The Radio Equipment Directive (RED) establishes a comprehensive regulatory framework for placing radio equipment on the market. Radio equipment includes products with GPS, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi, such as smartphones, televisions, remote controls, routers, laptops, and many other products.
Some of the essential aspects that manufacturer must observe are the requirements for labels and instructions for use (IFUs). Especially, such requirements concern what markings, information, and warnings the products should provide and how they should be displayed.
CE marking and labels requirements
After manufacturers demonstrate to be compliant with the Directive, they can draw up the Declaration of Conformity and affix the CE marking. In addition to the CE marking, the labels have to display a type, batch, serial number, or any element that enables the identification of the product. In case this is not possible due to the size, manufacturers can provide that information on the packaging of a document accompanying the radio equipment.
Labels also have to show name, registered trade name or trademark, and postal address where the manufacturers can be contacted. The address has to indicate a single point of contact, and the contact details must be in a language understood by the end users and market surveillance authorities. In case the size of the equipment does not allow it, manufacturers can mention such information on the packaging or a document accompanying the product.
Instructions for use (IFUs) and safety information
RED products must come with instructions for use (IFUs) and safety information in a language that can be easily understood by consumers and other end-users. IFUs must include the information required to use the product properly and according to its intended use. When applicable, IFUs should also provide a description of accessories and components, including software. All the instruction and safety information need to be displayed in a clear and understandable manner.
Additionally, if the radio equipment is intentionally emitting radio waves, then the product must also include the following information:
- Frequency band(s);
- Maximum radio-frequency power transmitted in the frequency band(s).
How to approach the EU and UK market?
To place your products on the EU and UK market and be compliant with market surveillance requirements, manufacturers should appoint an EU based economic operators, for ex. authorised representative.
Obelis can act as your authorised representative on the EU and UK market, ensuring a detailed review of the labels and IFUs and compliance with the abovementioned requirements.
Our Library include documents relevant for manufacturers of RED products.
References:
European Commission (2018). Directive 2014/53/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 16 April 2014 on the harmonisation of the laws of the Member States relating to the making available on the market of radio equipment. Retrieved on 26/12/2022.
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