From 13 December 2024, the EU General Product Safety Regulation (EU) 2023/988 will come into effect in Northern Ireland, aligning it with EU product safety standards. This regulation requires businesses to ensure that consumer products are safe and mandates the presence of a responsible economic operator (REO) to oversee compliance. Most UK businesses trading in Northern Ireland are expected to have adequate arrangements in place, but they should review the new guidelines to ensure full compliance.
Understanding the New Regulations
The EU Regulation 2023/988, known as the General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR), mandates that all consumer products sold in Northern Ireland must meet specific safety standards. This includes products that are new, used, repaired, or reconditioned. The regulation also introduces obligations for manufacturers, importers, distributors, and online marketplaces to ensure product safety and traceability.
Role of the Responsible Economic Operator
Under the GPSR, a responsible economic operator must be established in Northern Ireland or the EU to handle compliance tasks. This role can be filled by the manufacturer, importer, authorised representative, or a fulfilment service provider. The REO is responsible for ensuring that products comply with safety standards and for communicating with market surveillance authorities about any safety incidents.
Impact on Businesses
Businesses in Great Britain selling products in Northern Ireland must ensure they have a responsible economic operator in place. The regulation formalises existing practices for many businesses already trading with the EU, but adjustments may be necessary for full compliance. The guidance provided by the UK government outlines the steps businesses need to take to meet these new requirements.
Online Marketplaces and Compliance
Online marketplaces are also subject to the GPSR, requiring them to have processes in place to ensure product safety and to cooperate with market surveillance authorities. However, the regulation does not impose a general obligation on these platforms to monitor or remove non-compliant products placed on the market before 13 December 2024.
Enforcement and Support
The UK authorities will enforce the GPSR in Northern Ireland using a proportionate, risk-based approach, focusing on providing advice and support to businesses. The aim is to minimise disruption and help businesses adapt to the new regulations. Businesses are encouraged to contact the Office for Product Safety and Standards for further guidance and support.
As the GPSR introduces significant changes, businesses should review their current compliance strategies and seek legal advice if necessary to ensure they meet the new requirements by the December 2024 deadline.
