Construction Site Regulations 2026: What Every Company Must Know About Machinery

Construction sites across Europe face thousands of inspections every year. Penalties for machinery irregularities can reach tens of thousands of euros and, in serious cases, lead to work suspension. Yet many companies still lack a clear picture of the current regulatory obligations. This guide summarises what every employer needs to know in 2026.

The Machinery Directive and Core Obligations
European health and safety legislation requires that all work equipment must be suitable, maintained in good working order and compliant with applicable standards. The employer is responsible for the selection, use and maintenance of machinery on site.
→ Work equipment must comply with European product directives before being put into service
→ Periodic maintenance is mandatory and interventions must be recorded
→ Operators must receive documented training and instruction for every machine used
→ PPE must be compatible with the machinery being operated

CE Marking: What It Really Means
CE marking is not a quality certification — it is a manufacturer’s declaration that the machine complies with applicable European directives (e.g. Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC). On site, all machinery must carry CE marking and the corresponding technical documentation.
→ Declaration of Conformity: must be retained throughout the machine’s working life
→ Operating and maintenance manual: mandatory in the local language
→ Technical file: kept by the manufacturer for at least 10 years
→ For imported machines: always verify CE compliance before purchase

The Maintenance Register: The Often-Ignored Obligation
Many companies are unaware that a maintenance and inspection register is compulsory for equipment subject to specific risks. During an inspection, the absence of this document results in an automatic penalty. Polieri supplies every machine with a maintenance booklet compliant with current regulations, including control plans and recommended service intervals.

💡 Key advice: always keep machinery documentation on site, not just in the office. During an inspection, having documents immediately available can prevent a work suspension order.