In 2013, it was announced by the European Commission that all bathroom products covered by Harmonised European Standards are to have the CE mark attached to the product or its packaging.
CE Marking illustrates a product’s compliance with European legislation and enables its free movement within the European Market. It is not a quality mark but does indicate that the product is ‘fit for purpose.’
When a manufacturer affixes the CE marking to a product, it means they are assuring their customer that the performance of the product they are selling is the same as what they are declaring and that it has been obtained using the right European technical specification, as detailed in the European Construction Products Regulation (CPR).
The CPR also requires manufacturers and importers to ensure their products performance is traceable, and to retain technical documentation for a period of 10 years after the product has been sold.
Where a retailer or merchant badges the product in their own label, they are deemed to be the manufacturer and compliance with CE Marking must be adhered to.
Failure to comply with any aspect of the CPR can lead to manufacturers being forced into taking corrective actions or to withdraw or recall the product.
To aid with making sure you comply, the European Commission has issued an easy to understand guide. To make it easier, the BMA is hosting a copy on its website.
For the step by step guide to CE Marking, please visit the Industry Standards section of the BMA website at: www.bathroom-association.org.uk/about-us/industry-standards
