CE marking

The CE marking indicates that the manufacturer or authorised representative of the product guarantees that the product conforms to the essential requirements set out in the applicable EU directives and regulations.

Products equipped with a CE marking can move freely within the entire EU.

The marking is affixed to the product by the manufacturer or its authorised representative.

The CE marking is not issued by an authority or third party.

Products that require the CE marking include:

• toys
• machinery
• lifts
• electrical appliances
• personal protective equipment
• certain construction products
• gas equipment
• measuring instruments.

The CE marking can only be affixed to products that require a CE marking in accordance with applicable product legislation. If the CE marking is used inappropriately, the authorities supervising the products may take action.

If a product is missing the statutory CE marking, or if the marking does not comply with the requirements, the authorities may order the product to be removed from the market. Inappropriate use of the CE marking is also punishable (Act on Violations Concerning CE Markings 187/2010).

A CE marking is not a general safety label

A CE marking is not

• a general safety label
• a guarantee that a product is of particularly high quality or easy to use
• a way of rating products.

In addition to the CE marking, some products must show other required labels or markings. These are listed under product-specific requirements.

Certain products are assessed by a notified body before the CE marking is affixed to the product

In general, a CE marking can be affixed to a product without the use of a testing or inspection facility.

However, in certain product categories, the product’s compliance with requirements must be assessed by a notified body before a CE marking can be affixed to it. The manufacturer is responsible for this task. For example, a product may be assessed in terms of the product itself and its characteristics, the production process, and quality control. Only after a successful assessment may the manufacturer draw up a manufacturer's declaration of conformity or, in certain product categories, a declaration of performance, and affix a CE marking to the product.
 
Products that are required to be assessed for compliance by a notified body include:

• gas operated domestic appliances
• certain machinery, such as vehicle lifting equipment and chainsaws
• personal protective equipment such as riding, cycling and skiing helmets and respiratory protective devices
• lifts
• measuring instruments
• certain construction products.