcoming European Commission Guide on machinery regulation risks indefinite postponement and creates unnecessary uncertainty.
As machinery becomes more digital, connected, and self-evolving, strong safety rules are more urgent than ever.
