03 Aug UK will continue to recognise CE mark longer term – but no clarity on construction products yet
On August 1, the UK Department of Business & Trade (DBT) announced that the CE mark would be accepted on manufactured goods indefinitely. The announcement applies to the eighteen manufactured goods regulations ‘owned’ by DBT.
The DBT said, “the Business Secretary acted urgently on this issue, to prevent a cliff-edge moment in December 2024 when UKCA was set for entry. This intervention will ensure businesses no longer face uncertainty over the regulations and can cut back on unnecessary costs freeing them up to focus on innovation and growth.”
So far, so good, and a move widely welcomed by manufacturing and business organisations.
However, the DBT has emphasised that its decision, while applying to some construction machinery, does not apply to construction products. The regulation of these continues to be the responsibility of the Department of Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUCH). The DLUHC has not so far commented on the DBT announcement. In December 2022, the DLUHC said it would end recognition of the CE mark on construction products on June 30, 2025. This would require legislation to be put in place, which has not so far happened.
The differing positions from these government departments will inevitably create continued confusion and uncertainty in the British market.
The question now is whether the DLUHC, as has previously happened, will shift its position and, if so, when. In the meantime, there is once again lack of clarity over the construction regulatory environment, which undermines the UK construction industry, incurs further costs, and deters both UK and overseas manufacturers from committing products and availability to the UK market.
BIAFD will express these concerns, along with other industry bodies, to the DLUHC.