What CE is
CE marking indicates that a product complies with the applicable EU directives or regulations and can be placed on the European Economic Area (EEA) market. It covers a wide range of regulated products including machinery, low-voltage equipment, EMC, medical devices, PPE, toys and pressure equipment. Depending on the product, conformity can be self-declared by the manufacturer or requires involvement of an EU Notified Body.
Why CE matters
- Required to legally place most regulated products on the EU and EEA market.
- Still accepted in Great Britain for most products under current UK government policy.
- Required in Northern Ireland under the Windsor Framework arrangements.
- Signals the manufacturer has assessed product safety and prepared a technical file and EU Declaration of Conformity.
Industries that use CE
Supplier selection guidance
- 1
Confirm the supplier knows exactly which EU directives or regulations apply.
- 2
Ask whether an EU Notified Body assessment is required and whether they have one engaged.
- 3
Check they can prepare an EU Declaration of Conformity and technical file in the required language.
- 4
Verify they have, or work with, an EU-based authorised representative if the manufacturer is outside the EU.
Frequently asked questions
CE is required in the EU and EEA. The UK government currently accepts CE marking for most products sold in Great Britain indefinitely; UKCA is the parallel GB route. Always confirm the latest position for your product category.
The manufacturer (or their EU authorised representative) is responsible for applying the CE mark and signing the EU Declaration of Conformity.
No. Only products covered by specific EU directives or regulations need CE marking. Products outside scope must not carry the mark.
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