EU General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR) - A Summary
This summary addresses common questions about the EU General Product Safety Regulation (Regulation (EU) 2023/988), outlining its scope, requirements, and obligations for businesses:
General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR) Overview
Regulation (EU) 2023/988 (GPSR) enforces stricter safety requirements for consumer products in the EU, replacing Directive 2001/95/EC. It expands responsibilities for manufacturers, importers, distributors, fulfillment service providers, and online marketplaces.
Scope
Effective December 13, 2024, GPSR applies to all consumer products sold in the EU, both online and in stores, except for certain regulated categories (e.g., medicinal products). Fulfillment service providers and online marketplaces must ensure compliance. Some products covered by other EU regulations may be exempt.
Economic Operators & Responsibilities
The GPSR recognizes five key economic operators:
- Manufacturers: Ensure compliance, conduct risk assessments, and maintain technical documentation.
- Importers: Verify non-EU products meet EU safety standards and retain compliance documentation.
- Distributors: Confirm products have proper markings, documentation, and safety instructions.
- Authorised Representatives: Act on behalf of manufacturers or importers for technical documentation and regulatory communication.
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Fulfillment Service Providers: If no EU-based economic operator is designated, they assume legal responsibility for compliance.
Online Marketplaces & Distance Sales
Under Article 22, online marketplaces must:
- Register with the EU Safety Gate portal.
- Designate an EU point of contact.
- Comply with product safety reporting and swiftly remove unsafe products.
Online sellers must provide manufacturer and product details, safety warnings, and compliance information. Non-EU sellers must appoint an EU-based economic operator.
Risk Assessment & Compliance
Manufacturers must conduct risk assessments, document findings, and make them available to authorities. Non-compliance can lead to fines, recalls, or sales bans.
Labeling & Market Surveillance
Products must display:
- Manufacturer’s name, contact details, and trade name.
- A traceability reference (e.g., batch/serial number).
- Safety warnings in the target market’s language.
QR codes and digital labels are encouraged for additional compliance details.
Authorities will enforce compliance through inspections, reporting requirements, and penalties for violations.
EaseCert’s Services for GPSR Compliance
EaseCert provides expert support for businesses navigating GPSR compliance, including:
- Authorised Representative Services: Ensuring compliance for non-EU manufacturers.
- Risk Assessment & Compliance Consulting: Assisting with product safety evaluations.
- Technical Documentation Management: Preparing and maintaining required documents.
- Regulatory Compliance Support: Advising on GPSR requirements and related EU laws.
- Market Access & Certification: Helping businesses meet EU product safety standards.
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Traceability & Labeling Guidance: Ensuring proper documentation and labeling for compliance.
Learn More About GPSR: