CE marking
For safe electrical products for the European market
Many product groups entering the European Union market must bear the CE marking. A CE marking indicates that the products have been tested according to CE marking guidelines and meet all safety requirements under EU legislation. The specific safety requirements a product must meet depend on the type of product and the corresponding EU specifications. DEKRA has years of experience testing electrical products against various requirements.
DEKRA tests your electrical products against CE requirements. This includes CE marking for machines, household appliances, lighting, batteries, charging stations, sockets, and cables.
What is a CE marking?
The CE marking is, as the name suggests, not a certificate but a marking. It indicates that a product meets the essential health, safety, and environmental requirements applicable within the EEA, the European Economic Area. The EEA includes the member states of the European Union, Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway. The CE marking is mandatory for many products traded within the EEA. The absence of a CE marking has legal consequences.
The purpose of the CE marking is to promote the free movement of goods within the EEA. Additionally, the CE marking contributes to the harmonization of product safety and health legislation among the EEA countries.
What are the CE marking guidelines?
1. LVD (Low Voltage Directive) 2014/35/EU
This directive covers health and safety risks of electrical equipment with 50 to 1000 volts AC and 75 to 1500 volts DC.
2. EMC (Electro Magnetic Compatibility) 2014/30/EU
3. RoHS/REACH (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) 2015/863 and 1907/2006/EU
4. ErP (Energy-Related Products) 2009/125/EC
5. RED (Radio Equipment Directive)
Who is responsible for CE testing?
The responsibility for ensuring a product meets CE marking requirements usually lies with the manufacturer. You must assess the products and report the test results. You then draw up and sign the EU Declaration of Conformity. The final step is to affix the CE marking to your product yourself.
National authorities conduct random checks to ensure manufacturers have properly assessed the products. Not every manufacturer has the knowledge or resources to perform tests themselves. To ensure your product meets all the requirements, you can enlist DEKRA to conduct the product tests.
When is a CE marking not enough?
A CE marking is generally only valid within the EEA (European Economic Area). Other countries have their own certification requirements, which may differ from the CE marking requirements. However, some countries outside the EEA may adopt or reference European standards and guidelines in their regulations. This can mean that products already CE-marked may gain easier access to these markets.
Do you want to enter markets outside the EEA with your product? Use our Global Market Access services. DEKRA experts are knowledgeable about local laws and regulations in markets worldwide. With our extensive testing facilities, we can provide your products with the correct test reports.
Additionally, a CE marking is not enough for some products, such as certain medical devices. These products must meet additional safety requirements and need a CE certificate to be marketed. You must then enlist an independent and competent party to assess your products. This party is a notified body. DEKRA Certification B.V. is authorized as a notified body to issue CE certificates.
Questions about CE marking?
Do you have any questions about testing your products? Or are you curious about the possibilities DEKRA can offer you? Feel free to contact one of our experts. We are happy to support you throughout the process.