Consumer products

The European consumer safety policy is reflected in the Amsterdam treaty and is underpinned in the Commission's 'Consumer Policy Strategy 2002 - 2006', which is laid down in the Commission's communication COM (2002) 208 Final (see OJ, C 137 of 2002).

'Consumer products' are defined as items intended for consumers or likely to be used by consumers, even if not intended for them. Products provided in the framework of a service to consumers are also considered to be 'consumer products'.

• Work programme

Standards for such products are important. They are one of the means of proving that products are safe and their design fulfils the 'state of the art' of technology. As a result, manufacturers and distributors of products complying with standards can limit their liability in case of accidents. This is clearly reflected in the Union directive for general product safety (2001/95/EC) which explicitly calls up standards. A FAQ list provides you with practical information on the GPSD, and also addresses the way European Standards are published in the OJEC.

Standards related to other directives cover toys (88/378/EEC), dangerous substances and preparations (76/769/EEC) and, for some specific sports equipment, the directive for personal protective equipment (89/686/EEC).

Standards are drafted in close collaboration with ANEC, the European Association for the coordination of consumer representation. ANEC is also active in various CEN Technical Committees and CEN Workshops of CEN/ISSS (Information Society Standardization Structure).

At international level, close cooperation with ISO takes place when necessary. The ISO/Copolco policy committee sets the consumer policy.

Also Consumers International occasionally participates in standardization activities at international level.

With the ageing of the European population, more emphasis is being laid on the usability of products for the elderly and the disabled. The European Commission mandated CEN to develop a 'Guide on the usability of products by people with special needs'. CEN and CENELEC therefore joined forces with ISO and IEC to develop the CEN/CENELEC Guide 6, which is technically identical to the ISO/IEC Guide 71. Additionally, the CEN/Technical Board adopted a mechanism which aims at implementing and stimulating the use of CEN/CENELEC Guide 6.

Contact

Cinzia MIssiroli
E-mail