CE Marketing
A CE marking is mandatory for virtually all machines placed on the market within the European Union. With this marking, the manufacturer declares that the machine complies with applicable European laws and regulations regarding safety, health, and the environment. The CE marking is therefore not a quality label, but a legal declaration of conformity by the manufacturer.
Before a CE marking may be affixed, the manufacturer must demonstrate that the machine complies with the essential health and safety requirements set forth in the Machinery Directive and—as of January 20, 2027—the Machinery Regulation. This is done, among other things, by conducting a risk assessment, compiling a technical file, and drafting an EU Declaration of Conformity.
For machinery manufacturers, the CE certification process typically consists of the following steps:
- determine which laws and regulations apply;
- conducting a risk assessment;
- implementing appropriate safety measures;
- preparing a technical dossier;
- drafting a user manual;
- drafting an EU declaration of conformity;
- applying the CE marking.
CE marking does not apply only to new machines. A new conformity assessment and CE marking may also be required when assembling machines, importing machines from outside the EU, or making significant modifications to existing machines.
Why is CE marking important?
Proper CE marking grants access to the European market and demonstrates that a machine has been designed and manufactured in accordance with applicable safety regulations. If the CE marking is missing when it is required, the machine may not be placed on the market or put into service. Regulatory authorities may also take action if it is found that a machine does not meet the requirements.