Declaration of Conformity (commonly referred to as the CE certificate)
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The Declaration of Conformity (commonly known as the CE certificate) is a crucial document for any product intended for the European Union (EU) market. It signifies that the product complies with legal requirements and standards related to safety, health, and environmental protection. For manufacturers, importers, and sellers operating in the e-commerce sector, it is a key element that ensures the legal sale of products within the EU. In this article, we explain what the CE Declaration of Conformity is, which products require it, how to prepare it, and the consequences of not having one.
What is the CE Declaration of Conformity?
The CE Declaration of Conformity (Conformité Européenne) is a document confirming that a product intended for the EU market meets all applicable legal requirements and technical standards of the European Union. The CE mark on a product is proof that the manufacturer or importer has carried out the appropriate conformity assessment procedures and that the product is safe, healthy, and environmentally friendly.
The CE symbol is not just a label—it is a commitment by the manufacturer to comply with EU regulations. The Declaration of Conformity is issued by the manufacturer or an authorized representative who can sign the document on behalf of the manufacturer if the latter is based outside the EU.
Which products require a CE Declaration of Conformity?
The CE Declaration of Conformity is mandatory for a wide range of products introduced to the EU market. Regulations specify which products must carry this document.
Common categories include:
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Electronics and electrical equipment – All kinds of electric and electronic devices such as household appliances, phones, computers, and audiovisual equipment.
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Machinery and equipment – Industrial equipment, production machines, forklifts, mechanical devices.
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Toys – Products intended for children such as toys, games, and accessories that may pose health risks.
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Construction products – Items related to construction, such as building materials, windows, doors, and pipes.
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Medical devices – Medical equipment such as blood pressure monitors, thermometers, and respiratory devices.
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Personal protective equipment – Gear and accessories used to protect health and safety in the workplace, such as helmets, gloves, and protective clothing.
The CE Declaration of Conformity is also required for other products that may pose a risk to health, safety, or the environment. These products must meet specific standards to be legally sold in the EU.
What information should the CE Declaration of Conformity include?
The CE Declaration of Conformity must include a range of essential information that enables identification of the manufacturer and the product, as well as confirmation that the product meets the requirements of applicable standards and directives. The main elements include:
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Manufacturer identification:
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Full name and address of the manufacturer or their representative in the EU.
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If the manufacturer is based outside the EU, an EU-based representative must be designated.
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Product description:
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Product name, catalog number, type, model, serial number, or other identifying details.
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List of applicable directives:
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Reference to EU directives relevant to the product. Examples include Directive 2006/42/EC on machinery, Directive 2014/53/EU on radio equipment, or Directive 2014/30/EU on electromagnetic compatibility.
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Reference to standards and regulations:
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Indication of the technical standards met by the product, such as ISO or EN standards. This confirms the product has undergone required conformity testing.
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Information on conducted testing:
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Results from tests and studies confirming compliance with applicable standards and directives. This may include lab test reports.
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Signature of the responsible person:
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Signature of the authorized person responsible for issuing the declaration, usually a representative of the manufacturer or their EU-based agent.
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Date of issue:
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The date the declaration was issued, which is important to determine when the product was introduced to the EU market.
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How to prepare the CE Declaration of Conformity?
Preparing the CE Declaration of Conformity involves several steps that must be carefully followed to legally introduce the product to the EU market in compliance with applicable regulations.
Here is the process:
1. Legal regulations analysis
Before preparing the declaration, identify which EU directives or regulations apply to your product. Consult legal advisors or EU resources to determine the correct legislation.
2. Testing and conformity assessment
Many products require testing to confirm they meet safety and quality standards. These may include laboratory assessments, electromagnetic tests, water resistance tests, strength tests, etc., depending on the product type.
3. Filling out the declaration
Once testing is complete and supporting documents are collected, fill out the CE Declaration of Conformity. Many templates are available to help with proper document preparation. Ensure all required details are included, such as product information, applicable standards, regulations, and test results.
4. Signing and issuing the document
The completed declaration must be signed by a responsible person—typically the manufacturer’s or importer’s representative in the EU. It must be issued before the product enters the market.
5. Document retention
The manufacturer or importer must keep the CE Declaration of Conformity on file for at least 10 years after the product is placed on the EU market. It must be available to market surveillance authorities upon request.
Summary
The CE Declaration of Conformity is a key document confirming that a product meets all EU requirements for safety, health, and environmental protection. For manufacturers, importers, and sellers in the EU market, it is a mandatory document that ensures legal product sales and protects consumers from unsafe goods. Preparing the declaration requires following specific procedures, conducting tests, and carefully completing documentation.
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