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What is BS 8646 - Autonomous mobile machinery in agriculture and horticulture about?
The use of autonomous mobile machinery (AMM) in agriculture and horticulture can be hazardous, especially when integrated with staffed farm operations. BS 8646:2023 aims to help users achieve a safe, confident integration of AMM.
Who is BS 8646 - Autonomous mobile machinery in agriculture and horticulture for?
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This document is for owners and operators of autonomous mobile machinery in an agricultural or horticultural environment including farmers or horticulturists
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It may benefit designers, manufacturers, importers and distributors of autonomous mobile machinery for use in an agricultural or horticultural environment
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It may also be of use to managers of agricultural or horticultural operations including those responsible for purchasing of equipment, training in use of equipment or those who are responsible for risk assessment and safety, as well as government agencies
Why should you use BS 8646 - Autonomous mobile machinery in agriculture and horticulture?
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The standard clarifies roles and responsibilities of owners and operators, designers and manufacturers, and importers and distributors to reduce uncertainties
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It provides guidance on safety and risk management processes; farm planning and design; information, instruction and training; and maintenance requirements to enable farmers and other users to take advantage of available technology and develop their expertise
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BS 8646:2023 will encourage wider use of AMM equipment in all sizes of farm, particularly smaller enterprises, providing economic advantage, improving efficiency and supporting the growth of innovative industry so that benefits from its use can be realized more quickly i.e. more economic production of crops, more sustainable production (with regards to environment, climate etc), helping ensure greater food security in future, and meeting Net Zero targets
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It will facilitate the development of the AMM manufacturing sector and support regulators and enforcement agencies
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It can help users to increase confidence in AMM and strengthen risk management
To learn more about what BS 8646:2023 covers and its benefits, listen to The Standards Show podcast episode here.
BS 8646:2023 contributes to UN Sustainable Development Goal 2 on ending hunger, achieving food security and sustainable agriculture, Goal 3 on good health and well-being, Goal 8 on decent work and economic growth, Goal 9 on industry, innovation and infrastructure, Goal 12 on responsible consumption and production, Goal 13 on climate action and Goal 15 on life on land.
