What is the CE Mark?

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The CE Marking is a symbol that indicates a product complies with the "essential requirements" of the European laws or Directives (directives are the mechanism by which European-wide legislation is enacted). It indicates conformity to the legal requirements of the European Union (EU) Directive with respect to safety, health, environment, and consumer protection.

The CE Markings Directive (93/68EEC) was adopted on 07-22-1993. The CE-Directive gives a detailed description of the initials "CE" and the ways that conformity may be acquired. All products offered for sale within the entire EU must have the mark or they cannot be sold.

The CE mark provides a visible declaration by the manufacturer that the product complies with all applicable Directives (there may be more than one applicable Directive). The conformity of the product may be proven by following a testing and/or certification procedure as outlined in the Directive technical requirements

The mark is affixed to the product/packaging/manuals by the manufacturer after demonstrating compliance.

What's required:

Determine which Directives apply to the product. More than one may apply.
Identify which Harmonized European Standards apply to the product.
Subject the product to tests as specified in the applicable Standards by selecting an independent test facility, such as G&M Compliance Laboratory.
Prepare a Technical File verifying proper testing and product compliance.
Prepare a Declaration of Conformity (DOC) including a listing of Directives and Standards that the product conforms to.
Affix the CE Marking to the product.

More information: EOTC, Cenelec

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