The Blue Guide 2022 on CE Marking

The European Commission has published the Blue Guide 2022 on CE Marking. This guide aims to improve comprehension of EU product regulations. It also facilitates the consistent application of these regulations across industries within the European market.

What is the Blue Guide 2022 on CE Marking?

The blue guide on the implementation of EU product rules, published in 2000, is one of the principal reference documents explaining in detail how to comply with the CE marking requirements. The 2022 updated version of the guide expands upon earlier versions while equally reflecting recent changes to the law, particularly the adoption of a regulation on Market Surveillance in EU countries.

Which European Union Legislations does the Blue Guide 2022 on CE Marking Cover?

This guide covers several European Union legislations. Two major EU regulations covered by this guide are:

The restriction of the use of certain hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment (EU RoHS) (Directive 2011/65/EU)
Ecodesign requirements for energy-related products (EU Ecodesign) (Directive 2009/125/EC) and all implementing regulations for particular product groups adopted under this framework directive

Notably, this guide does not cover European regulation No 1907/2006 (EU REACH) and European regulation 2019/1021 on persistent organic pollutants (EU POP).

What are the Obligations of a Manufacturer?

Any manufacturer, whether established inside or outside the European Union, placing a product on the EU market is in charge of the product conformity assessment and is subject to specific requirements. Accordingly, here are some of the manufacturer’s obligations:

The manufacturer that places the product on the market under his name or trademark must have all essential documents (including technical documentation and relevant test reports) and certificates to establish product conformity. The technical documentation purpose is to give information on the product design, manufacture, and operation.
The fabricator is accountable for keeping these records for ten years following the product release.
The producer must ensure that the product comes with guidelines and safety information as required by the relevant Union harmonization legislation and in a language that consumers and other end users can comprehend, as specified by the Member State concerned.
The manufacturer must affix the conformity marking (CE marking) to the product per the legal provisions.
In cases when a product poses a risk or is non-compliant, the manufacturer shall quickly take the corrective actions required to bring that product into compliance, including withdrawing or recalling it if necessary. Moreover, he must work with the appropriate national market surveillance authorities.

What are the Obligations of an Importer?

An importer is a natural or legal person based in the EU who introduces a product from a third country onto the EU market. Under the Union Harmonization Act, the importer has significant and well-defined obligations. These responsibilities mainly expand on the requirements that an EU-based firm must meet. Correspondingly, it is the importer’s responsibility to ensure the manufacturer has carried out his commitments correctly. Therefore, the importer plays a fundamental role in ensuring that imported goods are compliant.

What is the EU Declaration of Conformity?

The EU declaration of Conformity is the document that certifies that the product meets all relevant legislative standards. As part of the conformity assessment process, the manufacturer must draft and sign an EU Declaration of Conformity before releasing a product onto the market. Likewise, it is necessary to keep the EU Declaration of Conformity updated. The EU Declaration of Conformity must include all relevant details, such as:

The product identification number
The manufacturer’s or authorized representative’s name and address
A statement that the manufacturer is solely responsible for the declaration
A reference to harmonized standards or other technical specifications
Date of issuance of the declaration
The authorized person’s name, title, and signature

What does a Product CE Marking Signify, according to the Blue Guide 2022?

The CE marking is a significant indication (but not proof) of a product’s adherence to Eu legislation. By applying the CE marking to a product, the manufacturer certifies, on his sole responsibility, that the product complies with the appropriate Union harmonization legislation. Additionally, the producer declares that he has fulfilled the product conformity assessment procedures. Furthermore, the CE marking facilitates the free movement of goods within the EEA (European Economic Area) and Turkish markets.

What Products should Bear the CE Marking?

CE designation is mandatory for products that are under the purview of one or more of the Union harmonization acts providing for CE marking. Examples of these products are:

Electrical and electronic products
Machinery
Toys
Personal protective equipment
Lifts

What are the Rules for Affixing a CE Marking?

The CE marking affixed to a product must be visible, legible, and indelible. Except for small devices or components, it is necessary to respect the proportion of having at least 5 mm height, even by reducing or enlarging the CE logo. Under certain conditions, you can also find the CE marking on the packaging or accompanying documents.

Market Surveillance and Blue Guide 2022

National market surveillance authorities have a duty to ensure that products meet the relevant requirements. Specifically, the policy on market surveillance focuses on enforcement aspects throughout the whole life cycle of products. Protecting consumers, health and safety, the environment, and other public interests is the goal of market surveillance. Accordingly, economic operators (e.g., manufacturers, importers, etc.) must work with national market surveillance authorities and take corrective measures when necessary. In the event of a violation of statutory requirements, national market surveillance authorities have the power to impose appropriate sanctions.

Contact Enviropass if you have questions regarding environmental product compliance, the CE marking, or other Ecolabels.