CE Marking in a nutshell, and how UL can help

In order to go to market in countries of the EEA (European Economic Area), many products require CE Marking. The letters “CE” are the abbreviation of the French phrase “Conformité Européene" (European Conformity). The CE Marking is a recognized symbol indicating that the product meets compliance requirements set down by European law, enabling free movement and sale of your products in the European market.

By placing the CE marking on a product, a manufacturer is declaring that a product complies with all applicable directives and regulations. Depending on the industry and country, market access requirements may vary. In general, however, the majority of national requirements are aligned with European ones, and UL can guide you through the whole process of achieving compliance.

Which industries are affected?

If your products fall under the following industries, they will most likely require a CE Marking:

• Appliances and HVAC
• Building Materials
• Wire and Cable
• Life Safety and Security
• Energy and Industrial Systems
• Lighting
• Medical / MDD / IVD*
• Toys and Juvenile Products
• Consumer Technology
• Wireless

UL has the expertise and capability to issue test reports to support CE declarations and issue the CE Certifications for all these industries and to all applicable EU directives, helping you overcome your European compliance challenges.

What are the applicable EU directives?

UL will help you identify which “New Approach” directives apply to your product. Common “New Approach” directives include:

• Radio and Telecommunications Terminal Equipment Directive 2014/53/EU
• Low Voltage Directive (LVD) 2014/35/EU
• Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive 2014/30/EU
• Construction Product Directive EU No. 305/2011
• Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC
• Restriction of Hazardous Substances in Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive 2011/65/EU
• Eco-design of energy related products directive 2009/125/EC
• Safety of toys directive 88/378/EEC
• Electrical equipment designed for use within certain voltage limits directive 73/23/EEC

What are the advantages of working with UL?

From Europe, to global: Along with the testing and reports needed to demonstrate compliance to European directives for a CE Mark, manufacturers can obtain internationally valid IEC reports and CB certificates, as well as the UL Mark, North America's most recognized and trusted mark. All in one consolidated offer.

• UL technical expertise: Draw on our extensive knowledge and experience in EN, IEC and UL standards, and the testing needed for multiple markets. Let us advise you on ways to simplify your product design and reduce the need for modifications, plus plan in advance for future projects and test programs.
• Local teamwork for reliable results: Our global reach and local commitment means we are able to find the right facility or engineer to suit your needs from our vast global resources, while accessing experts locally when needed. UL uses CB accredited labs in Europe for testing, which may help simplify future reporting for many products.

*Within the UL family of companies we provide a broad portfolio of offerings to all the Medical Device industries. This includes certification, notified body and consultancy services. In order to protect and prevent any conflict of interest, perception of conflict of interest and protection of both our Brand and our customers brands UL is unable to provide consultancy services to Notified Body or MDSAP customers. UL has processes in place to identify and manage any potential conflicts of interest and maintain impartiality. Read more about this.