UKCA and CE Marking rules are changing!

The government has announced that CE Marking will be recognised indefinitely. What does this mean for you?!

August 22, 2023

UKCA / CE Marking: What has happened?

As of the 1st of August 2023, the UK Government has announced that they will indefinitely recognise CE markings on all products regulated by the Department for Business (DBT) sold in the UK. This is a complete reversal from their earlier decision to replace CE markings with UKCA markings, where they had required businesses to make the switch by December 31, 2024.

The UK Government has stated that this development is intended to “provide businesses with flexibility and choice” and “prevent a cliff-edge moment” from occurring when UKCA marking was due to become mandatory.

Business Minister, Kevin Hollinrake:
” The Government is tackling red tape, cutting burdens for business, and creating certainty for firms – we have listened to industry, and we are taking action to deliver. By extending CE marking use across the UK, firms can focus their time and money on creating jobs and growing the economy.”

Who do these changes affect?

If you’re a manufacturer that produces any of the following 18 product types regulated by the DBT, you no longer need to acquire the new UKCA Marking:

  • Machinery
  • Low-voltage electrical equipment
  • Pyrotechnics
  • Recreational craft and personal watercraft
  • Simple pressure vessels
  • Electromagnetic compatibility
  • Non-automatic weighing instruments
  • Measuring instruments
  • Measuring container bottles
  • Lifts
  • Equipment for potentially explosive atmospheres (ATEX)
  • Radio equipment
  • Pressure equipment
  • Personal protective equipment (PPE)
  • Gas appliances
  • Equipment for use outdoors
  • Aerosols
  • Toys

Essentially, you are now able to continue using your CE Marking with the confidence that this will be recognised indefinitely in both the UK and Europe marketplaces.

What does the future hold for UKCA Marking?

Whilst we’re sure this change comes as a significant relief for business owners and manufacturers, who didn’t need the added complexity of transitioning to UKCA markings and complying with new regulations; it also raises questions about the future role of UKCA Marking.

As it stands currently, it appears that manufacturers will have the choice to acquire either UKCA Marking (which will only be recognised within Great Britain) or CE Marking (which is recognised across Europe, too).

However, Health & Safety regulations are continually changing, so as soon as this is clarified by the government, the pm Connections team will keep you updated.

Can pm Connections help my business become CE or UKCA Marked?

Yes! Whether you’re unsure how to attain CE Marking or UKCA Marking on your machinery – we can help you in what is often a very lengthy and time-consuming process.  Take the hassle away from interpreting the latest government guidelines and requirements by working with our team of professionals.

Alternatively, if you’re uncertain about how this latest update impacts your business, feel free to contact us on 01925 649 818 for guidance.

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