Case study

Snow groomers certified as per new Machinery Directive

(Januar 2009)

The new Machinery Directive will come into effect on 29 December 2009, bringing in its wake stricter requirements for risk assessment and documentation. TÜV SÜD Industrie Service has now tested and certified all groomer models of PRINOTH AG, a globally leading manufacturer of slope and snow groomers. As the prerequisite for CE marking, products underwent a comprehensive risk assessment and test series.

“Using a risk matrix, risks involving severe consequences can be pinpointed“, explains Dr Rolf Zöllner. “In this context, we assess the risks for drivers and maintenance staff as well as possible risks for the environment.“ Based on the results of the risk assessment, the experts then developed measures to reduce the probability of occurrence and the consequences of a possible damage event. The Hazard Pro software developed by TÜV SÜD proved of invaluable assistance in this context.

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TÜV SÜD Industrie Service has issued certification for all snow-groomer models of PRINOTH AG, based on risk assessment and product testing procedures.

Tests and measurements for CE declarations

In addition to risk assessment, several test series and measurements were carried out and test reports reviewed. “Within the scope of EMC or roll-over protection testing, for example, we cooperated with the test and inspection organisations on which PRINOTH has relied in the past“, notes Dr Ralf Schirmer, Head of the Certification Body of TÜV SÜD Industrie Service. Further important elements in certification testing included vibration measurement as per the EU vibration Directive 2002/44/EC or vibration testing of the driver seat.

PRINOTH had the technical parameters of its slope groomers verified for compliance with the new Machinery Directive at an early stage, and thus benefits from reliable risk assessment and documentation in line with statutory requirements. TÜV SÜD's integrated approach to risk management expertise additionally provides PRINOTH with security concerning the field use of its products, also when developing international markets.