Test seals & CE marking

Accredited testing laboratories such as Intertek, also known as notified bodies, play an important role in the testing and certification of products. These laboratories are authorised to test products according to the legally defined specifications and in accordance with standard or directive requirements.

One mark to look out for on tested products is the "type tested" mark. This voluntary mark confirms that the product in question meets the requirements of the product standards and testing requirements listed in the certificate. It shows the consumer that the product has been extensively tested in an accredited testing laboratory and meets the required safety and health standards.

The certificates associated with the "type tested" mark are usually valid for 5 years. The mark guarantees that the product meets the specified requirements and is therefore safe and reliable.

The tests and certifications are carried out independently and neutrally in accredited test laboratories. They are based on international and national standards and thus ensure an objective evaluation of the products. Consumers can rely on the "type tested" mark and be sure that the corresponding product meets the required quality standards.

The GS mark is a voluntary test mark. The legal basis for the GS mark is the Product Safety Act (ProdSG). A body independent of the manufacturer ("GS body") confirms that a product complies with the health and safety regulations.

Products with the GS mark must be ready for use. In any case, testing by an independent body is required, and this body must also have the appropriate authority to do so. The GS mark is only awarded by a GS body after the product has passed the test.

Control measures are carried out, and the testing and certification body ensures that only products that conform to the tested type are placed on the market.

Misuse of the GS mark is published by the GS body. The certificate for a GS mark is valid for a maximum of 5 years.

Further information (DE):

http://www.baua.de/de/Produktsicherheit/Produktinformationen/GS-Pruefstellen.html

https://www.zls-muenchen.bayern.de/stellen/gs_stellen/index.htm

The legal basis for CE marking is formed by EU regulations and EU directives. Products that fall under a corresponding legal basis must bear the CE marking. The manufacturer thus declares on his own responsibility that the product complies with the requirements of EU legislation.

As a rule, no testing by an independent body (testing institute) is required. Testing is only mandatory if it is provided for in the relevant EU legislation, e.g. according to the Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC, Annex IV, if no harmonised standards are available, in the case of machinery for lifting persons or persons and goods where there is a risk of a fall from a height of more than 3 m.

As a rule, no control measures are carried out by an independent body. The validity of inspection certificates is regulated differently. A time limit is not always regulated. Newer EU directives now specify time limits.

Misuse is sometimes published in the database of the market surveillance authorities. The Machinery Directive has set the maximum period of validity of EU type examination certificates at 5 years.

Further information (DE & EN):

https://www.din.de/de/neuer-inhalt/wdc-beuth:din21:328699610

CE marking - EU regulations, issuing the certificate - Your Europe (europa.eu)

The "type tested" and GS marks are awarded by independent testing bodies and confirm that a product meets certain standards. The CE mark, on the other hand, is affixed by the manufacturer itself and states that the product complies with European directives on safety, health and environmental protection and can be traded throughout the EU.