“Ignoring the law does not exempt from its enforcement… and in the case of machine safety, neither does it exempt from its consequences.”

On February 27th, the Parc de Recerca i Innovació of the Universitat de Girona was the setting for a revealing conference: “Responsabilitats derivades del Nou Reglament de màquines UE 1230/2023” (Responsibilities derived from the New EU Machinery Regulation 1230/2023). It was not just another training. It was a necessary jolt for all middle managers and technical managers who have not yet internalized the profound legal and strategic changes brought by the new European machinery regulation.

When integrating a line makes you a manufacturer … without knowing it

The first major lesson of the event was as clear as it was disturbing: many companies that believe they are simple users of machinery are assuming the role – and the legal responsibility – of manufacturers.
Automating a line, modifying a machine, integrating systems… everyday actions that, according to the new regulations, make you a “manufacturer for legal purposes”, with all the obligations that this entails.

Joan Perona, CE certified expert, made it clear: the incorrect application of Regulation 1230/2023, combined with Directive 2006/42/EC and RD 1215/97, can lead to serious sanctions, including criminal sanctions, for managers and technicians.

Early risk management is no longer optional

The most valuable thing was not the warning, but the guidance. Because the conference also explained how to anticipate from the design and purchase of machinery, complying with the Essential Safety Requirements (ESR) and avoiding unpleasant surprises.
In the words of Paco Chavero, prevention consultant, safety is not “put” afterwards: it is designed from the first technical level.

The event also addressed the always uncomfortable “what if there is an accident?”. The legal and financial consequences of negligence in this area can be devastating for any company. It’s not just about fines: it’s about lives, reputation, business continuity and criminal liability.

The highlight: Manel Bestraten and the systemic approach

The day reached its climax with the participation of Manel Bestraten, former president of INSST and current president of MIESES GLOBAL. With his usual clarity and depth, Bestraten urged attendees to look beyond regulatory compliance.
His message was direct:

“It’s not just about avoiding sanctions. It’s about how we understand the organization, how we manage change, how we design safe and sustainable work environments. Prevention is not a cost: it’s part of the system.”

Through his integrative vision, he connected the human factor, organizational culture and business strategy, reminding all managers that leading is also caring. And that anticipation in safety is an act of responsibility, but also of organizational intelligence.

Preventive culture as a strategic advantage

The final brooch, shared with such references as Gemma Massana (Vall Companys) and Abel Lacasa (ETEX – Ursa Ibérica), underlined a cross-cutting idea:
Integrating prevention into technical management is not only an ethical or legal obligation. It is a competitive advantage.
It minimizes downtime, reduces conflict, builds internal and external trust… and yes, protects management from unnecessary liability.

What’s next?

This type of conference is much more than training. They are mirrors that show us what we may not have wanted to see:

• That, as a command, you have more legal responsibility than you realize.
• That ignorance will not protect you when the inspection or accident comes.
• That proactive prevention is cost-effective, even if you don’t see it on the Excel sheet.

Conclusion

Not being informed is no longer an excuse, it’s a risk.
If you manage, design, purchase or supervise machinery in your company, it’s time to get up to date. Because the line between being a user or a manufacturer has blurred. And because the law has already changed… whether you know it or not.