Understanding the General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR)

All consumer products must be assessed for safety before being placed on the market. Manufacturers are required to document foreseeable hazards, including risks to vulnerable groups such as children and the elderly. A maintained technical file is a core obligation under GPSR.

Products must carry clear identification — including the manufacturer’s name, contact address, and a product identifier such as a batch or serial number. Importers and distributors share responsibility for ensuring traceability throughout the supply chain, including for products sold online.

Companies must actively monitor product safety after market placement and have documented procedures for handling incidents, withdrawals, and recalls. Dangerous products must be reported through the EU Safety Gate portal. Record retention is required for a minimum of 10 years.