The Department for Business and Trade announces the extension of CE mark recognition for businesses

BY:

Niamh O'Connor
3 August 2023

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The Department for Business and Trade (DBT) has, on 01 August 2023, announced its intention to indefinitely extend the use of CE marking for businesses, applying to 18 regulations owned by DBT.

The updates apply to the 18 regulations under the Department for Business and Trade (DBT):



  • toys
  • pyrotechnics
  • recreational craft and personal watercraft
  • simple pressure vessels
  • electromagnetic compatibility
  • non-automatic weighing instruments
  • measuring instruments
  • measuring container bottles
  • lifts
  • equipment for potentially explosive atmospheres (ATEX)
  • radio equipment
  • pressure equipment
  • personal protective equipment (PPE)
  • gas appliances
  • machinery
  • equipment for use outdoors
  • aerosols
  • low voltage electrical equipment


As part of a comprehensive smarter regulation package, the UK government aims to reduce business burdens and foster economic growth by eliminating barriers and unnecessary bureaucracy. After engaging extensively with the industry, British firms can seamlessly use CE marking and UKCA, enabling a smoother and more flexible business environment.


The Business Secretary took swift action to avoid a potential cliff-edge situation in December 2024 when UKCA was scheduled for effect. This proactive intervention guarantees that businesses no longer have to deal with regulatory uncertainty and can reduce unnecessary expenses, allowing them to concentrate on fostering innovation and driving growth.


The update follows extensive engagement with industry, delivering on a key ask from businesses to ease burdens and boost growth for the UK economy.

CE marking does not mean that a product was made in the EEA, but states that the product is assessed before being placed on the market. It means the product satisfies the legislative requirements to be sold there. It also means that the manufacturer has checked that the product complies with all relevant essential requirements, such as health and safety.


For further details regarding utilising CE markings, you can access additional information on GOV.UK.



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