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MARKING FOR SPECIAL MACHINERY MADE EASY!
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We take care of your entire CE marking process, including accompanying measures.
All you have to do is affix the CE mark.

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Willy Lebherz

Director & founder of easyCE GmbH

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Let's find out what is required for the CE labelling of your products

Request our expert opinion free of charge and find out exactly what is necessary for the CE marking of your product and what accompanying measures are required.

What can we help you with?

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Or simply give us a call: +49 7248 4524700

Declaration of conformity done!

Receive your CE declaration of conformity ready for signature.

Risk assessment completed!

CE mandatory risk analysis conducted.

Relevant directives & standards applied!

Your product evaluated against relevant directives and standards.

Technical documentation created!

Receive a pragmatic, user-friendly operating manual.

CE mark attached!

Simply affix the CE mark and you're done.

The most important information about CE marking for your production and manufacturing facilities, explained briefly

CE MARKING FOR EQUIPMENT - GENERAL

LEGAL BASIS FOR THE CE MARKING OF EQUIPMENT

CE PROCESS FOR PLANT EQUIPMENT

LIABILITY, PENALTIES & RISKS IN THE EVENT OF INCORRECT CE MARKING

CE marking for production and manufacturing facilities completed! It's quite straightforward with our assistance

The CE marking is essential for manufacturers and operators of production and manufacturing facilities to ensure compliance with European health and safety requirements. It enables the free movement of goods within the European Economic Area and documents compliance with relevant EU directives.

We will be happy to help you with the implementation!

Legal basis for CE marking for production and manufacturing facilities

The Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC forms the central legal basis for the CE marking of machinery and equipment. It specifies the essential health and safety requirements that must be met before machinery is placed on the market or put into service.

Other relevant guidelines
Depending on the specific design and function of the system, the following guidelines may also apply:

  • Low Voltage Directive 2014/35/EU
  • EMC Directive 2014/30/EU
  • Pressure Equipment Directive 2014/68/EU

The CE marking process

The CE marking process for manufacturing and production facilities comprises several steps:

  1. Risk assessment: Identification and assessment of hazards that may arise from the machine or system.
  2. Determination of relevant guidelines and standards: Determination of the applicable EU directives and harmonised standards.
  3. Technical documentation: Preparation of comprehensive documentation, including design drawings, circuit diagrams and calculations.
  4. Preparation of the declaration of conformity: Documentation that the machine or system complies with the applicable requirements.
  5. Affixing the CE marking: Visible marking of the machine or system with the CE mark.
Further information on the conformity assessment process can be found at: CE Marking Process.
Details and specific requirements for your production facilities can be found here.

Consequences of missing or incorrect CE marking

The absence or incorrect affixing of the CE marking can have significant legal and economic consequences:

  • Market access restrictions: Products without valid CE marking may not be placed on the market.
  • Liability risks: In the event of damage, the manufacturer or operator may be held liable.
  • Fines and penalties: Authorities can impose heavy penalties for violations of the CE marking requirement.
To prevent this from happening to you, we guide you through the entire process of CE marking your production or manufacturing machine.

Further information on the legal basis can be found at: CE Directives & Regulations
Find out in advance by our detailed article

ATEX certification for production and manufacturing facilities

Production facilities and manufacturing lines used in potentially explosive atmospheres are also subject to the requirements of the ATEX directives. These regulations are laid down in the ATEX Directive 2014/34/EU and govern the safety requirements for equipment and protective systems in potentially explosive atmospheres.

When is ATEX certification required? ATEX certification is necessary if your special-purpose machine or system:

  • is operated in areas with flammable gases, vapours or dust (e.g. painting or milling facilities)
  • may contain electrical or mechanical ignition sources
  • intended for use in Zone 1, 2, 21 or 22

What does ATEX certification cover?

  • Classification of the zone and selection of suitable equipment
  • Risk assessment from an ATEX perspective
  • explosion protection document
  • ATEX Declaration of Conformity
  • Labelling in accordance with Directive 2014/34/EU
Compliance with ATEX requirements is crucial for operational safety – and a prerequisite for the legally compliant marketing of your machines in potentially explosive environments.

We support you with CE marking and all accompanying measures

+49 7248 4524700

Over 300 CE markings for special machines since 2021 and more every day...

Logo von AdvancePharma GmbH Logo von ArcelorMittal GmbH Logo von DHL GmbH Logo von Falken GmbH Logo von Ferchau GmbH Logo von KM Packaging GmbH Logo von KM Novanta GmbH Logo von Recipharm GmbH Logo von Salzgitter AG Logo von Somni GmbH Logo von ThermoFischer GmbH Logo von ThyssenKrupp GmbH Logo von TuRP	 GmbH

You must take this into account when CE marking your machine

AS PRODUCER OF FACILITIES

AS OPERATOR OF FACILITIES

Plant manufacturers usually assume responsibility for the creation and verification of the CE marking.

We advise plant manufacturers to adopt the CE marking and technical documentation of the plant in the interests of their customers and to gain a competitive advantage. We also recommend studying the special regulations, e.g. in the food and pharmaceutical sectors, in advance and taking them into account during construction in order to avoid additional work in proving conformity. Remember that correct operating and assembly instructions in the local language of the place of use are a central component of product conformity.

The experts at easyCE will be happy to support you as a subcontractor with the CE marking and technical documentation of your projects.

Operators always have the obligation to provide CE proof and usually also the responsibility for creating the CE marking.

Operators may only use CE-marked production and manufacturing systems, as they must guarantee their employees that they are working on compliant and safe machines. Conformity must often be proven to inspectors, particularly in the food and pharmaceutical sectors. This also applies to used and old systems. To ensure a streamlined adaptation of the CE marking, we advise operators to only use CE-marked components for self-built or expanded systems. If the entire system is manufactured by a commissioned system manufacturer, we recommend having the CE marking and complete technical documentation created by the same company.

The experts at easyCE are available to answer any questions you may have regarding conformity and will be happy to assist you.

+49 7248 4524700

Only with easyCE, CE marking is worry-free

Approach to CE marking

Flexibility and concept of support

Scope & scale of support

Contact during project work

Simplified and pragmatic approach to CE marking to ensure complianceg

In line with to your needs, our experts will take you along the CE marking journey

You choose our support model: From "One-stop-shop full service", to partial and modular - whatever you prefer

First things you receive your dedicated, personal CE expert who will support you along the entire process

Other CE service providers

Often without a sense of proportion and unnecessarily complicated

Mostly flexible but often bureaucratic

Mostly flexible in the extent of support

Mostly personal contact

CE software

Follows a standardised process that does not take special features into account

Double burden for you: Software administration + no support for processing

Only according to software scope and purchased modules

No contact

We simplify CE-marking, not the opposite

Reference projects

CE marking and declaration of conformity of a tunnel boring machine for copper mining in Australia

CE marking and conformity assessment of all life cycle phases of a tunnel boring machine for copper mining in Australia

easyCE supports the entire conformity assessment procedure, including risk assessment and the declaration of conformity ready for signature, for all life phases of a tunnel boring machine for copper mining in Australia. The completely new concept of using multi-arm cutting heads was particularly important during the procedure. In addition to the conventional regulations, special safety and technical requirements that apply in Australia were taken into account. Intensive cooperation with the manufacturer and its Australian client was required.

Takes into account, among others: 2006/42/EC, 2014/30/EU, 2014/68/EU, DIN EN 12111, DIN EN 474-1 etc.

CE marking and declaration of conformity for high-bay warehouses with autonomous robot loading and unloading.

CE marking and conformity assessment of high-bay warehouses with autonomous robot loading and unloading

easyCE supports the entire conformity assessment procedure, including risk assessment, up to the declaration of conformity ready for signature for the entire high-bay warehouse system, with automatic lift, for use as a small parts warehouse in industrial plants. Particular attention was given to the risk situation in the event of maintenance or troubleshooting.

CE marking and declaration of conformity of conveyor systems and belt scrapers for universal use, e.g. the transport of bulk materials in mining.

Conformity of conveyor system and belt scraper for universal use, e.g. the transport of bulk materials in mining

easyCE supports the entire conformity assessment procedure including risk assessment according to ATEX up to the declaration of conformity ready for signature for conveyor belt scrapers in universal use. During the "assembly" and "maintenance" life cycle phases, special injury risks from heavy components had to be taken into account

CE marking and declaration of conformity of granulator with nitrogen in the pharmaceutical sector

CE marking for granulator with nitrogen and vacuum connection for use in pharmaceutical production

easyCE supports the CE marking of old machines on which significant changes have been made. The machine is a granulator with a nitrogen and vacuum connection for use in pharmaceutical production. In addition to conformity with the harmonized standards of the Machinery Directive, Annex I of the Machinery Directive must also be observed due to the area of application in the pharmaceutical industry. This results in increased requirements for materials and surface finishes. The structural design of the machine must also meet special requirements, for example in relation to the ability to dismantle, storage design, lubrication and the avoidance of dead spaces.

Takes into account among others: Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC Annex I

CE marking and declaration of conformity of test bench for pressure testing in the pharmaceutical sector

CE marking for a test bench for pressure testing of low-pressure units in the pharmaceutical sector

The first challenge was to decide whether the Pressure Equipment Directive needed to be applied to this machine. With easyCE's guidance, the manufacturer was able to carry out some measurements on the machine, which ultimately meant that the Pressure Equipment Directive did not need to be applied. Although this made the process easier, a thorough risk assessment and the development of appropriate safety measures were still required within the usual framework. In particular, easyCE was able to verify and ensure the high hygiene standards of the pharmaceutical industry by accurately comparing them with EN ISO 14159, so that the CE conformity assessment process could be successfully completed and a CE marking for the test bench could be created.

Takes into account among others: Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC Annex I, EN ISO 14159

CE marking and declaration of conformity of filter cassettes

CE marking for a test station for filter cassettes

The product assessed was a coagulation robot that treats raw meat samples with a coagulation needle to simulate the smoke emissions during a medical treatment. This serves the purpose of testing filter cassettes for exhaust air systems. In addition to the typical requirements for machines, special attention had to be paid to hygiene in the conformity assessment of this product, as handling raw meat can quickly lead to health risks. Thanks to easyCE's many years of experience and expertise and its close orientation to En ISO 14159, this project was brought to a successful conclusion.

Takes into account among others: Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC Annex I, EN ISO 14159

Conformity assessment procedure and CE marking for fire resistance test equipment in the automotive industry

Conformity assessment procedure and CE marking for fire resistance test equipment in the automotive industry

easyCE successfully supports CE marking up to the ready-to-sign Declaration of Conformity for a specialized test stand for conducting fire resistance tests according to ECE R100. The particular challenge was in the ignition source analysis and implementation of a sophisticated safety concept according to EN ISO 13849-1, which ensures a high performance level despite deliberate fire generation. Security is provided through redundant safety systems with personnel clearance detection and lockable access points according to EN ISO 14119, enabling reliable operation even under extreme test conditions.

Considering: 2006/42/EU, 2014/30EU

Conformity assessment procedure and CE marking for vehicle mounting device

Conformity assessment procedure and CE marking for vehicle mounting device

easyCE successfully supports CE marking up to the ready-to-sign Declaration of Conformity for a rail-guided mounting device with integrated spindle drive. The device meets all requirements of the Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC and the EMC Directive 2014/30/EU. A particular challenge was the development of a mechanical switching system according to EN ISO 12100 that enables automatic screwing by four integrated cordless screwdrivers while ensuring maximum safety in securing the position of the raised tank.

Considering: 2006/42/EG, 2014/30/EU

Conformity assessment procedure and CE marking for industrial process control systems in the concrete industry

Conformity assessment procedure and CE marking for industrial process control systems in the concrete industry

easyCE successfully supports CE marking up to the ready-to-sign Declaration of Conformity for complex control systems in the concrete industry. Through careful analysis of safety requirements according to EN ISO 13849-1, the required performance levels for safety functions can be verified. A particular challenge is the integration of various bus systems and interfaces according to EN 61131-3, where the functional safety of the entire system must be guaranteed at all times.

Considering: 2006/42/EG, 2014/30/EU, 2014/35/EU,

Conformity assessment procedure and CE marking for an assembly system for plastic container manufacturing

Conformity assessment procedure and CE marking for an assembly system for plastic container manufacturing

easyCE successfully supports CE marking up to the ready-to-sign Declaration of Conformity for a rotary transfer assembly system for plastic container manufacturing. During the risk assessment according to EN ISO 12100, special challenges regarding machine enclosure and personnel protection were addressed. The integration of safety interlocks according to EN ISO 14119 on the separating protective devices and the evaluation of control safety according to EN ISO 13849-1 ensure reliable operation while meeting all hygiene requirements for the cosmetics industry.

Considering: 2006/42/EG, 2014/30/EU

Conformity assessment procedure and CE marking for automated assembly systems

Conformity assessment procedure and CE marking for automated assembly systems

easyCE successfully supports CE marking up to the ready-to-sign Declaration of Conformity for rotary assembly systems designed for precise joining of plastic components. Special attention was paid to functional safety according to EN ISO 13849-1. The integration of various safety devices such as dual-channel emergency stop systems and safety sensors on access doors presented a particular challenge, which was solved through a comprehensive safety concept according to EN ISO 12100.

Considering: 2006/42/EG, 2014/30/EU, 2014/35/EU, 2011/65/EU,

Conformity assessment procedure and CE marking for packaging systems with cooling section

Conformity assessment procedure and CE marking for packaging systems with cooling section

easyCE successfully supports CE marking up to the ready-to-sign Declaration of Conformity for a packaging system for automatic closing and packaging of plastic closures. The particular challenge was securing the swivel conveyor mechanism according to EN ISO 13849-1 to ensure safe interaction between moving parts. Through consistent application of DIN EN 415-7 for collective packaging machines, all hazardous areas could be identified and secured with appropriate safety devices.

Considering: 2006/42/EG, 2014/30/EU, 2014/35/EU, 2011/65/EU,

Conformity assessment procedure and CE marking for automated assembly systems

Conformity assessment procedure and CE marking for automated assembly systems

easyCE successfully supports CE marking up to the ready-to-sign Declaration of Conformity for rotary assembly systems designed for precise joining of plastic components. Special attention was paid to functional safety according to EN ISO 13849-1. The integration of various safety devices such as dual-channel emergency stop systems and safety sensors on access doors presented a particular challenge, which was solved through a comprehensive safety concept according to EN ISO 12100.

Considering: 2006/42/EG, 2014/30/EU, 2014/35/EU

Conformity assessment procedure and CE marking for an integrated system for production and packaging of plastic caps

Conformity assessment procedure and CE marking for an integrated system for production and packaging of plastic caps

easyCE successfully supports CE marking up to the ready-to-sign Declaration of Conformity for an integrated system consisting of an injection molding machine, linear robot and packaging system. The integration of safety functions according to EN ISO 13849-1 required special attention at the interfaces between the individual machines. A common emergency stop circuit according to EN ISO 13850 was implemented, ensuring that when an emergency stop switch is activated, all three machines stop safely. The complex risk assessment according to EN ISO 12100 considered all possible hazards in the transfer areas.

Considering: 2006/42/EG, 2014/30/EU, 2014/35/EU, 2011/65/EU

Conformity assessment procedure and CE marking for fall protection systems used in power line work

Conformity assessment procedure and CE marking for fall protection systems used in power line work

easyCE successfully supports CE marking up to the ready-to-sign Declaration of Conformity for temporary fall protection systems that protect critical infrastructure like roads, railways and power line systems. Special challenges included safety design according to EN 14502-2 for use in extreme weather conditions with resistance to side winds up to 180 km/h. Compliance with EN 13849-1 ensures reliable functionality of safety devices such as wind monitoring and stability control systems.

Considering: 2006/42/EG

Conformity assessment procedure and CE marking for industrial filter presses for the separation of liquids and solids

Conformity assessment procedure and CE marking for industrial filter presses for the separation of liquids and solids

easyCE successfully supports CE marking up to the ready-to-sign declaration of conformity for filter presses that reliably separate solids and liquids. The implementation of EN ISO 13849-1 for the safety control system presented a particular challenge, especially in securing the automatic plate transport and cleaning systems. Through the use of light curtains, roller blinds and emergency stop systems according to EN 60204-1, a high level of safety could be guaranteed despite complex hydraulic drive technology.

Considering: 2006/42/EG

Conformity assessment procedure and CE marking for testing equipment in industrial quality assurance

Conformity assessment procedure and CE marking for testing equipment in industrial quality assurance

easyCE successfully supports the CE marking process up to the ready-to-sign Declaration of Conformity for a modular testing system for quality assurance. During the risk assessment according to EN ISO 12100, special attention was paid to electrical hazards and the safe isolation of energy sources. The integration of protective devices according to EN 60204-1 for electrical equipment and control systems presented a central challenge, which was successfully overcome through systematic testing and documentation of the safety functions.

Considering: 2006/42/EG, 2014/30/EU, 2014/35/EU

Conformity assessment procedure and CE marking for industrial welding systems

Conformity assessment procedure and CE marking for industrial welding systems

easyCE successfully supports CE marking up to the ready-to-sign Declaration of Conformity for automated welding systems with integrated laser technology and fume extraction. The particular challenge was in evaluating the complex safety requirements according to EN ISO 13849-1 for the control systems and compliance with specific requirements for welding equipment according to EN 60974-1. The comprehensive risk analysis according to EN ISO 12100 particularly considered laser safety and the ergonomic design of the exchange station.

Considering: 2006/42/EG, 2014/30/EU, 2014/35/EU

Conformity assessment procedure and CE marking for garage formwork machines

Conformity assessment procedure and CE marking for garage formwork machines

easyCE successfully supports CE marking through to the ready-to-sign Declaration of Conformity for formwork systems used in concrete garage production. The particular challenges in this project were securing the hydraulic components and ensuring occupational safety when operating the large movable formwork elements. By applying EN ISO 13849-1, an appropriate performance level for the control system was achieved while simultaneously meeting the requirements of EN 60204-1 for electrical equipment.

Considering: 2006/42/EG, 2014/30/EU, 2014/35/EU, 2011/65/EU

Conformity assessment procedure and CE marking for fire extinguisher training equipment

Conformity assessment procedure and CE marking for fire extinguisher training equipment

easyCE successfully supports CE marking up to the ready-to-sign Declaration of Conformity for filling stations with automatic pump systems. The particular challenge lies in ensuring electrical safety according to EN 60204-1 while simultaneously pressurizing training equipment. Through careful application of EN ISO 13849-1 for control systems, an appropriate performance level was achieved that guarantees safe operation even during intensive use.

Considering: 2006/42/EG, 2014/35/EU

Conformity assessment procedure and CE marking for automated filter production systems

Conformity assessment procedure and CE marking for automated filter production systems

easyCE successfully supports CE marking up to the ready-to-sign Declaration of Conformity for an integrated production system for manufacturing respiratory protection filters. The risk assessment according to EN ISO 12100 enabled systematic identification of hazards at interface areas of the 11 integrated modules. During the safety integration of ATEX-relevant components (vacuum conveyor and extraction system), special requirements of EN ISO 13849-1 for functional safety were considered and documented.

Considering: 2006/42/EG, 2014/30/EU, 2014/34/EU

Conformity assessment procedure and CE marking for automated pneumatic sorting devices

Conformity assessment procedure and CE marking for automated pneumatic sorting devices

easyCE successfully supports CE marking up to the ready-to-sign Declaration of Conformity for pneumatic blowing devices for automated parcel sorting. During risk assessment according to EN ISO 12100, special attention was paid to the sensor-controlled pneumatic activation. Integration into existing systems required compliance with EN 60204-1 for electrical equipment and EN ISO 13849-1 for functional safety of control systems to ensure maximum operational safety during ongoing sorting operations.

Considering: 2006/42/EG, 2014/30/EU

Conformity assessment procedure and CE marking for aircraft maintenance fixtures

Conformity assessment procedure and CE marking for aircraft maintenance fixtures

easyCE successfully supports CE marking up to the ready-to-sign Declaration of Conformity for maintenance fixtures with lifting and positioning functions. Through risk assessment according to EN ISO 12100 and application of EN 13155 for removable load handling attachments, all safety requirements were met. A particular challenge was balancing weight optimization and mechanical stability of load-bearing components, which was verified through testing procedures according to EN 280.

Considering: 2006/42/EG

Conformity assessment procedure and CE marking for variable traffic sign systems on vehicles

Conformity assessment procedure and CE marking for variable traffic sign systems on vehicles

easyCE successfully supports CE marking up to the ready-to-sign Declaration of Conformity for an LED-based variable traffic sign system mounted on escort vehicles. Implementing functional safety presented a particular challenge due to the combination of setup and rotation mechanisms. By applying EN ISO 13849-1 for control systems and consistent risk analysis according to EN ISO 12100, all necessary safety requirements for use in public traffic were met.

Considering: 2006/42/EG, 2014/30/EU, 2011/65/EU

Conformity assessment procedure and CE marking for fiber laser tube cutting systems

Conformity assessment procedure and CE marking for fiber laser tube cutting systems

easyCE successfully supports CE marking through to the ready-to-sign Declaration of Conformity for high-precision fiber laser systems for processing tubes and profiles. The complex integration of laser components with high power classes from 3 to 12 kW presented special challenges for safety design according to EN ISO 12100. By applying EN ISO 13849-1, a reliable safety system with redundant safety circuits was implemented, ensuring maximum personnel protection both during manual setup operation and in fully automatic operation with material loading and unloading.

Considering: 2006/42/EG, 2014/30/EU

Conformity assessment procedure and CE marking for a universal machine for manufacturing automotive interior parts

Conformity assessment procedure and CE marking for a universal machine for manufacturing automotive interior parts

easyCE successfully supports CE marking up to the ready-to-sign Declaration of Conformity for servo-hydraulic universal machines for manufacturing interior parts. The integration of multiple processes such as pressing, punching and edge folding in one system presented special requirements for risk assessment according to EN ISO 12100. By implementing modern control safety measures in accordance with EN 60204-1 and EN ISO 13849-1, the functional safety of the complex hydraulic and electrical systems could be demonstrably ensured.

Considering: 2006/42/EG, 2014/30/EU, 2014/35/EU

Conformity assessment procedure and CE marking for industrial 3D printer with arc wire additive manufacturing technology

Conformity assessment procedure and CE marking for industrial 3D printer with arc wire additive manufacturing technology

easyCE successfully supports CE marking up to the ready-to-sign Declaration of Conformity for an XXL 3D printer using laser-assisted wire arc additive manufacturing. The risk assessment according to EN ISO 12100 particularly addressed aspects of laser safety and functional machine safety in accordance with EN ISO 13849-1. A particular challenge was the enclosure of the work area with movable guards and the integration of a reliable emergency stop system according to EN ISO 13850 to ensure safe operation when welding components weighing several tons.

Considering: 2006/42/EG, 2014/30/EU

Conformity assessment procedure and CE marking for industrial tomography portal

Conformity assessment procedure and CE marking for industrial tomography portal

easyCE successfully supports CE marking up to the ready-to-sign Declaration of Conformity for a high-performance tomography portal for examining large concrete samples. Particular challenges were the radiation protection requirements according to DIN EN 62061 and the integration of redundant safety systems as per EN ISO 13849-1. The complex safety architecture with key switches, light barriers and interlocking systems meets the necessary performance levels while ensuring scientific usability.

Considering: 2006/42/EG, 2014/30/EU

Conformity assessment procedure and CE marking for automated welding robot system

Conformity assessment procedure and CE marking for automated welding robot system

easyCE successfully supports CE marking through to the ready-to-sign Declaration of Conformity for an automated welding robot system with two robot arms on a rail track. The particular challenge was integrating safety procedures for the dual welding technologies (arc stud and MAG welding) while complying with EN 60204-1 for electrical equipment. By applying EN ISO 14119:2013 for interlocking devices, a reliable safety concept with door interlocking was implemented, guaranteeing optimal personnel protection with high system availability.

Considering: 2006/42/EG, 2014/30/EU

Learn more about our project references and success stories

Get CE-marking done in 3 simple steps

Step 1

Request our expert opinion

Ask for our expert opinion free of charge and find out what is necessary for the CE marking of your product. Be prepared to describe your product in broad terms.

Step 2

Receive an offer

If your product is subject to CE marking, we offer you our support with the CE marking and all accompanying measures. We would be happy to explain the necessary steps over the phone.

Step 3

We get it done

When you place an order, you will be assigned your own personal CE expert who will carry out your CE marking and accompany you throughout the entire process. Your expert will also be at your side after the CE marking has been successfully completed.

We support you with CE marking and all accompanying measures

+49 7248 4524700

Frequently asked questions

Which special machines and production systems (interlinked systems) require CE marking?

In summary, all products that fall within the scope of one of the 26 CE directives and regulations must undergo a conformity assessment procedure and require CE marking.

In most cases, production plants contain moving mechanical parts and are powered by electricity. Therefore, the Machinery Directive as well as the EMC-Directives and mostly the Low voltage directive to apply. The special machines and production systems that require CE marking include in particular:

What is a "linked system" and a "set of machines"?

A "linked installation" (sometimes also called a "complex installation") is often used as a colloquial term for the "assembly of machines" under the Machinery Directive.

Such systems are often found in production lines in manufacturing companies, but can also occur on a small scale. Robot-assisted systems usually also represent a set of machines. A set of machines is subject to CE marking.

What are the two main characteristics of an interconnected system or set of machines?

A set of machines is described by two main characteristics:

  • There must be a production-related connection. This means that the machines are designed to work together towards a common goal (for example, the manufacture of a product) and that the machines have a common, higher-level control system.
  • There must also be a safety-related connection. This describes the fact that a hazard in one machine could lead to hazards in the other parts of the linked system. An assessment must therefore be machine-specific and individual. Please contact us if you need support.

What are the consequences when individual machines represent a group of machines?

The Machinery Directive treats all machines as a separate machine. They must therefore undergo the conformity procedure again and receive the CE marking.

The manufacturer of the linked system is responsible for this. The Machinery Directive also provides for further measures, such as a common emergency stop device.

Who is the manufacturer of a chained system?

The role of the manufacturer of a linked system can be played by different people.

Most of the time, interlinked systems are created in manufacturing companies unknowingly by purchasing various machines and then having them work together. In this case, the manufacturing company that arranges and operates the individual machines in this way is considered the manufacturer of the interlinked system. It therefore also assumes responsibility and liability for possible injuries to people if they are harmed by a hazard arising from this interlinking. The manufacturer is obliged to ensure the safety of the machine by carrying out a new conformity procedure. If an interlinked system is designed and manufactured for sale to a customer, the individual machines are often purchased from different manufacturers. In this case, the role of the manufacturer (and therefore also the responsibility) can be taken on by a manufacturer of a component of the interlinked system. However, it is also possible for the customer (i.e. the buyer of the interlinked system) to take on the role of the manufacturer. This question must be clarified before the sale.

What documentation do I (as a manufacturer) need if I create a linked system or set of machines, e.g. in production?

We will be happy to support you in preparing this documentation!

  • The conformity procedure must be repeated for a linked system or set of machines. A risk assessment must therefore be carried out again. This differs from the risk assessments for individual machines because, for the set of machines, the interfaces of the machines and the hazards due to events in other areas of the set of machines must also be assessed.
  • The linked system or set of machines requires its own nameplate.
  • The linked system or set of machines requires its own declaration of conformity from the manufacturer.
  • New technical documentation and operating instructions are also required.

Is CE marking required for hydraulic and pneumatic special machines and systems?

Yes, hydraulic and pneumatic products are considered as machines according to the Machinery Directive. The conformity assessment procedure must therefore be carried out and a CE marking must be affixed.

Trust the experts of product safety and compliance

A picture of Willy Lebherz big
A picture of Willy Lebherz small

Willy Lebherz - Founder and Managing Director of easyCE

  • Expert in product safety and compliance, since 1995
  • Recipient of the "Medal of the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany", awarded in 1983 by the then Federal President Carl Carstens
  • Master of measurement and control technology
  • Captain (ret.), Project Officer for Technical Logistics in the Army Material Office and Chief of the Telecommunications Repair Company

easyCE is a digital, dynamic engineering office with a focus on product safety and product conformity. We support manufacturers, operators and dealers in designing products safely and offering them on the market in compliance. We are a "full-service provider" and can take over the entire conformity assessment process for you if you wish. To do this, we support you in carrying out risk assessments, researching standards, product analyses, developing suitable safety precautions, preparing user-friendly technical documentation, coordinating tests and all other accompanying measures. easyCE was founded in southern Germany, but is now active globally.

We know the special features that you need to take into account when CE marking your product and we are happy to help you.