HERNDON, VA. – PMMI, The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies, released the latest version of the American National Standard on the Safety of Packaging and Processing Machinery.

PMMI shared that ANSI/PMMI B155.1-2023 introduces critical changes that prioritize user safety and industry advancements, following a revision led by industry experts. The standard serves as a guide to suppliers and users, with a documented risk assessment process designed to identify foreseeable hazards and risks.

The update, per PMMI, addresses evolving safety concerns, technological advancements and expanding operational landscapes. The association said contributions to the development committee for the overhaul came from machine builders, consumer packaged goods companies and technology suppliers.

“By introducing these comprehensive updates, the ANSI/PMMI B155.1-2023 standard sets a new benchmark for safety in the packaging and processing machinery industry,” said Tom Egan, vice president, industry services, PMMI. “This revised standard reaffirms the commitment of PMMI to the safety and well-being of industry professionals, ensuring that technological advancements go hand-in-hand with the highest levels of safety.”’

Updates to the standard include refined responsibilities, the introduction of co-packer, co-manufacturer concepts, updated legacy machinery requirements, a clarified scope, remote/tele-operation enhancements, reorganized clauses and whole body access requirements.

“Safety is critical to all operators,” said John Uber, head of product compliance for PMMI member company Mettler Toledo. “With an evolving work landscape, having industry standards that are rigorously evaluated on a consistent basis allows us to stay vigilant in mitigating risk.”

The standard, which can be purchased online, debuted in its original version in 1972 and has been reviewed and revised through the years.