When it comes to lifting equipment and heavy machinery, safety is non-negotiable. In the UK and Europe businesses must not only protect their team but they must also comply with legal obligations that guarantee, all equipment placed on the market meets strict safety and quality standards. One of the key elements in this process is the CE Declaration of Conformity, a requirement for many types of machinery and safety equipment sold within the European Economic Area (EEA).
Although the UK has left the European Union, the CE mark still plays an important role, particularly for products that are sold in or imported from EU countries. In this blog, we'll explore what the CE declaration means, why it matters for lifting gear, and how UK Lifting supports clients in maintaining compliance and peace of mind.
The CE (Conformité Européenne) marking is a certification that states a product meets the EU safety, health, and environmental protection requirements. For many products, including lifting equipment, CE marking is not optional—it is a legal requirement if the equipment is to be sold or used within the EEA.
The Declaration of Conformity is a formal document issued by the manufacturer. It states that the product complies with all relevant European directives and regulations, such as:
This declaration must accompany the product and be available for inspection by regulatory authorities or buyers.
Lifting equipment, by its very nature, involves considerable risk. Whether it's a hoist, crane, chain sling or lifting beam, the gear must be rigorously tested and prove that it is safe for use.
In the UK and across the EEA, CE marking is vital for lifting gear because it:
Using lifting equipment without a valid CE declaration not only compromises safety but may also lead to legal consequences, including fines, liability issues, and enforcement actions from health and safety authorities.
Since the UK's departure from the EU, a new marking system has been introduced: the UKCA (UK Conformity Assessed) marking. This now applies to goods placed on the market in Great Britain (England, Scotland, and Wales). However, CE marking is still recognised in Northern Ireland and remains relevant for UK companies exporting to or importing from the EU.
For lifting equipment used in or sourced from the EEA, CE marking and an accompanying declaration of conformity remain essential. Many UK businesses continue to rely on CE-marked equipment, especially those with European supply chains or those working with multinational partners.
At UK Lifting, we stay informed on all changes in legislation and can guide our clients through compliance requirements, including the transition between CE and UKCA markings.
A proper CE Declaration of Conformity will typically include:
This documentation should always be supplied with the equipment and kept on file for a minimum of 10 years.
At UK Lifting, we understand that safety and compliance are critical concerns for our clients. That's why we only supply lifting equipment that meets or exceeds the legal requirements, including CE marking and all relevant declarations.
When you purchase lifting gear from UK Lifting, you can be confident that:
Our commitment to quality and safety means you can focus on your operations, knowing that your equipment meets the required standards.
Failing to ensure that lifting equipment is CE marked and properly declared can have serious consequences:
Which is why it is essential to work with a supplier who can guarantee that the equipment they sell is compliant and properly documented.
In today's health-and-safety-conscious environment, businesses cannot afford to overlook equipment compliance. The CE Declaration of Conformity is vital in confirming that your lifting equipment is safe, legal, and ready for use.
Whether you're purchasing a new hoist or replacing a chain sling, make sure you choose a supplier that prioritises safety and certification. At UK Lifting, we take care of the compliance, so you can focus on your business with confidence.
Get in touch with UK Lifting today to speak with our expert team. We're here to help you choose the right equipment, meet your legal obligations, and keep your workforce safe.
