The new directive identifies three classes of PPE based on the level of risk: Category I: Simple PPE, Category II: Intermediate PPE and Category III: Complex PPE. Below are the key dates for regulation transition as well as the implications of these on manufacturers, suppliers and distributors.
Time line for transition
• Between April 2018 and April 2019 manufacturers can supply products within the EU certified to both the Directive and the Regulation.
• From April 2019 new products can only be placed on the market certified to the new Regulation.
• EC-Type Certificates to old PPE Directive remain valid until 2023 unless they expire before that date
The main changes and what this means for end users
• Bespoke items of PPE are now included in the directive
• An EC Declaration of Conformity must be made available with every item of PPE or a link provided to where it can be obtained
• Manufacturers are required to put their name and address on the item of PPE (with the exception of gloves due to size of product) and also within the EC DOC
• The responsibilities of both manufacturers and importers are clearly outlined
• A copy of the product risk assessment must be included with the technical file submitted for certification
• An EU examination certificate will be issued with a compulsory five year validity. If the item of PPE does not change, manufacturers will only be required to re-certify products up to 12 months before the expiry date of the certificate.
If you would like to know more about the changes, please read our accompanying download here.
Tilsatec has over 135 years of experience supplying high performance materials for arm and hand protection. We distribute our products to worldwide markets including the UK, Europe and North America. For further details about the range of PPE or to place an order please contact us on: info@tilsatec.com or 01924 375742.