What does it mean for a product to be CE marked? - A complete guide for manufacturers and users.
Sep 9, 2025
The CE marking is one of the most recognized symbols in the EU. It shows that a product meets the basic health and safety requirements in the applicable directives as per EU legislation. But what does the CE marking actually mean - and how do you as a manufacturer, importer, or user ensure that you are complying?
In this guide, we will go through the basics of CE marking and show how Noex's digital platform makes the process simpler, traceable, and secure.
What is CE marking?
CE stands for Conformité Européenne - “European Conformity”. The marking is a proof that the manufacturer themselves certifies that the product meets all relevant requirements in EU directives and regulations.
This means:
The product may be sold freely throughout the EU market.
The manufacturer takes responsibility for ensuring that the requirements are met.
Authorities and customs assume that the product is safe until proven otherwise.
With Noex, you can document the entire process behind CE marking, from risk assessment, EU declaration of conformity to affixing the CE label, so that you always have proof ready.
When is CE marking required?
All products covered by an EU directive or an EU regulation that requires CE marking must be marked before being put into operation on the market. Examples include:
Machines (Machinery Directive/Machinery Regulation)
Personal protective equipment (EU 2016/425)
Toys (2009/48/EC)
In short: Almost all consumer products are subject to EU legislation.
What does the CE mark mean in practice?
There are many misconceptions about the CE mark. Here is the most important thing to know:
The CE mark is not a quality mark - it does not mean that the product is “the best” or “safe to use”.
The manufacturer places the CE mark themselves - no authority does it for you, but you may need to engage a third party (notified body) to certify your machine.
It indicates compliance with specific legislation - but does not guarantee that all other regulations are met.
With Noex, you get support throughout the process so that your CE marking is not just a symbol - but part of a correct, traceable, and secure manufacturing and use of your machine.
Who is responsible for CE marking?
The responsibility always rests with the person who places their name or brand on the product. This means:
The manufacturer is responsible if the product is designed and built in their own name.
The importer is responsible if the product is purchased from outside the EU and sold on the EU market.
The distributor can become responsible if they sell a product under their own brand.
Unsure of what role your company has? Noex makes it easy to document who is responsible for what in each project.
If you are a user of a machine, you fall under the requirements of AFS 2023:11 Chapter 2. Use of work equipment and Appendix 2 "Organizational requirements for using work equipment" - these requirements are available as Risk Assessment documentation in Noex.
Are you modifying machines? A substantial modification may mean that you take over the responsibility as a manufacturer and must therefore perform new CE marking.
The significance of CE marking for free movement
A CE marked product can circulate freely throughout the EU and EEA. Authorities and customs should assume it meets the requirements until proven otherwise.
However: if the marking is incorrect (e.g., wrong size of the CE symbol, absence of contact details, or lack of technical documentation (such as a correct risk assessment), the product may be stopped at the border.
With Noex, you ensure that all documents, markings, and declarations are in order - and avoid unnecessary problems during inspections.
How Noex helps you with CE marking.
With Noex's digital platform, you can:
Gather all documentation for CE marking in one place.
Conduct risk analyses and risk assessments according to EN ISO 12100.
Ensure traceability and transparency during inspections.
Reach a correct CE marking faster - without unnecessary duplication of work.
FAQ
Is CE marking mandatory?
Yes, for all products covered by EU legislation that requires it.
Can anyone CE mark a product?
Yes, but if you have a machine that is included in Annex IV, it may mean that a notified body needs to assess compliance with the essential health and safety requirements.
Is the CE mark a quality mark?
No. It is merely proof of legal compliance, not a quality stamp.
What happens if a product lacks CE marking?
It cannot be sold on the EU market. The company risks fines, sales bans, or product recalls.
How can Noex help my company?
Noex guides you through the entire CE process - from risk analysis to completed technical documentation - so you can always feel secure regarding manufacturing, market launch, usage, and compliance.
Summary
CE marking is a key to selling products on the EU market. But it is not a symbol of quality - rather a legal commitment that shows that the product complies with EU requirements.
With Noex, CE marking and risk assessment become simpler, faster, and more traceable.
