CE marking
The CE marking, derived from the French term “Conformité Européenne” (European Conformity), is a symbol that is affixed to products to indicate compliance with EU directives on safety, health and environmental protection. Here are some important aspects of the CE marking:
- Purpose and meaning: the CE marking was created to ensure the free movement of goods within the European Community by providing a single set of rules for market access. Products bearing the CE marking may be freely traded in all EU member states without additional testing or approval.
- EU directives and conformity requirements: According to EU directives, in particular Article 95 of the EU Treaty, products must meet certain safety and health requirements in order to be CE marked. These requirements are defined as minimum standards and must not be undercut. Manufacturers must issue a declaration of conformity and, if necessary, have an independent test carried out to prove compliance with the directives.
- Marketability within the EU: A product may only be placed on the market within the EU if it complies with the provisions of the EU directives and bears the required CE marking. The CE marking therefore serves as proof that a product complies with the applicable standards and can be used safely.
The CE marking plays a central role in the European single market by facilitating the free movement of goods and at the same time ensuring the protection of consumers and the environment. By complying with EU directives and marking products correctly with the CE symbol, manufacturers can increase consumer confidence and provide access to a wider market within the EU.