- Directive 2006/42/EC generally applies up to and including 19 January 2027.
- Regulation (EU) 2023/1230 applies from 20 January 2027.
- There is no parallel transition period; the date of placing on the market or putting into service is decisive.
What applies today?
Machinery placed on the market or put into service by 19 January 2027 is generally assessed under Directive 2006/42/EC. This includes the risk assessment, technical file, instructions, applicable conformity-assessment procedure and EC Declaration of Conformity.
Products lawfully placed on the market before the cut-off date may continue to be made available afterwards. This is different from a parallel transition period for new products.
What changes in 2027?
From 20 January 2027, Regulation (EU) 2023/1230 replaces the Directive and applies directly in all EU Member States. It updates the framework for digital instructions, safety-related software, connected machinery and substantial modifications.
Not every change applies to every machine. The right approach is a documented gap assessment for the specific product and intended market date.
- Compare the risk assessment and essential safety requirements
- Assess software, connectivity and protection against corruption
- Review digital instructions and information provision
- Clarify modifications and responsibilities
- Review the conformity-assessment procedure and possible third-party involvement
Which records should manufacturers review now?
Start with the documentation for one representative machine or product family. Check whether the product description, risk assessment, applied standards, test reports, instructions, declarations and revision status are consistent.
ClearCE turns this into a prioritised action plan or completes the agreed updates through to handover-ready documentation.
Sources & legal status
This overview is based exclusively on official legal and public-authority sources.
The applicable legislation cannot be determined from the product name alone. Relevant factors include design, voltage, drive system, radio functions, intended use and the date of placing on the market. This content provides general technical information and does not replace a product-specific assessment or legal advice.