CE Certificate and Entry into the UK Market: Differences with the UKCA Mark
The CE mark is a key requirement for the free movement of products in the European Union market. However, following the UK’s departure from the EU (Brexit), the UKCA (UK Conformity Assessed) mark was introduced to demonstrate product conformity in the UK market.
Both marks certify that products meet safety, quality, and environmental protection standards, but their scope of validity and application processes differ.
What Are the CE and UKCA Marks?
CE Mark
The CE mark indicates that a product complies with the relevant EU directives and regulations in the European Union and the European Economic Area. This mark confirms that the product meets essential health, safety, and environmental requirements.
UKCA Mark
The UKCA mark is the UK’s conformity mark, valid in Great Britain (England, Scotland, and Wales). Northern Ireland follows different regulations, and either the CE or UKNI (UK Northern Ireland) mark is used.
Key Differences Between the CE and UKCA Marks
- Geographical Validity
- CE: European Union and European Economic Area
- UKCA: Great Britain (England, Scotland, Wales)
- Conformity Assessment Bodies
- CE: Notified Bodies authorized by the EU
- UKCA: UK Approved Bodies authorized by the UK
- Validity Status
- The CE mark can still be used in Great Britain during the transition periods.
- In the long term, the UKCA mark will become the sole valid conformity mark for the UK market.
- Labeling Requirements
- CE: The mark must appear on the product or packaging.
- UKCA: The mark may appear on the product, packaging, or instructions.
UKCA Marking Process
- Product Assessment
Determine which UK regulations apply to your product. - Technical File Preparation
Create a comprehensive technical file that includes design documents, risk analyses, test reports, and user manuals. - Conformity Assessment
Where required, have your product assessed by a UK Approved Body. - Declaration of Conformity
Prepare the official document declaring that the product meets UKCA requirements. - Labeling
Apply the UKCA mark to the product or packaging in accordance with the regulations.
Conclusion
Understanding the differences between the CE Certificate and the UKCA Mark is crucial for ensuring that products can be successfully marketed in both the EU and the UK.
- The CE mark remains valid in the EU and EEA markets.
- The UKCA mark has become mandatory in the UK market post-Brexit.
Manufacturers wishing to position their products in both European and UK markets must consider the requirements for both marks, ensuring legal compliance and boosting commercial success.
