Consumer Safety has always been one of CEN primary concerns. CEN has developed European Standards covering a wide range of consumer products and more than 30 are cited in the Official Journal of the European Union in the frame fo the General Product Safety Directive (2001/95/EC).
'Consumer products' are defined as items intended for consumers or likely to be used by consumers, even if not intended for them. Products provided in the framework of a service to consumers are also considered to be 'consumer products'.
CEN has also developed a series of European Standards in support of the Toys Safety Directive (88/378/EEC as well as 2009/48/EC).
Standards for such products are important. They are one of the means of proving that products are safe and their design fulfils the 'state of the art' of technology. As a result, manufacturers and distributors of products complying with standards can limit their liability in case of accidents.
Standards are drafted in close collaboration with ANEC, the European Association for the coordination of consumer representation.
At international level, close cooperation with ISO takes place when necessary. The ISO/Copolco policy committee sets the consumer policy.
Current Activities
CEN recently adopted the following European Commission mandates:
M/445 Standardization Mandate to CEN and CENELEC addressed to CEN and CENELEC within the framework of directive 2009/48/EC revising directive 88/378/EEC concerning the safety of toys - The work has been allocated to CEN/TC 52 "Safety of Toys" .
M/464 Standardization Mandate to CEN on the safety of Child-care articles (Cluster 1: drowning risks) : bath ring, bathing aids, bath tubs and stands - the work has been allocated to CEN/TC 352 "Child use and care articles".
M/465 Standardization Mandate to CEN on the safety of consumer-fitted, child-resistant locking devices for windows and balcony doors - the work has been allocated to CEN/TC 398 "Project Committee Child Protective Products".
Furhter mandates on child-care articles; gymnastic and stationary training equipments as well as bicycles are expected in the near future.