Link to GPSR implementation instructions:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1scLqe1kl8FZwTHz_jYsqH5qpXEXCY1dG/view?usp=sharing
Introduction
As of December 13, 2024, the new General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR) takes effect. This is a key change for all e-commerce businesses, as well as manufacturers, importers and distributors. The new regulations introduce stringent requirements to ensure the safety of products available on the EU market. What does this mean in practice for your company? We have prepared a detailed guide.
What is the GPSR regulation and who does it apply to?
The GPSR (General Product Safety Regulation) replaces previous product safety regulations, including Directive 2001/95/EC. GPSR imposes new obligations on manufacturers, importers, distributors and online trading platforms. It applies to any product intended for or used by consumers under foreseeable conditions, whether new or refurbished. The only exceptions are product groups regulated more specifically by other regulations, such as drugs or food.
Entrepreneurs who fail to comply with the new regulations could face serious consequences. Financial penalties for non-compliance with GPSR reach up to 1 million zlotys. Therefore, understanding and implementing these regulations is not only an obligation, but also to protect your business.
Obligations of manufacturers, importers and distributors
The new regulations detail the roles and responsibilities of each group of market participants:
- Manufacturers must maintain detailed technical documentation of products, including a risk analysis and complaint register. Products should bear information identifying the manufacturer, as well as clear safety instructions in the language of the country where the product is available.
- Importers must verify that the manufacturer has met all requirements. They are also required to keep technical documentation for 10 years and label products with their data.
- Distributors are responsible for checking that products are properly labeled and have the required safety instructions. If in doubt, they should immediately inform the manufacturer or importer.
Each of these groups must also ensure that communication channels are available to consumers, such as phone numbers, email addresses and dedicated sections on websites.
New challenges for online trading platforms
E-commerce platforms, such as marketplaces, have also been subject to new regulations. They are required to:
- Provide a point of contact for consumers and regulators.
- Remove hazardous products from the offer within 2 days of notification by the relevant authorities.
- Regular monitoring of hazardous product information in the Safety Gate system.
In addition, platforms must allow visibility of manufacturers' and importers' data in bids and cooperate in recalling non-compliant products from the market.
How to prepare for GPSR implementation?
Implementing GPSR requires a strategic approach and a thorough action plan. Here are some steps worth taking:
- Analyze all products in your portfolio for GPSR compliance.
- Make sure you have complete technical documentation and risk analyses for each product.
- Adapt labels and safety instructions to meet the requirements of the new regulation.
- Ensure transparency - data of the manufacturer, importer and distributor must be easily accessible to consumers.
- Introduce new communication and complaint handling procedures that meet GPSR requirements.
<frame>Nasze artykuły są tworzone automatycznie na bazie materiałów video. Pełna treść dostępna jest bezpośrednio w filmie powyżej.<frame>
Summary
The GPSR regulation is a challenge, but also an opportunity to organize company processes and build greater consumer trust. Preparing for these changes is especially important for e-commerce companies, which must meet new requirements for product safety and transparency. If you need support in adapting your business to GPSR, contact the experts - legal counsel Milena Dorobek-Lis and her team at MDL Law Firm, who specialize in e-commerce legal services.
Remember that compliance with the new regulations is not only a requirement, but also a way to keep your customers safe and avoid financial risks. Prepare your company today!
