With the imminent changes to all things CE and UKCA, are you up to the mark?

For many types of product, from PPE to machinery, you’ll find the CE mark on the product itself, on packaging, or on accompanying paperwork. It’s reassurance that the product has been tested to specified standards. If a particular product comes under the CE mark regulation, then reputable distributors such as ERIKS will aim to supply only those makes and models which are CE-marked.

However, there's now a new mark to look out for. 

The UKCA (UK Conformity Assessed) mark replaces the CE mark for goods sold in England, Wales and Scotland. To be sold in Northern Ireland, goods manufactured in the UK which previously had a CE mark must now have both a UKCA mark and CE mark, or a UKNI mark instead. UKCA marking came into effect on 1st January this year, but there is a transitional period until 31st December 2022. Until then, in most cases, the CE mark can still be used. All three marks mean basically the same thing: the product has been assessed and approved as meeting the necessary technical requirements and standards. This is complicated for manufacturers but much simpler for purchasers. In fact it boils down to a few simple guidelines:

In England, Scotland and Wales

• On products where it is applicable, check for the CE mark. Until 31st December 2022, these products can be supplied from old stock with a CE mark only.
• If a CE mark is applicable to a product and it doesn’t have one, then it may be new to the market. However, it should have a UKCA mark instead.
• If a CE mark is applicable, and the product has neither a CE mark nor a UKCA mark, it does not conform to the required standards..
   

In Northern Ireland

• The CE mark will continue to be used on products where it is applicable, but alongside a UKCA mark after 31st December 2022.
• If there is no CE mark on a product to which it is applicable, there should be a UKNI mark.
  
• After 31st December 2022, a CE mark on its own, or no CE or UKNI mark on a applicable product, means the product does not confirm to the required standards.

Alternatively, there’s an even simpler way to be sure you are buying items which meet the standards for quality and safety: always buy from a reputable supplier. Suppliers like ERIKS will be taking all possible steps to ensure their own supply partners meet the new conformity assessment and marking requirements.
 

So on packaging and paperwork, for peace of mind always remember to look for the ERIKS logo too.

For more information, contact your local ERIKS Service Centre, who will be happy to discuss your options.