UKCA certification

The UKCA certification is a new conformity assessment marking introduced by the UK after Brexit, intended to replace the former EU CE marking. It applies to most products sold on the UK market. The UKCA (UK Conformity Assessed) mark indicates that a product complies with relevant UK regulations and standards.

I. Scope of UKCA Certification

UKCA certification applies to most products that previously required CE marking, including but not limited to the following categories:

1. Machinery and equipment: such as industrial machinery, household appliances, etc.

2. Electronic and electrical equipment: including low-voltage equipment, radio equipment, etc.

3. Personal protective equipment (PPE): such as safety helmets, protective gloves, etc.

4.Medical devices: including Class I, Class II, and high-risk medical devices.

5. Toys: All products intended for children.

6. Construction products: such as building materials, fire protection equipment, etc.

7. Pressure equipment: such as boilers, pressure vessels, etc.

Please note that UKCA certification only applies to the markets of England, Wales, and Scotland. Northern Ireland still requires CE marking or the new UKNI mark (which must be used in conjunction with CE marking).

II. UKCA Certification Application Requirements

Products must comply with relevant UK regulations and standards. The UK currently largely adopts EU standards, but some standards have been changed from "EN" to "BS EN". Manufacturers must ensure that their products meet the following requirements:

The Product Safety and Metrology etc. (Amendment etc.) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019; 

The Product Safety and Metrology (Amendment) (EU Exit) Regulations 2020; 

Other specific product regulations (e.g., medical devices, toys, etc.).

III. Steps for Applying for UKCA Certification

1. Determine applicable regulations for the product.

First, it is necessary to identify the product category and its corresponding UK regulations. For example, toys must comply with the Toys (Safety) Regulations, medical devices must comply with the Medical Devices Regulations 2002, etc.

2. Product testing and evaluation

Self-declaration of conformity:​ For low-risk products, manufacturers may carry out self-assessment and sign a declaration of conformity.

Third-party testing:​ High-risk products must be tested by a UK-recognised laboratory, and a test report shall be issued.

3. Sign the Declaration of Conformity (DoC)

The manufacturer or authorised representative must sign the DoC, declaring that the product complies with UK regulations.

Product name and model number;

Manufacturer information;

Applicable UK regulations;

Name and title of the signatory;

4. Affix the UKCA marking

The marking must be clearly visible, with a height of at least 5 mm;

It can be affixed to the product, packaging, or accompanying documents;

Information on the UK authorised representative must be indicated (if applicable).

IV. Frequently Asked Questions

1.Difference between UKCA and CE certification

UKCA is specific to the UK market, while CE applies to the EU. The standards for both are similar.

2.Whether retesting is required

If the product has already passed CE certification and the standards remain unchanged, some test reports can be reused.

3.Validity period of UKCA certification

There is no fixed validity period for the certification, but reassessment is required as regulations are updated.