scope:

This European standard applies to machines that are designed specifically to cut, split or peel block foams to commercially required shapes, using a single or double cut. All hazards listed in clause 4 are covered by this document. Cutting of block foams may be by: vertical cutting; horizontal cutting; inclined cutting; transverse cutting; contour cutting; or a combination of the above. The material to be cut may be supported or transported by: a fixed table; a shuttle table; a conveyor; a turntable; rollers; mandrel; or a combination of the above. Cutting can be either manual or automatic. Cutting tools can be: smooth-edged or toothed bandknives; cutting wires. Movement of the cutting tool can be either oscillating or continuous in one direction. This European Standard does not apply to: laser and water jet cutting; hot wire cutting; wood, metal and food cutting machines. The safety requirements for the additional hazards arising from the interaction between bandknife cutting machines and ancillary equipment, especially loading and unloading devices, are specified. The safety requirements for the ancillary equipment itself are not specified. This European Standard covers machines used for cutting plastics and rubber having a cellular or compact structure. However, it may also be applied when these machines are used for cutting other materials, for example textiles, fibres and mineral wool, if cutting these materials does not create additional hazards. This document is not applicable to bandknife cutting machines manufactured before the date of its publication as an EN.