Germany · Machinery and robots

Documentation check for Germany

First identify your situation, then review the relevant records. This check covers making products available and using them in Germany. The assessment remains in your browser.

The English and Chinese versions also cover Germany. Swiss requirements are covered in the Switzerland section. Swiss requirements →

1. Identify your situation

You may have more than one role. Select “Unclear” when unsure. The result will identify the classification that remains open.

What is your role? Manufacturer / own build / own brand Importer from a third country into the EU Distributor / reseller System integrator / modification business Operator / user

Manufacturer also includes building machinery for your own operation and products under your own name or brand. Integration or modification does not automatically trigger manufacturer obligations in every case.

What type of product is it?

A robot arm is not automatically partly completed machinery. Its actual intended purpose and design matter.

First EU placing on the market or putting into service for own use

This refers to the relevant product state, not a later resale date. A date alone does not determine the legal classification of a modification.

Are there modifications or a planned conversion?

Hardware, software, safety functions, performance or intended purpose. Not every modification requires a new declaration of conformity.

Does the product include radio functions?

For example Wi-Fi, Bluetooth or radio determination/radar. Assess applicable radio requirements separately.

Is there a data connection to devices or networks?

Direct or indirect; the Cyber Resilience Act is not limited to internet connections.

Does the product include AI functions?

The specific function and its safety relevance matter. “Contains AI” is not a high-risk classification.

Is there a special area of application?

For example a medical device, toy, explosion protection, lifting people, standalone electrical equipment or personal data.

Changing roles or characteristics clears the previous list. Then generate the new list.

2. Records for your situation

Record the status of each item. Several contents may be combined in one dossier. The manufacturer’s file, supplied documents and workplace records serve different purposes.

Source status: 10 October 2026. The list covers core documentation areas; it does not exhaustively assess sector-specific law or the accuracy of the contents.

3. Check filing and traceability

Can the records listed for your situation be located? Are product, software and firmware states linked to the records? Are modifications and earlier states documented separately? Can you trace which record applies to which product state?

Interactive classification requires JavaScript. Your answers are not transmitted. Without JavaScript, a general overview appears below; its conditions need separate assessment.For machinery and robots on the German market or in German operation. Medical devices, toys, explosive atmospheres, standalone electrical equipment, personal data and other special cases may trigger additional requirements. This check does not fully resolve those cases.

Product description and intended purpose: Part of the manufacturer’s technical documentation.

Product risk assessment: Product-specific; distinct from the workplace risk assessment.

Drawings, circuit and control diagrams: Scope depends on the product and necessary safety evidence.

Standards and technical solutions: Also when harmonised standards are used only partly or not at all.

Calculations and safety test reports: No blanket obligation to conduct every conceivable laboratory test.

Operating instructions and safety information: Digital provision under the new Machinery Regulation is subject to its conditions.

EC declaration of conformity: Machinery Directive: EC declaration. Machinery Regulation from 20 Jan 2027: EU declaration. No automatic reissue for all older machines.

Declaration of incorporation: Only for machinery genuinely classified as partly completed. Under the Directive, also identify the EU-established person authorised to compile the relevant technical documentation.

Assembly instructions: Accompanies the partly completed machinery until incorporation.

Workplace risk assessment: Employer obligation in Germany; not a blanket requirement for private users.

Workplace operating instruction: Before first use; consider the statutory exception for equipment not requiring instructions for use.

Instruction records: Germany; particular hazards may require additional authorisation.

Inspection records: For example safety dependent on assembly, damaging influences, a modification requiring inspection or exceptional events. No blanket annual inspection.

Documentation check for Germany

1. Identify your situation

2. Records for your situation

3. Check filing and traceability

4. Your documentation status