ISO 12643-1:2023

Overview

ISO 12643-1:2023 is the foundational international standard addressing safety requirements for graphic technology equipment and systems. Developed by ISO, this document outlines general safety specifications for the design and construction of new machines used in graphic technology, such as prepress, printing, binding, finishing, converting, corrugated board manufacturing, and stand-alone platen presses. The standard covers standalone and interconnected systems where equipment actuators are governed by a unified control system.

The requirements in ISO 12643-1:2023 apply to a broad spectrum of equipment within the printing and paper industry, setting the baseline for mitigating recognized hazards and ensuring workplace safety. This document should be used alongside other applicable parts of the ISO 12643 series, which provide further details for specific equipment types.

Key Topics

ISO 12643-1:2023 comprehensively addresses significant hazards and safety measures relevant to graphic technology equipment, including:

• Mechanical and Electrical Hazards
  Guidance on protections against moving parts, electric shock, and system failures.
• Prevention of Slipping, Tripping, and Falling
  Requirements for machinery platforms, passageways, and safety signs.
• Ergonomics
  Considerations to minimize operator fatigue and improve user interface safety.
• Noise and Emissions
  Specifications on limiting noise levels and controlling emissions such as ink mist, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and ozone.
• Radiation Safety
  Measures to protect against UV and laser radiation risks.
• Fire and Explosion Protection
  Provisions for handling combustible materials and preventing explosive atmospheres.
• Thermal Hazards
  Requirements for protecting users from burns due to contact with hot machine parts.
• Substance Safety
  Control measures for hazardous substances and process materials.
• Control System Reliability
  Safeguards for equipment malfunctions, including verification of safety-related components.

ISO 12643-1 emphasizes risk assessment, safeguarding strategies (physical guards, interlocks), emergency stops, warning devices, and detailed guidelines for machine markings and instruction manuals.

Applications

ISO 12643-1:2023 is critical for manufacturers, integrators, and users in the printing and paper converting sectors who are responsible for:

• Design and Manufacturing
  Ensuring new machinery meets global safety requirements from the conceptual stage through construction.
• System Integration
  Combining equipment in production lines with unified safety and control standards.
• Compliance and Certification
  Demonstrating conformity with international safety regulations for market access and legal assurance.
• Risk Management
  Conducting hazard identification and implementing preventative measures in the workplace.
• Maintenance and Operation
  Developing training materials, operating handbooks, and marking systems for safer day-to-day use.

Organizations that apply ISO 12643-1 benefit from improved occupational safety, reduced workplace accidents, efficient risk mitigation, and enhanced product credibility in international markets.

Related Standards

ISO 12643-1:2023 is intended for use in conjunction with relevant parts of the ISO 12643 series, each covering specific types of graphic technology equipment. Key related standards and references include:

• ISO 12643 Parts 2–7: Equipment-specific safety requirements for various machinery such as printing presses, binding and finishing machines, and corrugated board systems.
• ISO 12100: General principles for machinery risk assessment and reduction.
• ISO 13849-1, -2: Safety-related parts of control systems.
• ISO 13850: Emergency stop function.
• ISO 3864-1, -2, -3: Safety signs and markings.
• IEC 60204-1: Safety of machinery - Electrical equipment of machines.
• ISO 14120: Requirements for the design and construction of guards.

For comprehensive compliance, organizations should reference not only ISO 12643-1 but also the applicable standards tailored to their specific equipment and operational context.

By aligning with ISO 12643-1:2023, the graphic technology industry enhances equipment safety, ensures regulatory compliance, and protects operators across diverse printing and converting operations.