The First 10 Steps You Need to Take to Comply with GPSR
The European Union’s General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR) requires businesses to comply with certain standards to ensure consumer safety. This regulation covers both manufacturers and retailers and aims to increase the safety of products. So how can your business comply with the GPSR? Here are the first 10 steps to make the process easier:
1. Understand GPSR Requirements
The first step is to fully understand what GPSR means for your business. Identify the product categories covered by the regulation, the standards that must be adhered to, and your business’ role.
- You can attend trainings about GPSR or benefit from expert consultancy services.
2. Plan Product Safety Testing
GPSR requires you to prove that your products are safe from physical and chemical risks.
- Have your products tested in accredited laboratories that comply with international standards.
- Be prepared to document test results and present them when necessary.
3. Prepare Your Technical Documentation
GPSR requires that technical documentation for products be complete and accessible.
- Update user manuals, safety warnings, and component lists.
- Provide easy access to your product documentation by digitizing it.
4. Review Your Supply Chain
Make sure your suppliers operate in accordance with GPSR.
- Make every stage in your supply chain traceable.
- Ask your suppliers for reports on product components and manufacturing processes.
5. Update Product Labels
GPSR requires clear and accurate information to be provided on product labels.
- Make sure your labels include information such as manufacturer information, safety warnings, and usage instructions.
- All information must be in a language that consumers can easily understand.
6. Appoint a Responsible Person
Businesses operating in the EU market must appoint a “responsible person” to ensure compliance with GPSR standards.
- This person is responsible for preparing product documents and submitting them to the authorities when necessary.
- If you do not have a physical presence within the EU, you can work with an authorised representative.
7. Create a Product Recall Plan
GPSR requires that you have an effective plan in place in case your products are recalled.
- Build a communications network to reach consumers quickly.
- Identify gaps by testing your recall processes regularly.
8. Plan Vendor and Customer Training
GPSR requires providing clear information to consumers and merchants.
- Make sure your customers are informed about the safety of your products.
- Educate your vendors on GPSR standards and requirements.
9. Ensure Digital Security of Your Products
GPSR also covers the security of digital products.
- Ensure timely delivery of software updates to consumers.
- Conduct regular testing to detect vulnerabilities in digital products.
10. Continuous Auditing and Development
Complying with GPSR is not a one-time process – check that your business is compliant on an ongoing basis.
- Keep up with regulatory changes and update your business processes.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of your processes by conducting internal audits.
Conclusion
Complying with GPSR is an important step in both meeting legal requirements and increasing customer confidence. By following the 10 steps above, you can ensure your business is compliant with GPSR requirements and can operate seamlessly in the EU market.
