Neilson Hydraulics invests in functional safety training

Machines that are being placed on the market in the UK and Europe are required to be CE Marked under the Machinery Directive before they are put into service. The Directive applies to machines that are new, but also applies to machines that have been built for own use, or where they have been rebranded or significantly modified.

With the latest advances in machinery and the ever-growing complexities, Functional Safety is now playing a huge role in recognising potential hazards in machines and, therefore, the process of CE marking under the Machinery Directive.

Nick Doe, the Electrical Controls Manager at Neilson Hydraulics, comments: "Assessing these hazards, whether it be hydraulic, pneumatic, electrical, electronic or software, and implementing procedures to remove or prevent them is vital to the day-to-day running of our business. As a systems integrator, machine builder and component supplier, it is essential that we make our customers aware of the functional safety requirements and, through our functional safety training, we are now able to offer additional advice, which will set us apart from other companies."

Most manufacturers will sign a Declaration of Conformity (DoC); the CE marking is a visible sign that the manufacturer of the product has fulfilled the requirements in relation to the current Machinery Directive, which includes functional safety risk assessment evaluations and documentation. Through undertaking the functional safety training, Neilson can undertake a thorough assessment and evaluation on behalf of its customers to help them achieve their CE requirements.

Neilson Hydraulics says it is one of the few companies in Europe to have undertaken this training.

Nick Doe adds: "We are a strong technical and forward-thinking company that is reacting quickly to the advancements in new technology, which is allowing us to move into the next generation of hydraulics and electronics. It is essential that we continue to invest in training to offer unique services to our customers.

Find out more about the products and services from Neilson Hydraulics & Engineering at www.neilson-hydraulics.co.uk.