Jan 16, 2025
What is GPSR?
From December 13, 2024, the EU General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR) will apply in all EU countries, replacing the current General Product Safety Directive (GPSD). This introduces significant changes for product safety, affecting products already covered by other specific EU legislation as well as those previously regulated under the GPSD.
Who does GPSR apply to?
GPSR applies to all businesses that sell physical products to consumers in the EU, regardless of whether they are manufactured inside or outside the EU. This includes:
• Manufacturers
• Importers
• Distributors
• Online marketplaces
If you sell products in the EU, you are responsible for ensuring they meet GPSR requirements.
What changes with GPSR?
Compared to the previous GPSD, GPSR introduces stricter requirements in key areas:
Risk assessments – Businesses must document risk evaluations for their products.
Online marketplace responsibility – Platforms like Amazon and eBay must take stronger action to remove dangerous products.
Stronger enforcement by authorities – National regulators have more power to remove unsafe products from the market.
Improved product traceability – It must be clear who produced and imported a product.
Faster response to dangerous products – Businesses must report safety issues within 2 days via the EU’s Safety Gate system.
What do businesses need to do to comply with GPSR?
If your company sells products in the EU, you need to:
Conduct documented risk assessments for your products.
Ensure product labeling and information are correct and up to date.
Have a plan to report and handle safety issues quickly.
Keep track of your supply chain and be able to document where your products come from.
What happens if you don’t comply with GPSR?
Non-compliance with GPSR can result in:
Product recalls
Fines and legal penalties
Bans on selling the product in the EU
What products are affected by GPSR?
The GPSR covers a broad range of consumer products sold in the EU, including those already regulated under specific EU product safety laws. This includes:
1. Consumer Electronics – Products like smartphones, home appliances, and smart devices.
2. Toys – Products covered under the Toy Safety Directive will now have to meet additional safety and traceability requirements.
3. Textiles – New sustainability and traceability requirements will apply to clothing and footwear.
4. Cosmetics and Personal Care Products – These products will require enhanced risk assessments and labeling.
5. Furniture – Products like sofas and chairs must meet new safety documentation and traceability standards.
