Your Guide to EU General Product Safety Regulation Compliance
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The new EU General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR) (EU 2023/988) came into effect on December 13, 2024, replacing the outdated Product Safety Directive (2001/95/EC). This regulation introduces important changes aimed at improving product safety across the EU, especially for online sales. The GPSR applies to manufacturers, importers, distributors, and exporters equally, ensuring a harmonized framework for all economic operators.
Why Was the GPSR Introduced?
Reform was needed due to rising alerts on unsafe products. According to Safety Gate, over 2,200 alerts were issued in early 2024 alone. About 31% of these alerts involved products sold online, with common hazards including chemical risks, choking, and fire hazards. The GPSR ensures that online and offline sales meet the same standards.
Key Changes Introduced by the GPSR
1. New Definition of "Safe Product"
The GPSR broadens what constitutes a safe product, including:
- Cybersecurity
- Product traceability and identification
- Safety warnings and instructions
- Disposal information
2. EU-Based Responsible Person Requirement
All businesses placing products on the EU market must appoint an EU-based Responsible Person. This individual ensures compliance and serves as a contact for authorities and consumers.
Required information:
- Name or company name
- Postal address
- Email or telephone number
Where must this appear?
Details must be clearly and permanently displayed on the product, packaging, or accompanying documentation.
Who qualifies?
An importer, distributor, or EU-based representative can act as the Responsible Person.
3. Equal Safety Standards for Online and Offline Sales
Products sold online must comply with the same standards as those in stores, including appropriate warnings, instructions, and identification.
Obligations for platforms:
- Trader verification: Ensure sellers meet EU legal obligations.
- Product monitoring: Remove non-compliant products swiftly.
- Safety Gate registration: Register with the EU Safety Gate portal.
- Liability: Platforms acting as brokers may be liable if monitoring is inadequate.
4. Clear Obligations for Economic Operators
- Proper storage: Maintain compliant storage conditions with documentation.
- Information sharing: Provide technical files and safety data on request.
- Notification duty: Notify authorities immediately of any safety risks and take corrective actions.
How GPSR Solutions Can Support You
GPSR Solutions provides a full range of services to help you comply with EU requirements:
1. Risk Assessment
We perform detailed risk analyses to identify hazards and recommend mitigation actions to comply with the GPSR.
2. Product Certification
Guidance through certification, conformity assessments, and technical documentation preparation.
3. Labelling Review
Verification of safety warnings, instructions, and markings in accordance with EU requirements.
4. Traceability and Documentation
Preparation and storage of all required technical documentation for EU compliance and market surveillance requests.
5. Responsible Person Service
We act as your EU Responsible Person, providing an official point of contact for EU market surveillance authorities.
6. Safety Gate Registration Support
We help online sellers register with the EU Safety Gate Online Marketplace Registration Module.
The Business Opportunity
GPSR compliance strengthens consumer trust, improves your brand reputation, and ensures legal market access. Avoid recalls, penalties, and protect your position in the EU market.
GPSR Solutions makes GPSR compliance simple and efficient. Contact us to get started and maintain your EU market access.
Useful Links:
GPSR Requirements, EU Responsible Person, Technical File, Risk Analysis, Label Template, EU Safety Gate Registration, GPSR Certification Plans & Pricing, Subscription Policy