The General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR) came into effect on 14 December 2024. Below is a summary of the latest requirements and practical steps for compliance.

Key Highlights

• Expanded Safety Standards: The GPSR now covers a broader spectrum of products, enhancing consumer protection.

• Enhanced Accountability: Manufacturers and supply chain operators face increased responsibilities under these new rules.

• Improved Market Surveillance: Enforcement is now stricter and more uniform across all EU Member States.

• Traceability and Transparency: New obligations require robust product information management and tracking systems

Transitioning from GPSD to GPSR

Organisations must follow several steps to achieve GPSR compliance:

• Appoint an Authorised Representative: Also referred to as a Food Business Operator, Responsible Person or Market Representative. CERTLabel offers this service to ensure compliance—find out more at reviewmyproject.com.

• Compliance Reviews: Implement updated safety policies, risk management procedures, and strengthen record-keeping. CERT clients can access secure online Product Information Files for seamless documentation.

• Product Testing: Confirm product testing and certification against current standards. CERTLabel cross-checks this as part of its approval process.

• Supply Chain Coordination: Ensure all manufacturers and third parties fulfil their compliance obligations.

• Consumer Communication: Revise labelling and product details to meet GPSR requirements. Products should clearly display representation, such as CERTLabel for UK/EU exports.

• Incident Management: Put in place clear systems for reporting and corrective action.

• Training and Auditing: Maintain ongoing staff training and regular audits to foster continuous improvement.

• IT Upgrades: Enhance data systems to support compliance and reporting; CERT provides this for users exporting with us.

Key Differences: GPSD vs GPSR

Responsibilities as Market Introducer

• Ensure designs and production fully meet safety requirements.

• Carry out risk assessments and keep technical documentation with your Authorised Representative.

• Put robust traceability systems in place.

• Ensure all labels are accurate; report any safety concerns to relevant authorities.

• For online sales, register with the European Commission’s Safety Gate system.

Recent GPSR Developments

• Digital Product Passport: Improves traceability and public information access.

• Stricter Penalties: Significant fines now apply for non-compliance.

• Sustainability Focus: Increased emphasis on eco-friendly designs and materials.

Next Steps

To ensure GPSR compliance:

• Undertake detailed risk assessments and maintain an up-to-date Bill of Materials to point-of-sale packaging.

• Update design and testing processes in line with GPSR standards.

• Keep compliance documentation current, ensuring the authorised representative is cited on all products.

• Strengthen supply chain visibility and communication channels.

• CERTLabel clients receive ongoing updates for regulatory changes.

Grandfathering and Transitional Arrangements

If products are already compliant with the old GPSD and introduced to market before GPSR begins, they may remain on sale short-term under ‘grandfathering’. The interpretation of ‘on the market’ generally means once goods have cleared customs in the target country. However, be aware that such products may face scrutiny, so robust evidence of entry dates and market status is essential.

If you are looking for Authorised Representation support, we recommend you visit our quick overview of the service.