Please keep in mind that CE marking does not show any evidence of third-party testing and shouldn't be mixed up with any of our certification marks.
Some of the directives that deal with safety criteria are known as product directives. These directives span a series of product areas, covering everything from toys to computers and machinery. Remember, all directives dealing with safety require products to be CE marked before they can be marketed within the EU.
Examples of directives concerning different types of electrical products:
- The Low voltage Directive- LVD
- The EMC Directive
- The R&TTE Directive
- The Medical Devices Directive - MDD
- The Machinery Directive - MD
- The Motor Vehicle Directive
Essential requirements that always have to be met:
As a manufacturer you must always provide proper documentation as a basis for CE marking, documentation that proves the product meets the requirements of the directive. This documentation should include:
- "Declaration of conformity" which means that you, as a manufacturer , declare that your product fulfills the requirements.
- A "Technical File", which must include a test report for the product, design drawings and instructions for use. Some directives also demand a risk analysis.
The documents must be available to authorities, even after the manufacture has ceased (usually for 10 years).
What does CE marking say about your products?
When you affix a CE marking to your product this means that you certify for the authorities that the product meets the EU safety requirements.
CE marking does not give the consumer any information, as it says nothing about the quality of the product.
Market surveillance
The responsible authority in each EU country is obliged to perform market surveillance covering documentation and equipment. Any shortcomings detected in connection with market surveillance will lead to sanctions such as warning advertisements, sales bans, recovery, fines or imprisonment. In the case of damage arising owing to product defect, sanctions will be taken in accordance with the Product Liability Act.
Intertek can help you place your products on the market easily and quickly
Intertek's various tests automatically provide you with a complete set of documentation for CE marking your product. This is a simple procedure. Give us a call and we'll put your product through the entire process, all at the same time. This cuts down time to market introduction.
CE marking for industrial appliances - click here for more information.