In a landmark move aimed at reducing bureaucratic red tape and slashing millions in regulation costs, the UK Department for Business and Trade, under the leadership of Kevin Hollinrake MP, has introduced new legislation that mandates digital labelling for businesses. This innovative approach marks a significant shift from traditional physical labels to digital alternatives for import labels, offering a promising avenue for businesses to cut costs and streamline operations.
A Leap Towards Digital Transformation
The digital labelling initiative allows companies to upload crucial regulatory and manufacturing details online, eliminating the need for physical prints on products. This method is not only cost-effective but also eco-friendly, reducing paper waste and offering a faster, more flexible way to update product information. The move, made possible by Brexit, underscores the UK's commitment to adapting its regulatory framework to meet the demands of the digital age and international trade.
Industry-Wide Applause
The decision has been met with widespread approval from various sectors. Business and Trade Minister Kevin Hollinrake highlighted the government's dedication to easing the regulatory burden on businesses, facilitating growth, and job creation. The legislation follows extensive consultations and is seen as a crucial step towards making the UK's regulatory system more agile and responsive to industry needs.
The continued recognition of the CE marking for products such as toys and machinery has been particularly praised. This measure ensures that businesses can still comply with EU standards, providing greater operational flexibility. Industry leaders, including Mike Hawes of the SMMT and Stephen Phipson of Make UK, have lauded the government's approach, noting its positive implications for competitiveness, consumer costs, and manufacturing innovation.
Digital Labelling and Beyond
The legislation also introduces a 'Fast-Track UKCA' process, allowing for a seamless transition between UKCA and EU conformity assessment procedures. This initiative aims to provide long-term certainty for businesses, potentially paving the way for a future where UKCA marking becomes mandatory for certain products.
This ground breaking announcement is part of a broader 'smarter regulation' programme, aimed at ensuring UK laws and regulations are more aligned with the needs of businesses and the economy. By embracing digitalisation and offering flexibility in compliance with both UK and EU standards, the UK government is setting a new benchmark for regulatory excellence, fostering an environment where businesses can thrive in the digital age.
Legislation in Scope
The legislation introduced by the UK Department for Business and Trade affects a wide range of regulations, primarily aimed at streamlining compliance for businesses through digital labelling and the recognition of CE marking. Here's a breakdown of the regulations that are impacted by this announcement:
Department for Business and Trade (DBT) Regulations:
- Equipment for Use in Potentially Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2016/1107
- Electromagnetic Compatibility Regulations 2016/1091
- Lifts Regulations 2016/1093
- Electrical Equipment (Safety) Regulations 2016/1101
- Pressure Equipment (Safety) Regulations 2016/1105
- Pyrotechnic Articles (Safety) Regulations 2015/1553
- Recreational Craft Regulations 2017/737
- Radio Equipment Regulations 2017/1206
- Simple Pressure Vessels (Safety) Regulations 2016/1092
- Toys (Safety) Regulations 2011/1881
- Aerosol Dispensers Regulations 2009/2824
- Gas Appliances (EU Regulation) 2016/426
- Supply of Machinery (Safety) Regulations 2008/1597
- Noise Emission in the Environment by Equipment for Use Outdoors Regulations 2001/1701
- Personal Protective Equipment (EU Regulation) 2016/425
- Measuring Instruments Regulations 2016/1153
- Non-automatic Weighing Instruments Regulations 2016/1152
- Measuring Container Bottles (EEC Requirements) Regulations 1977
Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA):
- The Restriction of the Use of Certain Hazardous Substances in Electrical and Electronic Equipment Regulations 2012 (The RoHS Regulations)
Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ):
- The Ecodesign for Energy-Related Products Regulations 2010
Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) [The Health and Safety Executive (HSE)]:
- The Explosives Regulations 2014
