Do you sell non-food products to consumers in the EU or Northern Ireland? Then it’s important to know that new rules are coming. The General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR) will come into effect on December 13, 2024, aiming to better protect consumers against unsafe products. What exactly is changing, and what do you need to do to comply? We explain it simply.
What is the GPSR?
The GPSR replaces the old product safety rules and introduces stricter requirements. The idea is simple: products must be safe, and consumers must trust that what they buy meets the highest standards.
Here are the key changes:
1. Improved product traceability
Products must be traceable to their origin, making it easier to identify and recall unsafe items. The new requirements include:
- Contact details of the manufacturer, importer, or representative (in the EU) must appear on the product or its packaging.
- Each product must have a type, serial, or identification number that is easily readable.
- Clear instructions and safety information
Products must include user-friendly instructions and safety details. Whether it’s a toy car or a kitchen appliance, consumers need to understand how to use it safely.
2. Clear instructions and safety information
Products must include user-friendly instructions and safety details. Whether it’s a toy car or a kitchen appliance, consumers need to understand how to use it safely.
3. A representative in the EU
If you sell products from outside the EU on the European market, you must appoint a representative in the EU. This authorised representative serves as the point of contact and ensures your products comply with GPSR regulations.
4. Better recall processes
If a product is unsafe, swift action is essential. The GPSR makes this easier with clear rules:
- Technical documentation must always be available for quick recalls.
- Customers must receive a full refund, replacement, or free repair during a recall.
- Governments and businesses will collaborate more effectively to remove unsafe products from the market.
5. Mandatory quality system
Manufacturers, importers, and distributors must implement a quality system to ensure product safety. This includes:
- Regular checks on legal compliance.
- Sampling and quality inspections.
- Addressing complaints promptly and acting on any safety concerns.
Need help? An advisor can assist you in setting up a quality system.
6. Additional rules for online platforms
Online marketplaces now have extra responsibilities:
- They must appoint a central contact point for communication with safety authorities.
- Register with the Safety Gate Portal. This acts as their central contact point.
- Implement internal procedures to ensure product safety compliance.
Who Needs to Pay Attention?
These rules apply to manufacturers, importers, distributors, fulfilment centres, representatives, and online platforms selling non-food products to consumers.
When Does This Take Effect?
In the Netherlands, the GPSR will officially take effect on December 13, 2024. Make sure you’re prepared to avoid surprises.
In short: The GPSR introduces more responsibility and transparency. Whether you manufacture, import, or sell products online, you need to ensure everything is in order. Start now to meet the new rules on time!
Yehwangs products comply with the new GPSR product safety regulations. Check out our items here.
