CE Guide
As a founding member of the Spielewert eV association, it is important to me to briefly explain CE.
The SECO (State Secretariat for Economic Affairs) writes the following:
Basics
By affixing the CE marking, a manufacturer in the European Union declares that a particular product meets the applicable requirements set out in the relevant harmonization legislation, and that this has been demonstrated through the appropriate conformity assessment procedure. The CE marking guarantees that the marked products can be traded without restrictions within the EU (or EEA) and ensures consistent health, safety, and environmental protection for consumers within this area.
Is CE marking required in Switzerland?
The CE marking is generally not required in Switzerland. However, if sector-specific legislation in Switzerland requires a conformity marking, the CE marking can be affixed as an alternative to the Swiss conformity mark.
Who is responsible for affixing the CE marking?
The manufacturer or his authorized representative is responsible for affixing the CE marking.
Which products must bear the CE marking?
Whether and under what conditions a product must bear the CE marking is determined by the individual EU harmonization directives.
Overall, this means that there is no obligation to affix a CE marking in Switzerland, but it is possible to affix a CE marking as an alternative to the Swiss conformity mark .
However, if a handmade toy leaves Switzerland, this is required!
The EU writes the following:
To ensure children's safety and protection, toys must be certified according to applicable standards and bear the CE mark. The CE mark indicates that the toy meets European safety, health, and environmental protection requirements, as well as the safety requirements set out in the Toy Safety Directive 2009/48/EC.
The main reasons are:
Child protection and safety
Children are particularly sensitive to the risks that toys can pose, such as sharp edges, parts that can be swallowed, or toxic materials. CE certification ensures that the toy contains no harmful ingredients and is mechanically safe.
Requirements
Toys may not be placed on the EU market unless they meet the requirements of the EN 71 standards and bear the CE marking. These legal provisions specify various aspects, including mechanical safety (EN 71-1), flammability (EN 71-2), and chemical safety (EN 71-3).
Accidents
Accidents are prevented by testing toys according to standards to ensure they can withstand the rigors of daily use and do not contain dangerous parts that can come loose or be swallowed. This significantly reduces the likelihood of accidents and injuries.
Consumer protection
Parents and buyers can receive a signal of trust with the CE marking. They can be sure that the product has passed rigorous testing and complies with legal regulations. This protects consumers from unsafe products.
Liability and legal compliance
CE certification is not only required for producers and importers, but also protects them from legal consequences. However, if safety deficiencies arise, the manufacturer bears the responsibility for compliance with the standards and can demonstrate, with proper certification, that all necessary tests have been carried out.
In summary, CE marking of toys is crucial for child safety, compliance with legal requirements, and consumer protection. They ensure that the toy meets strict European safety standards and build confidence in product quality and safety.
Furthermore, the CE marking will be accepted throughout the EU, which will facilitate international trade. CE certification of a toy is required by law in all EU member states, as well as some other countries.
Whether sooner or later, CE certification will become mandatory in Switzerland as well. Therefore, it's better to start thinking about it now.
Sources: SECO, European Commission