In brief
The UKCA marking is the British conformity mark for products placed on the market in Great Britain, comparable to the CE marking.
Contents
What is UKCA marking?
UKCA stands for UK Conformity Assessed. The mark was introduced after the United Kingdom left the EU and applies to products placed on the market in Great Britain, i.e. England, Wales and Scotland. Owing to special arrangements, EU rules and CE marking continue to apply in Northern Ireland, supplemented where necessary by a UKNI marking.
In terms of content, British product legislation is closely based on the former EU directives, for example for machinery, low voltage or EMC. Instead of an EU declaration of conformity, a UK Declaration of Conformity is drawn up; instead of harmonised standards, designated British standards apply; and instead of notified bodies, there are Approved Bodies. The UK government has extended the recognition of CE marking for many product areas; which rules currently apply to a product group should always be checked against the official UK guidance.
For procurement and maintenance, UKCA is relevant when spare parts are delivered to sites in Great Britain or machinery is relocated there. British legislation is authoritative; this entry does not constitute legal advice.
In practice: maintenance and procurement
For deliveries to British sites, clarify in advance whether CE is still accepted for the product group concerned or whether UKCA is required. Where appropriate, ask the supplier for both declarations of conformity so that the documentation for plants in the EU and in Great Britain is complete.
Synonyms and abbreviations: UK Conformity Assessed · UKCA mark · UKNI marking · UK Declaration of Conformity
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between UKCA and CE?
CE marking shows conformity with EU law for the European single market. UKCA marking shows conformity with British law for the market in Great Britain. The requirements are often similar in content, but the procedures differ in details such as the declaration of conformity, recognised standards and conformity assessment bodies. Whether CE is still sufficient in Great Britain depends on the product group.
Does UKCA also apply in Northern Ireland?
No, in Northern Ireland the EU product rules and therefore CE marking continue to apply for many product areas. If a UK conformity assessment body is used for a product, the UKNI marking may also be required. UKCA marking alone is generally not sufficient for the Northern Ireland market. The current official guidance is authoritative in each case.
Do spare parts for plants in Great Britain need UKCA marking?
That depends on whether the spare part itself falls under a British product regulation, for example as electrical equipment or a safety component, and whether CE is still recognised for that product group. Simple components without their own marking obligation are often not affected. In case of doubt, the manufacturer or the competent British authority should be consulted.