The EU GPSR: A New Era for Product Safety – What UK Businesses Need to Know

Product safety might not be the hottest topic in your business strategy meeting, but with the EU General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR) coming into force on 13 December 2024, it’s time to pay attention. This shiny new regulation will replace the 2001 EU General Product Safety Directive (GPSD), updating safety rules to fit a modern world full of online shopping, smart devices, and global supply chains.

If you’re running a business in the UK and thinking, “That’s the EU’s problem, not mine,” think again. Whether you’re exporting to the EU, selling in Northern Ireland, or just wondering what this might mean for Great Britain’s own rules, the EU GPSR is one to watch.

What Is the EU GPSR, and Why Does It Matter?

The EU GPSR is a bold step towards safer products and stronger consumer protection. It reflects the times we live in—a world where shopping happens online, products are often “smart” or connected, and consumers expect transparency and safety at every turn.

The Key Changes at a glance:

1. Stricter Accountability:
   Producers, distributors, and online marketplaces now share the responsibility for ensuring product safety. No more passing the buck. Traceability will be critical.
2. Stronger Rules for Online Marketplaces:
   Platforms like Amazon and eBay are no longer neutral bystanders—they’ll need to ensure the products they host are safe.
3. Cybersecurity is Product Safety:
   In a world of connected gadgets, safety isn’t just about sharp edges or fire hazards. Under the GPSR, products that pose cybersecurity risks can be considered unsafe.
4. Robust Enforcement:
   National authorities in EU member states will have sharper tools to enforce compliance. Expect faster recalls, stricter penalties, and more robust interventions to pull unsafe products from circulation.

Hang On—We’re Not in the EU Anymore!

We are not adopting the GPSR—at least, not yet. Here in Great Britain, we’re still operating under the General Product Safety Regulations 2005, which are based on the old EU directive.

Northern Ireland, will adopt the new EU GPSR, meaning it aligns with the EU’s product safety laws.

This split regulatory approach could create headaches for businesses selling across UK regions. A product that’s compliant in Great Britain might need tweaks to meet GPSR standards for Northern Ireland and the EU.

History suggests that the UK might follow a similar path to the EU. A similar modernisation of the UK’s product safety framework seems likely in the not-too-distant future.

What Should UK Businesses Do Now?

Even if you’re not in the EU, the GPSR is a big deal. If you export to the EU or Northern Ireland, compliance will be mandatory. Here’s how to stay ahead:

1. Audit Your Products:
   Ensure they meet updated safety standards, especially if you sell anything “smart” or internet-connected.
2. Map Your Supply Chain:
   Traceability is non-negotiable under the GPSR. Make sure you know exactly where your products come from and where they’re going.
3. Prepare for Divergence:
   Understand the differences between EU GPSR rules and UK standards, particularly if you sell in the EU or Northern Ireland.
4. Keep an Eye on UK Reforms:
   The UK government may not sit on its hands forever. Stay informed about any updates to domestic product safety laws.

A Win for Consumers, but Challenges for Businesses

For consumers, the GPSR is great news. It means safer products, fewer risks, and accountability from everyone in the supply chain. For businesses, especially those trading internationally, it’s a mixed bag. Stricter rules mean more compliance costs, but they also level the playing field and build consumer trust.

Final Thoughts

The EU GPSR is a bold step towards a safer, more accountable marketplace. It reflects a modern world where we shop online, embrace tech, and expect transparency.

For businesses, the message is clear: adapt, stay informed, and embrace the changes. Safety isn’t just a regulatory box to tick—it’s a cornerstone of trust in your brand.

And for those of us in the UK? We’ll be watching closely to see if and when our own rules get the GPSR treatment. Until then, businesses need to navigate a dual system, stay compliant, and—above all—stay safe.

If you need guidance on the legal aspects of your day-to-day trading, contact us at hello@mlplaw.co.uk for expert support.