EU consumers may have different preferences when it comes to the colour or brand of products such as a new laptop or a toy for their children. At the same time, they expect all products on the market to be safe.
By affixing the CE marking to a product, the manufacturer assumes full responsibility for its compliance with all safety requirements. Unfortunately, due to counterfeiting or the misuse of CE marking, there is never a 100% guarantee that a product bearing the mark is safe.
The EU has strengthened the entire system, consisting of manufacturers, importers, distributors, notified bodies, and market surveillance authorities, through the New Legislative Framework. The new legislation aims to reduce burdens on trade while ensuring a high level of safety.
Although most European manufacturers, importers, and distributors follow the rules, consumers can also play an important role in improving the safety of products:
For a consumer perspective on CE marking, please contact:
ANEC, the European consumer voice in standardisation
Avenue de Tervueren 32, Box 27
B-1040 Brussels, Belgium
Email: anec@anec.eu
www.anec.eu