Through a rigorous technical evaluation process, ECM certified the MAINCA bandsaw according to the Machinery Directive, verifying the effectiveness of the safety solutions adopted for use in the food industry.

In the food processing industry, machine safety is a top priority. Equipment must not only be efficient and hygienic, but also provide maximum protection for operators. It is precisely with this in mind that EQUIPAMIENTOS CÁRNICOS S.L., Spanish company specialized in manufacturing meat processing machines under the MAINCA brand, turned to ECM – Ente Certificazione Macchine (Notified Body No. 1282) – to obtain the Type-Examination Certification for its food industry band saw.

THE MACHINERY DIRECTIVE: TYPE-EXAMINATION CERTIFICATION

Band saws for food industry fall under Annex IV of Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC. This means that, before being placed on the market, they must undergo mandatory assessment by a Notified Body to verify compliance with essential health and safety requirements. The applicable procedure in this case is defined in Annex IX of the Directive: the EU Type-Examination.

ECM’S ROLE: ASSESSMENTS, INSPECTIONS AND FUNCTIONAL TESTS

The ECM technical team followed the entire certification process, starting with a thorough document review. The technical file, user and maintenance manual, and all relevant documentation were assessed to ensure that each part met the applicable European standards.

We also carried out a prototype examination, directly at our premises. During the physical inspection of the machine, our staff conducted a series of functional tests and safety checks, based on the harmonized standard EN 12268:2014, which is specific to band saws for the food industry.

TESTING AND SAFETY DEVICES VERIFIED

Throughout the certification process, ECM conducted a series of technical tests on the machine prototype to verify its compliance with European safety standards. The successfully passed tests led to the issuance of official test reports and focused in particular on:

• Noise: measurement of noise emission levels during operation;
• Stability: verification of machine stability while in use;
• Electrical safety: According to EN 60204-1.

Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) was also verified through the analysis of the available technical documentation. In addition to these tests, ECM confirmed the correct presence and functionality of all main onboard safety devices, including emergency stop buttons, safety sensors, electrical and pneumatic control systems, and electronic modules for safe stop management.

MAINCA MACHINERY: INNOVATION IN OPERATOR PROTECTION

A particularly interesting aspect in terms of safety is the manufacturer’s decision to implement advanced risk-reduction solutions that exceed the requirements of EN 12268:2014. Specifically, the machinery is equipped with a highly responsive braking system that activates in significantly less time than required by the standard when the guard is opened. A near-instantaneous response, achieved through the effective interaction between sensor and braking system, ensuring immediate blade stoppage.

Furthermore, the MAINCA band saw incorporates a dual hand/glove detection system designed to actively protect the operator in the hazardous area near the moving blade. This system combines:

• An intelligent smart camera, equipped with lighting and image processing function, positioned above the blade to continuously monitor the work area and detect gloves or hands, automatically triggering machine lockout in case of detecting abnormal movement near the cutting area;
• A metal detector set up to identify magnetically detectable materials used in safety gloves

This dual verification — visual and physical — significantly increases the safety level, reducing the risk of accidental blade contact. It is a smart, preventive approach designed to avoid accidents before they happen, offering real, reliable protection.

AN EFFECTIVE PARTNERSHIP IN SERVICE OF SAFETY

At the conclusion of the process, ECM issued the EU Type-Examination Certificate, confirming that the MAINCA band saw – verified according to Annex IX of Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC – complies with the essential health and safety requirements established by EU legislation. This achievement allows Equipamientos Cárnicos S.L. to place its machine on the European market in full conformity and safety, with the confidence of offering a product designed not only for performance, but for real user protection.

“This experience once again confirms ECM’s key role in supporting manufacturers in verifying the compliance of machinery subject to mandatory certification by the Notified Body,” states Luca Bedonni, CEO of ECM. “We appreciated the client’s strict approach to safety and their commitment to exceeding minimum legal requirements. This kind of dedication is what enables us to best fulfill our mission: to verify, enhance and certify truly safe and market-ready technical solutions.”

FROM MAINCA’S VOICE: WHEN CERTIFICATION BECOMES SHARED VALUE

The collaboration between ECM and Equipamientos Cárnicos S.L. (MAINCA) led not only to CE marking for a new equipment, but also to the development of a relationship built on mutual trust and shared vision. The feedback received from the MAINCA team was extr overwhelmingly positive.

We really appreciated the professional yet friendly relationship we had with ECM throughout the entire certification process. They were attentive to our needs and we worked together toward the same goal” explains Luis Vila – CEO of Equipamientos Cárnicos S.L.

The synergy between teams allowed for a transparent and collaborative approach in every phase of the process. “Investing in safety solutions that go beyond regulatory obligations is vital. In such a competitive world, European manufacturers who want to stay in the market must stand out by offering unique and innovative solutions. At MAINCA, we focus on user safety, providing a level well above what is strictly required by European regulations,” Luis continues.

“In a sense, it’s our social responsibility as manufacturers of inherently dangerous machinery: to make it far less dangerous for those who operate it. Every accident prevented is of priceless value to us.”

“CE marking is a global symbol of safety. It not only allows us to legally market this equipment within the European Union but also opens doors to international markets.”

 

“On an emotional level, obtaining CE certification for this machine means seeing a dream realized — the satisfaction of bringing to market a project that began six years ago with passion and enthusiasm. It’s a promise fulfilled, a legacy meant to endure. Our small contribution to making the world a safer, better place,” Luis concludes.

This is a certification that represents not only a technical achievement but also the realization of a long-term commitment and vision.

COMPLIANCE, INNOVATION, AND SHARED RESPONSIBILITY

The certification journey of the MAINCA band saw demonstrates that machinery safety is not just a legal requirement, but a strategic and conscious choice by manufacturers. When a company invests in advanced prevention technologies — as Equipamientos Cárnicos S.L. has done — it contributes meaningfully to building safer and more sustainable workplaces.

As a Notified Body, ECM is proud to support organizations that share this vision. The collaboration with MAINCA stands as a virtuous example of how technical expertise and a desire to innovate can converge toward a common goal: placing truly safe, reliable, and compliant machinery on the European market.

Looking to certify your machines and equipment with us?Contact us — our technical team is ready to support you at every stage of the process.

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