New machine and civil liability
New machine delivered. It was a bargain, couldn't pass up an opportunity like that. Checked the CE mark? No, you say, that's just a sticker. Make no mistake, a CE mark is not just a sticker. It is a European quality guarantee that we would like to look at in a little more detail.
What is a CE mark?
The CE mark, introduced in 1993, indicates the manufacturer's compliance with all foreseen obligations. It makes him responsible for its circulation in the European Economic Area (EEA). The marking shows that the machine has been evaluated and complies with European requirements on safety, health and environmental protection. The marking is valid for machinery manufactured in the EEA and for machinery manufactured outside it and subsequently placed on the market in the EEA.
How do you recognize the CE mark?
The CE marking must consist of the letters "CE", which must be of equal height (at least 5 mm). A manufacturer may enlarge or reduce the CE marking, observing the proportions and always clearly visible and legible on the machine. Nevertheless, just the sticker on the machine is not enough. That would be overly simplistic.
A valid CE declaration includes the following items:
1. CE label on the cabinet
- Machine name, type & description
- Year built - Power
- Manufacturer with name and address
- CE marking (CE logo)
2. CE Declaration of Conformity
- Indication of standards and guidelines followed
- Same data as on the CE label
- Name of person in charge
3. Only the company name or department is not valid
- Signature of responsible person
- Technical construction file
- Manual in the official EU language(s) of the respective member state
Why is CE marking so important?
So you read it, the CE declaration is much more that just the shiny sticker on your machine. The CE mark indicates who is responsible. Who is civilly liable when something goes wrong. If that sticker is missing, the consequences for you as a business owner can be dire. You are then liable as the manager. It is therefore worthwhile to work with a reliable partner who has the necessary documentation.
In conclusion. Don't get caught by China Export's similar CE logo. Ingenious, yes, but neither the logo nor the machine comply with European directives.