UKCA Certificate and CE Mark: Current Conformity Requirements in the UK Market
What is the UKCA Certificate?
The UKCA (United Kingdom Conformity Assessment) mark indicates that a product complies with the applicable standards for the markets of England, Scotland, and Wales. After Brexit, the UK introduced its own conformity mark (UKCA) to replace the CE mark.
Validity of UKCA and CE Marks (Latest Information)
Initially, it was announced that the UKCA mark would become mandatory and CE would no longer be valid. However, in 2023, the UK government revised this plan.
Current situation:
- For most product groups, the CE mark remains valid indefinitely in the UK market.
- This means manufacturers can place their products on the market with either the CE mark or the UKCA mark.
- Businesses are given the freedom to choose.
Products Subject to UKCA Certification
The UKCA mark applies to many products that normally require the CE mark, including:
- Machinery
- Electrical equipment
- Pressure equipment
- Toys
- Lifts
- Construction products
UKCA & CE Situation for Medical Devices and Construction Products
- Medical devices: The UK’s MHRA (Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency) has defined transition periods. The CE mark is accepted until certain deadlines, after which the UKCA mark will become mandatory.
- Construction products: The CE mark is still accepted, but specific UKCA requirements may be introduced in the future.
Process of Obtaining a UKCA Certificate
Businesses wishing to obtain the UKCA mark must:
- Identify the applicable UK regulations for their products,
- Carry out conformity assessments,
- Prepare technical documentation.
In this process, support from Approved Bodies or consultancy firms can speed things up.
Importance of the UKCA Certificate for Businesses
- Ensures legal compliance for entry into the UK market.
- Enhances product credibility.
- Provides a competitive advantage.
- Having both CE and UKCA marks allows smooth access to both the EU and UK markets with a single production line.
Using CE and UKCA Marks Together
Many manufacturers place both CE and UKCA marks on their products. This makes it easier to sell in both EU countries and the UK with the same production line.
Frequently Asked Questions about the UKCA Certificate
In which regions is the UKCA mark valid?
→ In England, Wales, and Scotland. In Northern Ireland, CE and UK(NI) marks are subject to different rules.
Is the UKCA certificate mandatory?
→ For most products, the CE mark is accepted indefinitely. However, for some specific product groups such as medical devices, the UKCA mark will become mandatory.
Can CE and UKCA be used at the same time?
→ Yes. Manufacturers can use both marks on their products.