The General Product Safety Regulations 2005 (UK GPSR) set the rules to make sure consumer products are safe. They outline what businesses must do and provide tools for authorities to check and enforce compliance. Unlike goods covered by specific legislation, products under UK GPSR do not require a CE or UKCA marking.
It is important to note that different rules apply in Great Britain and Northern Ireland. Under the Northern Ireland Protocol, Northern Ireland follows EU product safety rules, meaning the EU General Product Safety Regulation (2023/988) applies there. This is why the scope is defined as Great Britain rather than the entire UK.
Products covered by the UK GPSR
The UK GPSR act as a safety net for consumer products, applying to all unless specific sectorial laws already in place that cover the same safety requirements. In other words, if no dedicated rules exist, these general regulations ensure that products on the market remain safe for consumers. In practice, products must be safe under normal or reasonably foreseeable conditions of use.
Obligation of general products manufacturers
Manufacturers hold the primary responsibility for ensuring the safety of the products they place on the market. This begins at the design stage, where risks must be identified and reduced as much as possible, and extends to the careful selection of materials and components. Clear instructions and warnings are also required, with labelling serving both to guide consumers and to ensure traceability if problems occur.
Their obligations do not end once a product is sold. Manufacturers must actively monitor products on the market and respond quickly to any identified risks, whether by adjusting the design, issuing safety notices, or withdrawing items. In serious cases, they are required to alert authorities and support recalls. These measures ensure that consumer safety is maintained throughout the full lifecycle of a product.
Representative for non-UK manufacturers
For products placed on the UK market, having a designated UK authorised representative (UK AR) is essential when the manufacturer is based outside the UK. The UK AR acts as the legal point of contact for authorities and consumers, ensuring compliance with the UK GPSR and other applicable legislation. They help maintain traceability, manage documentation, and coordinate any corrective actions if safety issues arise. This role ensures that even international manufacturers meet UK safety requirements and can respond effectively to any market concerns.
Are you interested in entering in the UK market with a general product? Contact us today!
References:
UK Government (2024). The General Product Safety Regulations 2005. Retrieved on 22/09/2025.
UK Government (2024). Statutory guidance – General Product Safety Regulations 2005: Great Britain. Retrieved on 22/09/2025.
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