This document deals with the significant hazards, hazardous situations and events as listed in Clause 4 which are relevant to multi-blade rip sawing machines as defined, herein after referred to as machines, designed to cut solid wood, chipboard, fibreboard, plywood and also these materials where they are covered with plastic edging and/or plastic/light alloy laminates. This European Standard does not apply to machines with vertical roller feed or vertical chain conveyor feed or machines designed to make the first rip cut on a log. For Computer Numerically Controlled machines (CNC) this European Standard does not cover hazards related to electromagnetic compatibility (EMC). This European Standard is primarily directed at machines which are manufactured after the date of issue of this European Standard.