Guide to application of the directive 89/686/EEC on Personal Protective Equipment - Definitions
In general terms, the following definitions are considered acceptable.
Placing on the market - the first making available on the Community market of an individual product with a view to distribution and/or use, whether in return of payment or free of charge.
Putting into service - takes place at the moment of the first use within the Community by the end user.
Manufacturer - the natural or legal person, who:
- designs and/or manufactures a product covered by the Directive, or who has a PPE designed and/or manufactured with view to its placing on the market or for his own professional or private use, under his own name or trademark; or who:
- places a PPE on the market and/or puts it into service, under his own name or trademark.
The manufacturer bears responsibility for:
- undertaking an analysis to conclude if his product is subject to the PPE Directive and which requirements apply;
- design and construction of the PPE in accordance with the Basic Health and Safety Requirements (BHSR) laid down in the Directive;
- following the procedures for the assessment of the conformity of the product with the BHSR laid down in the Directive;
- providing marking and instructions for safe use, maintenance etc.
The manufacturer has sole and ultimate responsibility for the conformity of the PPE to this and other applicable directives. He is required to have a knowledge about the design and construction of the product to be able to declare such conformity in respect of all applicable provisions and requirements of the relevant directives.
Authorised representative - Any natural or legal person established within the Community who has received a mandate from the manufacturer to act on his behalf for specified tasks with regard to the latter's responsibilities under the Directive. The mandate should be written and should specify which obligations of the manufacturer can be conferred upon the authorised representative.
