The Lifting Equipment Engineers Association (Leea) – a lifting industry representative body – has welcomed the UK government Department for Business and Trade (DBT) announcement, on the 2 August 2023, of its intention to indefinitely extend the use of CE marking for businesses.

Following engagement with industry, British firms will be able to continue the use of CE marking alongside UKCA (UK Conformity Assessed marks).

The government intends to extend recognition of the CE marking beyond December 2024, when UKCA was set for entry, to prevent a cliff-edge. These updates apply to the 18 regulations that fall under the DBT. These include:

machinery
equipment for use outdoors
low-voltage electrical equipment
non-automatic weighing instruments
electromagnetic compatibility
measuring instruments
lifts
equipment for potentially explosive atmospheres (ATEX)
radio equipment
pressure equipment
simple pressure vessels
personal protective equipment (PPE)
Ross Moloney, CEO of Leea, said: “Leea has been actively engaged in raising issues concerning UKCA marking and the difficulties it presents to the lifting industry in discussions with UK government and is pleased to see that a sensible approach is being adopted that will allow businesses to adjust.”

Tina McKenzie, policy chair of the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), added: “It’s welcome to see the continued recognition of CE-marked products. This will allow time for small firms to adjust to the UKCA marking system and focus on growing their business both at home and overseas.”

Lifting association welcomes extension of CE mark recognition for businesses