THE MEANING OF THE CE MARKING
____________________________________________
A number of our customers are asking what the CE mark means in Ontario.
The CE mark means nothing from an approval point of view. The only acceptable approval marks are shown in the latest edition of Electrical Inspection Bulletin 2-7-11.
As background for our customers the following information may help them understand what the CE mark means:
CE marking is a short form for the French words: Conformité Européenne
The CE marking indicates conformance to all applicable safety directives (standards) at the time of entry to the European Union (EU). All that is required is a "manufacturer's declaration" that the product is in compliance.
This started on January 1, 1995.
The CE marking is accepted by 15 countries. (Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, Sweden and the United Kingdom).
Why do the above 15 member countries conform and put the CE mark on?
Products cannot legally be supplied into the European Union.
Products can be withdrawn if previously placed on the market.
Could result in imprisonment and/or fine .
Member states (countries) under legal obligation to implement.
If a CE mark is applied, then a "Technical File" should exist.
The technical file should have the following information:
Overall drawing of the machinery together with a drawing of the control circuits.
Full detailed drawings, test results, etc.
A list of the standards and other technical specifications used in the design of the machinery.
Methods adopted to eliminate hazards.
Any technical report or certificate obtained from a competent body or laboratory.
A list of harmonized standards and a technical report giving the results of tests.
A copy of the instructions for the machinery.
Tony Moscioni
