What is the CE marking?
The CE marking is a graphical symbol that must be affixed to certain types of products by the manufacturer, certifying compliance with essential requirements for marketing and use within the European Union (EU) established in the so-called "New Approach Directives."
The CE marking indicates that the product complies with all community provisions governing its use: from design, manufacturing, market entry, product commissioning to disposal.
The CE marking is mandatory for the following products:
- Electrical and electronic equipment.
- Machinery.
- Medical devices.
- Toys.
- Personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Pressure equipment.
- Construction products.
- Chemical products.
- Food products.
To obtain the CE marking, the manufacturer must follow a procedure that includes the following steps:
- Conformity assessment: The manufacturer must assess whether the product complies with the essential requirements set out in the applicable directive.
- Preparation of the declaration of conformity: The manufacturer must prepare a declaration of conformity attesting to the product's compliance with the essential requirements.
- Affixing the CE marking: The manufacturer must affix the CE marking to the product.
The CE marking is an essential tool for consumer protection and workplace safety. It ensures that products placed on the EU market comply with essential requirements regarding safety, health, and environmental protection.