Introduction
CE marking is a certification mark that indicates conformity with health, safety, and environmental protection standards for products sold within the European Economic Area (EEA). But what does CE actually stand for and what does it mean for manufacturers and consumers?
What Does CE Stand For?
CE stands for Conformité Européenne, which is the French phrase for European Conformity. It signifies that a product complies with the essential requirements of relevant European directives that apply to that specific product category.
Who Needs CE Marking?
Any manufacturer who wants to sell their products in the EEA must affix the CE marking. This includes products made within the EEA, as well as those imported from outside.
How to Obtain CE Marking?
Manufacturers need to conduct a conformity assessment to determine if their product meets the necessary requirements. This may involve testing, documentation, and certification by a notified body.
Benefits of CE Marking
- Access to the EEA market
- Enhanced product credibility and trust
- Compliance with legal obligations
Case Studies
Many companies have faced legal consequences for selling non-compliant products without CE marking. For example, in 2019, a UK-based company was fined for selling toys without the required CE marking, which posed a safety risk to children.
Statistics
According to a survey, 78% of consumers in the EEA prefer to purchase products with CE marking, as it gives them confidence in the quality and safety of the products.
