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CE Marking

European conformity marking confirming a product meets applicable EU harmonization legislation – frequently required in public tenders.

What is CE Marking?

CE Marking (Conformité Européenne) is a European conformity marking confirming that a product complies with applicable EU harmonization legislation. In public procurement, CE marking is frequently a mandatory minimum requirement.

Legal Framework

CE marking is governed by Regulation (EC) No. 765/2008 and the German Product Safety Act. In procurement, § 31 VgV and EU Directive 2014/24/EU Art. 62 govern references to quality marks.

CE-Mandatory Product Categories

  • Machinery Directive: Machines, systems
  • Construction Products Regulation: Building products
  • Medical Devices Regulation: Medical products
  • Low Voltage Directive: Electrical equipment
  • PPE Regulation: Personal protective equipment

CE Marking in Tenders

  • Minimum requirement: Product must be CE marked with declaration of conformity
  • Consequences of absence: Bid exclusion, liability risk

Conformity Assessment Modules

Ranging from Module A (self-declaration) to Module H (comprehensive quality assurance with notified body).

Common Mistakes

  1. Requiring CE for non-mandatory products
  2. Missing equivalence clause
  3. Confusing CE with GS mark
  4. Not requesting the declaration of conformity

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