The General Product Safety Directive (GPSD) requires that all products sold in the EU are generally safe to use. Hence, the GPSD can be said to apply to all product categories. However, the GPSD does reference product-specific standards – known as harmonised standards.

In this guide, we list several product categories covered by GPSD harmonised standards, and explain how the GPSD can apply even if no such standards exist for your product. Continue reading List of Products Covered by the General Product Safety Directive (GPSD)

Harmonised standards in the European Union refer to standards referenced under certain directives and regulations, such as the Toy Safety Directive or the Personal Protective Equipment Regulation. Whereas the directives and regulations provide more general compliance requirements on safety, labeling, and documentation – harmonised standards serve as practical ‘blueprints’ that can be followed to implement said compliance requirements for specific products.

In this guide, we explain how to identify relevant harmonised standards and how the implementation can work. We also list some examples of such standards for toys, electronics, PPE, and many other product categories. Continue reading Harmonised Product Standards in the European Union: A Complete Guide

The Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) regulation sets bans, limitations, and notification requirements for chemicals, heavy metals, and other harmful substances. The regulation covers consumer products imported to or manufactured in the European Union.

REACH lab testing is necessary in order to determine whether a product or material is compliant. In this guide, we explain what importers and manufacturers must know about the testing process, why testing is important, cost examples, and more. Continue reading REACH Product Lab Testing: A Complete Guide