The European Commission has published a clear warning about the risks of so-called voluntary or unregulated certificates.
These are documents often issued by certification bodies outside their notified scope, sometimes even with a CE mark, for products that fall under EU harmonisation legislation. Such practices are misleading — and dangerous.
Key points
Only Notified Bodies may issue certificates of compliance — and only within their specific area of notification.
Voluntary certificates are not recognised under EU law as proof of compliance. They have no value in case of checks by authorities or customs.
Exception: where specific legislation allows voluntary certification (with clear requirements).
Why this matters
It is a frequent phenomenon in the supply chain.
It is positive that the EU explicitly addresses this.
It is unfortunate that the warning was published only under the Radio Equipment Directive (RED). The message is in fact broader and belongs under the Market Surveillance Regulation (2019/1020) or even the New Legislative Framework as a whole.
ProductIP’s message
For everyone active in the non-food consumer goods supply chain for the EU/EEA (and UK): do not be misled by “certificates” that suggest compliance but have no legal basis.
Compliance must follow the procedures set by EU law — nothing less.
With ProductIP you have the market-leading web-based solution (PCMS) to manage compliance together with your supply chain — efficiently, transparently, and in line with EU law.
🔗 Source: European Commission — RED News