New ISO Standard Implemented in Cutting Systems

ESAB Welding & Cutting Products has effectively implemented the new European EN ISO standard 17916 for the safety of thermal cutting machines. "ESAB spearheaded the initiative to establish the new EN ISO standard, which provides enhanced worker safety, and is the first and only cutting systems manufacturer to currently stand in full compliance," said a company spokesperson. "Going forward, all cutting systems manufactured at ESAB's Karben, Germany, facility will meet the new EN ISO safety requirements, which are scheduled to go into effect industry-wide in late 2014."

The new EN ISO standard mandates that OEMs conduct their own evaluation and testing for the safety of their thermal cutting machines. The standard defines the potential risks to cutting systems operators and the measures to counter them.

"In addition to compliance with the new EN ISO directive and all applicable industry standards, ESAB provides a variety of safety options to help ensure optimum worker protection during machine operation," said the spokesperson. "ESAB's automated cutting systems are designed to provide an optimal balance of precision cutting capability, high productivity and ease of use for the highest price/performance value."

ISO, the International Organization for Standardization, is a worldwide federation of national standards bodies (ISO member bodies) and developer of voluntary International Standards. "ESAB is the first company to achieve all-inclusive external certification for the three key management standards - ISO 9001, ISO 14001 and OHSAS 18001," said the spokesperson. "The Environmental, Health and Safety Management System and certification cover all activities, people and units in ESAB globally."

For more information contact:

ESAB Welding & Cutting Products

P.O. Box 100545

411 S. Ebenezer Road

Florence, SC 29501

800-ESAB-123

email@esab.com

www.esabna.com