The UKCA (UK Conformity Assessed) marking is a new UK product marking that is used for goods being placed on the market in Great Britain (England, Wales and Scotland). It covers most goods which previously required the CE marking, known as ‘new approach’ goods, and aerosols that used the reverse epsilon symbol.
The UKCA marking came into effect on 1 January 2021 and was due to be implemented from 1 January 2022. However, to allow businesses time to adjust to the new requirements, an extension of a year was granted.
When the extension was announced in August 2021, Paul Slevin, President of Chambers Wales South East, South West and Mid, said: “Businesses, particularly in the manufacturing industry, in Wales who trade internationally have been greatly impacted by disruption caused by the pandemic and leaving the EU, in addition to volatility in the supply chain. Avoiding the duplication of markings and costs within the next year will be a particular relief for small and medium sized businesses in Wales, as well as those with complex supply chains.
“The extension until 1st January 2023 will give firms the opportunity to adapt to the new system, ensuring valuable time for products to be tested and assessed, and leading to greater compliance. We will be continuing to work with businesses to help them familiarise themselves with the new standards, and limit delays to the supply chain and consumers following the transition.”
Ahead of the new implementation date, 1 January 2023, the UK Government has released further guidance and is running a series of webinars to help businesses involved in the manufacture, importing and distribution of goods achieve compliance.
UKCA marking requirements including conformity assessment processes and standards generally mirror existing rules for CE marking. The UKCA marking must be visible and legible when affixed to the product, packaging and accompanying documents.
The UKCA and CE marking can be placed on the same product if it is destined for the EU and Great Britain markets as long as it meets the regulatory requirements for both markets.
There are different rules for placing goods on the market in Northern Ireland which uses the UKNI marking instead of UKCA. The UKNI marking is always accompanied by an EU conformity marking such as the CE marking.
Guidance and resources:
Webinar series | Using the UKCA marking | Using the UKNI marking | Great Britain market guidance | Northern Ireland market guidance | An A-Z of product safety
