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Regulation 2024/1208 (EU) on Noise: A New Era in Noise Measurement
Are you aware of the specific changes in noise measurement for machinery with the implementation of Regulation 2024/1208 (EU) on noise? Many discussions about replacing Directives 2000/14/EC and 2005/88/EC with this new regulation focus on the need for new measurement methods. However, the modifications are more profound, and understanding them is crucial for proper preparation for changes effective from May 22, 2025. Regulation 2024/1208 does not repeal the directives entirely but updates their annexes.
Updating Annexes Instead of Repealing Directives
It’s important to note that Regulation 2024/1208 does not entirely repeal Directive 2000/14/EC (as amended by Directive 2005/88/EC). Instead, it primarily updates its annexes, particularly those concerning noise measurement methods and information requirements. This means that while the main objectives and structure of the regulations remain similar, machine manufacturers will face new, more detailed, and uniform procedures regarding noise emissions. This approach facilitates a transition to standardized requirements across the EU without necessitating the complete abolition of previous legal frameworks. The existing directives will still apply, but from May 22, 2025, manufacturers must adhere to the updated guidelines in the revised annexes, including new measurement methods, labeling, and presentation of results in declarations of conformity.
Legal Framework Shift: Directive vs. Regulation
- Directives (2000/14/EC and 2005/88/EC): Required implementation into national law, sometimes leading to discrepancies in interpretation and application by individual member states.
- Regulation 2024/1208: Will apply directly in all EU countries from the specified date, ensuring uniform rules for manufacturers, distributors, and importers of machinery without the need for additional transposition into national law.
What does this change in practice?
It facilitates the uniform application of requirements across the EU, reducing the risk of varying standards in different countries. If you introduce machines to multiple markets, some barriers related to differing interpretations of old regulations are removed.
New, More Precise Noise Measurement Methods
Previous directives specified general procedures for noise emission testing based on harmonized standards, but their implementation allowed manufacturers some flexibility (e.g., in choosing measurement conditions).
Regulation 2024/1208 introduces detailed guidelines regarding:
- Selected test conditions (e.g., considering the machine’s operating mode that generates the highest noise level).
- Types and quality of measurement equipment.
- Presentation of results (e.g., required maximum, average, or minimum values).
Consequences for manufacturers:
- Need to update or purchase measurement equipment that meets new standards.
- Increased test accuracy, which may require verification or repetition of previous results.
- Standardization of measurement report formats, which must be included in the technical documentation of machines.
Expanded Scope of Machines and Devices Covered
Compared to Directive 2000/14/EC and its amendment (2005/88/EC), Regulation 2024/1208 clarifies and in some cases expands the list of machines for which mandatory noise emission measurements are required.
- Definitions of machine types covered by the regulations have been clarified, minimizing the risk of incorrect device classification.
- Acoustic power level limits and situations where residual risk (related to noise) requires additional operator protection measures have been specified.
What to watch out for?
If your company manufactures or integrates machines that were previously borderline in terms of requirements—or did not require noise level declaration under the old directives—they may now be unequivocally included within the scope of the regulation.
Regulation 2024/1208: Obligation to Update Information in Declarations and Labels
New Requirements in the Declaration of Conformity
Existing declarations of conformity (compliant with directives 2000/14/EC and 2005/88/EC) will not suffice after May 22, 2025—Regulation 2024/1208 introduces the obligation for a detailed description of measurement results:
- Precise indication of the measurement methods and standards used.
- Providing the maximum recorded acoustic power under specified operating conditions of the device.
- Information on noise reduction measures (e.g., additional machine enclosures, acoustic dampers, etc.).
Labeling of Noise Levels
The regulation also requires that machines or near the control panel display appropriate information about sound emission levels, so the operator is aware of potential hazards during operation.
Practical example:
- If a machine has a work cycle generating above-average noise, it must be clearly indicated in a permanent and legible way—e.g., with a noise pictogram sticker or a clear description.
- The user manual must provide recommendations regarding hearing protection measures.
Increased Role of Risk Assessment and Accompanying Documentation
Regulation 2024/1208 emphasizes the importance of risk assessment in the context of noise more than the old directives. It involves not only conducting measurements but also:
- Indicating to what extent noise may pose a threat to operators and people nearby.
- Determining whether additional protective measures are necessary (e.g., remote control, soundproof cabin).
- Considering the effects of noise accumulation when machines are working or in high production intensity conditions.
In practice:
The new regulation requires a broader and more detailed analysis—it is no longer enough to have a “typical noise measurement protocol.” Risk assessment documentation should cover possible work scenarios, and if machines are modified or upgraded, data should be updated based on new measurement methods.
Regulation 2024/1208: Implications for Manufacturers and Companies Introducing Machines to the Market
- Additional testing costs: New, more precise measurement procedures may require specialized equipment or services from accredited laboratories.
- Need for design modifications: If a machine exceeds permissible noise levels, the manufacturer must consider improvements (e.g., changing the casing, acoustic insulation).
- Change in information policy: More data in the user manual and on machine labels, new markings related to sound emission.
- Possible need for recertification: If machines were certified based on old regulations and remain in production after May 22, 2025, the process of demonstrating compliance with Regulation 2024/1208 will need to be conducted.
How to Effectively Adapt to Regulation 2024/1208?
- Review documentation and procedures: Check if current measurement reports and risk assessment meet the new noise measurement standards.
- Set an action plan: Plan which machine models require retesting or upgrades; include potential expenses for new measurements and possible design modifications in the budget.
- Invest in training and consulting: New regulations can be complex; specialized training and consultations with companies offering engineering outsourcing can help avoid mistakes.
- Strengthen marketing efforts: Show customers that your company fully complies with the latest noise emission standards—this is an asset that builds a reputation as a responsible and innovative manufacturer.
Regulation 2024/1208 is not just a “new version” of existing noise directives—it is a fundamental change in the methodology of measurement and reporting of sound emissions. It includes more precise standards, expands the scope of machines, imposes additional obligations in declarations and labeling, and primarily equalizes rules across the Union, eliminating the discretion of interpretation of regulations.
Until May 22, 2025, the existing directives can still be used, but failing to prepare in time for the new rules may mean halting production, introducing machines to the market, or risking sanctions. Therefore, it is worth verifying your procedures now to operate efficiently once the regulation comes into effect, benefiting user safety and your brand’s image.
FAQ: Regulation 2024/1208
Regulation 2024/1208 generally applies to machines emitting noise outdoors (machines operating in open spaces), and its scope is broader than just large construction or agricultural machines. It includes any devices that can generate significant noise levels during outdoor work, such as lawnmowers, compactors, chainsaws, and other municipal devices. Therefore, even manufacturers of smaller machines should verify their documentation and measurement processes according to the new guidelines.
Regulation 2024/1208 requires precisely defined measurement conditions, often indicated in the harmonized standards it refers to. This typically involves so-called ‘standard conditions’ (wind speed, humidity, temperature) that minimize the influence of atmospheric factors on the test result. Therefore, it is not necessary to conduct tests in the full spectrum of weather. However, if a machine is intended for operation in extreme conditions (e.g., snow, heavy rain), these scenarios can be included in the machine’s risk assessment to present potential noise emission differences to users.
It depends on the nature of the modification. If a structural change can affect noise emissions (e.g., different engine type, exhaust system modification, use of additional sound-dampening covers), noise measurements should be repeated to demonstrate compliance with Regulation 2024/1208. However, if the change does not affect generated noise (e.g., a minor change in control elements), updating measurements may not be necessary. It is advisable to document every change and assess its impact on noise emission levels.
According to Regulation 2024/1208, key information about the machine’s acoustic power (or maximum noise level) should be included in the declaration of conformity and in the accompanying documentation (e.g., user manual). Additionally, for many machines operating outdoors, regulations require labeling in a visible location (often near the control panel) to provide the operator with clear information about noise emission levels. Detailed guidelines in this regard are found in the relevant harmonized standards referred to by the Regulation.
Update measurement procedures: Ensure you have equipment and methodology that meet the requirements of Regulation 2024/1208.
Review construction: Check if current design solutions achieve permissible noise emission levels; plan modifications if necessary (e.g., dampers, covers).
Documentation: Adjust technical documentation of machines, including the user manual, declaration of conformity and noise measurement results to the new format.
Risk assessment: Update risk analysis, considering potential work scenarios in open spaces.
Consultations and training: Consider using external experts (e.g., engineering outsourcing) to help interpret regulations and conduct measurements.