What is CE Marking?

The CE Marking is the manufacturer's declaration, showing compliance with all applicable directives. For most products sold in the EU, the use of the CE Marking and a Declaration of Conformity are mandatory. With the exception of some high-risk products, most products can be self- assessed by the manufacturer to meet the Essential Requirements. While the CE Marking does permit a product's access to the EU, it is not an approval mark, certification or quality mark; nor is it intended to be simply a marketing tool. CE is a "Marking" that is only a declaration of the supplier's own responsibility. While enabling products to be placed on the European market, it allows for the free movement of goods and permits the withdrawal of non-conforming products - but no more. The CE Marking should not be confused with other approval marks or certifications issued by an EU-accredited certification body. As stated in the European Commission's Guide to the Implementation of Community Harmonization Directives: "Manufacturers are responsible for ensuring that the products they place on the market meet all relevant regulations. Where these regulations do not require mandatory certification, manufacturers often seek voluntary certification to assure themselves that their products do meet the requirements set by law."

The main goals of the CE Marking are to:

• indicate a product's conformity with the "essential requirements" of the directives
• allow products to be "placed on the market"
• ensure the "free movement of goods"
• allow the "withdrawal of non-conforming products" by customs and enforcement authorities

• is not a mark or certification or approval issued by a third party,
• is not simply a marketing or promotional tool
• is not a quality mark
• is not for components*

*(Although there are some exceptions, the vast majority of components do not need CE Marking.) Get the TÜV Rheinland Competitive Advantage The CE Marking shows compliance to the essential requirements and quality systems requirements specified in the directives, but not to more stringent safety requirements. In time, most products will bear the CE Marking. To be competitive, manufacturers can affix TÜV Rheinland test marks (i.e., GS, EMC, Ergonomic Services, Bauart, GM and T-Mark) in conjunction with the CE Marking on their products (except for products under the MDD and AIMDD).