Brussels, 07/01/2005 (Agence Europe) - A revised directive (published in the Official Journal) on electromagnetic compatibility (EMC), which governs the electromagnetic emissions of electric and electronic devices and their immunity to interference ensuring, for example, that a microwave oven does not interfere with the reception of a radio broadcast or that a radio alarm clock does not start up if one uses a mobile phone close by, should reduce costs for manufacturers while increasing information and documentation on products for inspection authorities. It confirms the intentions of Industry Commissioner Günter Verheugen to make the cutting of red tape for manufacturers one of his priorities. The revised EMC Directive abolishes two cumbersome conformity assessment procedures for producers, which required the mandatory involvement of an independent inspection and verification body, thus reducing costs. It allows manufacturers to be solely responsible for establishing the conformity of their products and for giving the "EC" mark. The directive will come into force in the Member States within the next three years.
In addition to simplification of conformity procedures, the main elements of the revised directive, as a press release states, are: (1) Stricter requirements concerning information and documentation. The revised directive requires manufacturers or their agents to provide inspection authorities with additional means of control, such as clear identification of a product (type, serial number, etc.), and indication of the name and address of the manufacturer or his agent and, if necessary, of the importer established in the territory of the European Union. This improved product traceability will make it easier for the authorities to monitor the market. Also, by eliminating products for which it is difficult at the moment to identify the origin, competition will be on a fairer basis. (2) Special regime for fixed installations. It is harder to check the conformity of installations of this type due to changes over time, alterations, difficulties in implementation, etc. However, it is essential that they comply with the directive's protection requirements in order to limit potential interference and to create a common electromagnetic environment in the European Union. This regime will provide a harmonised regulatory framework for large localised systems, like a power plant, but also for distribution systems like telecommunications or power distribution networks, which are often trans-European. (3) Compliance with new-approach concepts. Ten years of applying the directive have demonstrated the effectiveness of the new-approach concepts in the field of electromagnetic compatibility. These principles restrict regulatory harmonisation to essential public-interest requirements and allow manufacturers to ensure the conformity of their products by applying "harmonised" standards. Such standards, drawn up by European standardisation bodies, are regularly updated and make it possible to ensure a high degree of protection without amending the regulatory framework.
The new revised EMC Directive 2004/108/EC replaces Directive 89/336/EEC which is published in the Official Journal No L 390/2004. See: http: //europa.eu.int/eur-lex/lex/LexUriServ/site/en/oj/2004/1_390/1_39020041231en00240037.pdf For further information: http: //europa.eu.int/comm/enterprise/electr_equipment/emc/.