NR-12 Compliance: UniSafety’s 8-Step Methodology for Machine Safety Projects

With operations in Brazil and abroad, UniSafety has developed a methodology for machine safety projects that ranges from risk assessment to the final validation of compliance measures in accordance with NR-12. Learn more!

Bringing machines into compliance with NR-12 involves installing safety devices and correcting specific non-conformities, but it does not stop there. According to Guilherme Neto, engineer, co-founder of UniSafety, and PhD candidate in Safety Sciences, achieving consistent results in safety projects depends on a well-defined process that considers everything from risk identification to the final validation of implemented solutions. “When a project is conducted in a structured manner, we are able to balance regulatory compliance, operational safety, and production continuity,” he explains.

Based on this vision, UniSafety developed a methodology built on eight complementary stages. Operating throughout Brazil and with experience in projects carried out in Germany, Belgium, the United States, Italy, Paraguay, and Turkey, the company has consolidated a process that brings together different engineering specialties to deliver comprehensive machine and equipment safety solutions. Below, we present the stages that make up this methodology and explain how each contributes to the success of an NR-12 compliance project.

Also read: Discover UniSafety’s exclusive NR-12 management software and see its benefits

The Methodology Applied by UniSafety in NR-12 Safety Projects

Each machine has its own characteristics, different risk levels, and specific compliance needs. For this reason, UniSafety conducts its projects through a technical sequence of stages that allows risks to be analyzed, solutions to be planned, designed, implemented, and validated in an integrated manner. The result is a process that provides greater predictability for management, better control over investments, and full alignment with applicable regulatory requirements.

#1 Risk Assessment

Every effective solution begins with a detailed understanding of existing risks. UniSafety’s risk assessment follows the requirements of ABNT NBR ISO 12100 and NBR 14153 standards, including the identification of hazards present in the machine, risk quantification through the HRN (Hazard Rating Number) methodology, and the definition of the measures required to reduce those risks. This stage also establishes the reliability level required for safety systems and considers complementary standards applicable to the identified risks. At the end of the process, technical recommendations and management actions are presented to support the maintenance of safety throughout the equipment’s entire service life.

#2 NR-12 Compliance Assessment

Once the risks have been mapped, the next stage is the preparation of the NR-12 compliance assessment. This is a technical audit that evaluates the level of machine compliance with the requirements of the standard. The assessment developed by UniSafety goes beyond simply identifying non-conformities. The document compiles objective and technically substantiated information, serving as the basis for managing compliance measures and defining intervention priorities. The goal is to find solutions that balance safety, productivity, and economic feasibility, allowing the company to strategically plan its actions.

#3 NR-12 Training

Machine safety also depends on the people who interact with the equipment on a daily basis. For this reason, training is an integral part of UniSafety’s methodology. The training programs cover theoretical and practical aspects related to the safe operation of machinery, including risk identification, safety device operation, lockout procedures, safe work methods, and guidance for situations requiring maintenance or inspection interventions. The courses are conducted by qualified professionals, supervised by a licensed technical manager, and accompanied by the corresponding Technical Responsibility Annotation (ART).

#4 Action Plan for NR-12 Compliance

Following the risk analysis and technical assessment, an action plan is developed. This document serves as a management tool that organizes the activities required for machine compliance. The methodology used by UniSafety establishes priorities based on the criticality of each action, enabling the creation of a schedule aligned with the company’s operational needs. This allows management to allocate resources more efficiently and monitor project progress with greater predictability.

#5 Technical Specification Report

The technical specification report compiles the information necessary to guide the development of the proposed solutions. Although it does not function as a complete executive design project, this document provides fundamental parameters for defining safety devices, control systems, and the architecture required to meet regulatory requirements. In addition to serving as a technical reference for engineers and designers, the report allows managers to gain a complete overview of the scope of the compliance measures and the investments required for implementation.

#6 Safety System Design and Installation

Once the technical guidelines have been established, the development of safety projects begins. UniSafety prepares electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, and pneumatic designs using licensed software and technical standards acquired from the appropriate official bodies. Implementation is carried out by qualified professionals and accompanied by the corresponding Technical Responsibility Annotations. This approach ensures traceability, legal compliance, and adherence to engineering best practices throughout every stage of the project.

#7 Manufacturing and Installation of Mechanical Guards

Mechanical guards play a fundamental role in reducing risks associated with machine operation. Therefore, their manufacturing follows strict quality criteria, complying with the requirements of NR-12, ISO 14120, and other applicable standards. UniSafety develops customized solutions for different types of equipment, taking into account factors such as ergonomics, ease of maintenance, and operational feasibility. The objective is to ensure that the guards fulfill their protective function without compromising the company’s production routine.

#8 NR-12 Compliance Report

The final stage consists of preparing the NR-12 compliance report. This document formally certifies that the machine or equipment complies with applicable regulatory requirements and provides a detailed record of the solutions implemented. In addition to serving as technical evidence for audits, inspections, and internal management processes, the report provides documentary assurance for the company and all professionals involved in the operation and maintenance of the equipment. UniSafety’s international experience in issuing this type of documentation allows it to support projects involving imported equipment and multinational operations as well.

Understand why we are a reference in machine safety solutions: UniSafety is recognized for its commitment to excellence in NR-12 compliance.

Beyond the Stages: Technology to Support the Entire NR-12 Management Process

Conducting an NR-12 compliance project is only part of the challenge. Equally important is ensuring the monitoring of actions, maintaining organized documentation, and having quick access to the information required for machine safety management. For this reason, UniSafety has developed an exclusive NR-12 Management Software for its clients. The platform was created to centralize information related to machines, identified risks, technical documents, indicators, and action plans in a single environment.

Integrated with UniSafety’s methodology, the system records every stage of the process and provides real-time monitoring of completed actions. The platform also includes features such as intelligent search capabilities, simplified indicator visualization, and continuous monitoring of planned actions, enabling managers to quickly access the information required for decision-making. In addition to supporting compliance implementation, the technology developed by UniSafety contributes to more organized management, greater information traceability, and enhanced control over compliance with NR-12 requirements.

Learn more about this solution designed to simplify compliance monitoring and technical information management: Discover UniSafety’s exclusive NR-12 management software and see its benefits.

A Methodology That Supports Every Stage of the Project

NR-12 compliance projects require technical expertise, planning, and the ability to integrate different engineering disciplines. At UniSafety, this work is carried out through an eight-stage methodology combined with exclusive management software that enables centralized monitoring of the entire process, from risk identification to the final validation of implemented solutions.

By relying on a multidisciplinary team, specialized professionals, and experience gained through national and international projects, UniSafety delivers not only regulatory compliance but also an organized, technically sound process aligned with operational needs. Visit www.unisafety.com.br to learn more about our NR-12 solutions and how we can support your operation in building a safer and more structured work environment.