On May 23, 2023, the new EU General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR) was published in the Official Journal of the EU. This regulation replaces the previous Product Safety Directive 2001/95/EC and brings with it numerous changes for manufacturers, importers and distributors of consumer products. In this article, we explain what the GPSR means, what changes it brings and how companies can prepare for it.

1. aim and background of the GPSR

The GPSR aims to improve product safety in the European Union. With increasing digitalization and the growth of online trade, new challenges have arisen that the previous directives could no longer fully cover. The regulation takes these developments into account and ensures that consumers in the EU can buy safer products.

Why was the GPSR introduced?

  • Adapting to the digital market: More and more products, especially networked devices, are available online.
  • Ensuring consumer protection: New technologies such as AI require updated safety standards.
  • Improving traceability: Consumers and authorities should be able to find out more quickly where a product comes from and whether it is safe.

2. important changes due to the GPSR

The new regulation brings with it numerous changes that affect companies throughout the supply chain. Here are the most important changes:

a) Extended security requirements for digital products

The GPSR places particular emphasis on the security of connected products, such as smart home devices or wearables. Manufacturers must ensure that:

  • security updates are provided to minimize cyber risks.
  • products are developed in such a way that they pose no risks to consumers - not even through software errors or security vulnerabilities.

b) New obligations for online marketplaces

The regulation strengthens the responsibility of online platforms. They must ensure that:

  • Only products that comply with EU safety requirements are listed.
  • consumers are clearly informed who the manufacturer or importer of a product is.
  • recall campaigns can be implemented quickly and efficiently.

c) Improving traceability

Companies must ensure that every product can be traced along the supply chain. This includes:

  • Clear labeling and product information.
  • The storage of relevant data on manufacturers, importers and dealers for at least 10 years.

d) Stricter regulations for recalls

The GPSR specifies how product recalls must be organized and communicated. Consumers must be able to recognize more easily whether a product is unsafe and receive instructions on how to return or replace it.

3. effects on companies

The new regulation affects all players along the supply chain - from manufacturers and importers to retailers and online platforms.

a) Requirements for manufacturers

  • Manufacturers must ensure that their products comply with the new safety standards.
  • Security analyses must be carried out and potential risks taken into account - both physical dangers and digital threats such as cyber attacks.
  • All products must be clearly labeled, including the name and address of the manufacturer.

b) Requirements for importers

Importers are responsible for ensuring that products from non-EU countries comply with EU safety standards. They must:

  • Check and provide technical documentation.
  • Ensure that safety information is available in the local language.

c) Requirements for dealers

Retailers must ensure that the products they sell do not pose a hazard. This includes:

  • Checking product labeling and safety information.
  • Compliance with traceability requirements.

d) Responsibility of online marketplaces

Online platforms such as Amazon or eBay are under greater obligation. They must ensure that consumers can easily recognize whether a product is safe and by whom it is offered.

4. advantages for consumers

The GPSR strengthens consumer protection in the EU on several levels:

  • Greater product safety: stricter controls and more stringent requirements will reduce the number of unsafe products on the market.
  • Transparency: Consumers can more easily understand who is behind a product.
  • Better recalls: In the event of a dangerous product, consumers can be informed more quickly and recalls can be carried out more efficiently.

5. transitional periods and implementation

The GPSR has officially been in force since May 23, 2023. However, companies have time to adapt to the new requirements. The regulation will be mandatory for all products on the EU market from December 13, 2024.

6. preparation steps for companies

Companies should take action now to meet the requirements of the GPSR. Here are some practical tips:

  1. Check products: Ensure that all products comply with the new safety requirements.
  2. Adapt technical documentation: Ensure that all necessary information is clear and complete.
  3. Analyze the supply chain: Work closely with manufacturers, importers and distributors to ensure traceability.
  4. Conduct training courses: Inform your employees about the new requirements and how they can be implemented.
  5. Take digital security precautions: Cybersecurity measures must be implemented for networked products.

7 Conclusion: An important step for product safety

The new Product Safety Regulation (GPSR) represents a significant further development of consumer protection in the EU. It helps to ensure that products are safer, recalls are carried out more efficiently and consumers are better informed.

However, the GPSR also represents a challenge for companies. Compliance with the new requirements requires careful planning and adaptation of internal processes. But with early preparation, companies can not only minimize legal risks, but also strengthen the trust of their customers.

Stay informed: Attend our training courses and information events to be well prepared for the GPSR.

 

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Product Safety Regulation

Implementing ordinance for the Product Safety Ordinance