This document is an introductory guide to some of the requirements that apply to industrial automation equipment that is placed on the market or put into service in the European economic area (EEA). It does not constitute legal advice. The particular requirements that apply to a specific piece of equipment will require the supplier of the equipment to undertake a detailed and thorough analysis of all provisions that apply before then undertaking appropriate conformity assessment procedures in accordance with the legislation. The supplier of the equipment must seek his own advice on these issues and must not rely on this document alone.
In order to be placed on the market or put into service within the EEA, industrial automation equipment must be in compliance with all applicable legislation.
This legislation typically takes the form of a European directive which is then incorporated into the laws and regulations of each member state.
Further information on European directives and their relationship with national legislation, European standards, CE marking, declarations of conformity and other related matters is available in a publication titled "Guide to the Implementation of Directives Based on the New Approach and the Global Approach" (commonly referred to as the "Blue Book") which is published by the European Commission and is available from its web site.