What is BS EN 16246 - Safety of hydraulic backhoes about?
BS EN 16246 is a standard that serves technical specifications for the safety of hydraulic backhoes, ensuring operational stability and safety of operators and machines in agricultural applications.
BS EN 16246 specifies the safety requirements and their verification for the design and construction of hydraulic backhoes mounted to the three-point linkage of a tractor.
BS EN 16246 describes methods for the elimination or reduction of hazards arising from the intended use of these machines by one person (the operator) in the course of normal operation and service. In addition, it specifies the type of information on safe working practices (including residual risks) to be provided by the manufacturer.
BS EN 16246 also covers materials connected with excavation activities that are not considered unit loads.
Note: BS EN 16246 does not cover -
- Lifting operations for the movement of unit loads with hooks or other similar devices
- Requirements for quick hitch devices
- Specific requirements related to road traffic regulations
- Hydraulic backhoes manufactured before its publication
Who is BS EN 16246 - Safety of hydraulic backhoes for?
BS EN 16246 on the safety of hydraulic backhoes applies to:
- Manufacturers of hydraulic backhoes
- Dealers and importers of hydraulic backhoes
- Testing houses for hydraulic backhoes
- Safety assurance services
Why should you use BS EN 16246 - Safety of hydraulic backhoes?
A backhoe is a machine with hydraulically powered arms mounted to the rear three-point linkage of the tractor, used with an attachment for various operations, such as excavating, elevating, swinging, discharging. Fulfilling the safety requirements for backhoes ensures the safety of operators and the machine in agricultural applications.
BS EN 16246 taken together with EN ISO 4254-1, deals with all the significant hazards, hazardous situations and events relevant to hydraulic backhoes mounted to the three-point linkage of a tractor, when they are used as intended and under the conditions of misuse foreseeable by the manufacturer.
BS EN 16246 provides users guidance on safety requirements for backhoes, including attachment to the tractor, prevention of uncontrolled movement, controls, operators work station, access to work station, electrical equipment, hydraulics, stability of tractor backhoe combination, ensuring enabling the stable operability and prevention of malfunction in backhoes.
BS EN 16246 provides users guidance on information for use, instruction handbook, operator’s manual and marking of backhoes, enabling the standardization of information disclosure, operational instructions and safety protocols.
With obedience and compliance of BS EN 16246, users can develop and assess hydraulic backhoes, ensuring safety, performance and longevity in agricultural applications.