June 2, 2009 — Manufacturers now have a cost-effective way to attain both a proof of compliance to the LVD and a GS Mark with the TÜV Rheinland GS S1 Certificate. While the GS Mark and CE Marking are mutually exclusive, combining the two further expands a product’s marketability. Regarded as a passport to Europe and symbol of free trade, the CE Marking demonstrates a product meets the minimum consumer safety, health and environmental requirements as outlined by the European Directive. The GS Mark proves the product’s full compliance with the German Equipment Safety Law, showing that the product meets all electrical, chemical and ergonomic safety requirements. As consumer concerns over product safety continue to linger, more and more manufacturers are seeking a GS Mark for their products.
In fact, 80% of products bearing a CE-marking also carry the GS Mark to demonstrate and differentiate the product’s additional qualities, a trend in opposition to other marks in the European Union. The GS S1 Certificate demonstrates full compliance with both the German Equipment Safety Act and the Low Voltage Directive (LVD), a minimum EU requirement, with a statement that the product has complied with Annex I of the LVD (2006/95/EEC). Additionally, the certificate can be used in connection with the manufacturer’s EC declaration of conformity, according to Annex III of the LVD. “Manufacturers are finding the TÜV Rheinland GS S1 Certificate to be the de facto certificate for acceptance into Europe,” according to Dan Sullivan, TÜV Rheinland’s Product Safety Division Manager.
“Combining the GS and proof of compliance to the LVD into one certificate is a value-added cost benefit to the manufacturer while boosting the product’s credibility and marketability across the EU.”TÜVRheinland delivers premier independent testing, assessment, and certification services to help companies gain access into global markets. Boasting an international network across six continents, the company’s in-country experts ease the path to compliance with cost-effective pricing and quick turnaround times. The $1.5 billion corporation is comprised of an international network of more than 13,300 employees in 61 countries and serves most industry sectors and markets worldwide.
