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What is chemical testing?
Chemical testing is the process of determining what a specific product has been made of. It helps companies and manufacturers to make sure they manufacture products that fully conform to international safety requirements. Chemistry lab testing allows manufacturers to find out how they can use the product for its intended purpose and what is the normal product life.
The main types of chemical tests are:
- Metals testing
- Material testing
- Composition analysis
- Regulatory testing
- Trace contamination detection
Why is the chemical test important?
Chemical testing is one of the most important procedures for manufacturers. It helps them determine the material quality by analyzing its composition. Moreover, this type of testing confirms if a product entirely conforms to international requirements and standards.
Which Products Need a Chemical Analysis?
Many products and services are subject to chemical testing. Below are the main categories of them:
- Textiles
- Biopolymers
- Paints and pigments
- Water
- Leather
- Metal products
- Plastic and rubber products
- Adhesives
- Wooden and paper products
Chemical analysis is obligatory for the following industries:
- Construction and power
- Agriculture and food
- Retail and consumer goods
- Hardlines and softlines
- Chemicals and environment
- Manufacturing and industrial sector
- Textiles and footwear, etc.
Our services in the field of chemical testing and analysis
We use only advanced technologies to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the results. Our experts work according to the ISO 17025 standard. It sets out specific requirements for the competency of all calibration and testing laboratories that want to confirm their ability to convey trustworthy sampling and calibration results and provide reliable chemical testing.
360Comliance experts provide the following services in the field of chemical testing:
Prices – fixed costs from application to certificate.
Time frames – faster TTM turnaround.
Full turnkey project management.
Technical support – Pre-testing and debugging.
Testing & certification: CE marking, FCC, UL-STD, MiC-Japan, ACMA-Australia, NOM-Mexico, Anatel-Brazil, etc.
Global market access – covering ~ 195 countries.
Feel free to get in touch with 360Comliance experts for preliminary free-of-charge consulting that will help you define the right strategic approach with the faster TTM and the most cost-effective solution.
Europe: RoHS Testing (XRF Screening) & Certification
RoHS Certification is obligatory for all manufacturers who want to sell electrical products in the EU market. Chemical analysis labs perform such testing by several different methods, including non-destructive analysis with the use of X-ray fluorescence, wet chemical analysis, or XRF screening. The RoHS Directive prohibits some chemicals that are used in the production of electronic goods or their components. All European companies and market participants must comply with its requirements, starting from manufacturers and ending with distributors. Learn more about RoHS Certification with the 360Compliance professional team and benefit from the help of experts.
Europe: REACH & SVHC Testing, Registration & Certification
The REACH standard stands for Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of Chemicals. It is one of the European Union regulations applicable to most consumer products. The document requires companies to report on substances used throughout the supply chain and present in products. This certificate confirms the safety of your products and provides access to the EU market. 360Compliance experts will help you comply with all the REACH requirements and successfully enter the EU market with fully certified and safe products.
USA: California Proposition 65 testing
Since 1986, the California Proposition 65 list has been updated and published annually, and currently, it includes over 950 substances that can be divided into two big categories: carcinogens and reproductive toxicants. If your product contains some of the substances listed in this document, you must label it appropriately and make a clear warning for customers. Non-compliance with these rules leads first to a 60-day Notice of Violation and then may result in a huge financial and reputational loss. 360Compliance team can help you to find out all the required details about your products and their conformity to Prop 65.
USA: CPSIA/ CPSC Testing & Certification
CPSC Certification was introduced for both children’s and non-children’s products to verify their safety. Compliance with its requirements must ensure that the customer is not exposed to any mechanical, chemical, electrical, or fire risks. The list contains over 250 products, including food and drugs, clothes and toys, household items, and many more. All these products must be tested by a third-party laboratory approved by the Consumer Product Safety Commission, and based on the testing results, the manufacturer shall issue the certificate. 360Compliance experts will help you pass the CPSC Certification and launch your products in the market as soon as possible.
Canada: Protection Act Law certification
According to the Protection Act Law, all products that are represented on the Canadian market are subject to certification by the Canadian Standards Association (CSA). Its mark confirms that the new product has been thoroughly tested according to the obligatory standards and regulations. CSA standards guarantee that consumers can safely use all new products in all ten provinces and two territories of Canada. Our experts will help you to get to know all the necessary details about your goods and their compliance with Protection Act Law.
E-Waste (WEEE, Batteries, and Packaging) Registration and Collection Plan
Waste of electrical and electronic equipment is known worldwide as E-waste. It is considered the largest source of waste on the planet. The key goal of E-waste legislation is to defend consumers’ health and the environment through proper management of all types of WEEE. It includes such stages as collection, sorting, storage, transportation, recycling, and proper removal of E-waste. It concerns such EEE as household appliances, monitoring and control instruments, lighting equipment, IT equipment, medical devices, etc. 360Compliance team will help you to manage your WEEE, batteries, and packaging needs in the USA, EU countries, Canada, and other countries.
Canada: CCPSA Consumers’ Safety
On June 20, 2011, the Canada Consumer Product Safety Act (CCPSA) took effect in Canada. According to it, retailers, producers, advertisers, and distributors are strictly prohibited to sell goods that can cause irreparable harm to the health of Canadians. To verify their safety, such products as sporting goods, household chemicals, toys, clothing, paints, mattresses and other categories are subject to chemical testing. The CCPSA does not apply to such categories of goods as food, vehicles, animals, and drugs because they are regulated by other Canadian laws. 360Compliance experts will help you to find out the details about your products and their compliance with the CCPSA.
Benefits of our services
Using 360Compliance services for chemistry testing, you will get the following benefits:
- Raising the quality and market competitiveness of your products.
- Reducing time and development costs for testing new products.
- Ensuring compliance with safety standards and legal requirements.
Other Certifications
CE Certification
Why is CE Certification Important? CE certification confirms that the product entered the market legally, has all the permits, and does not pose any threat to human health or the safety and integrity of the environment. Thus, the CE mark signals both buyers and official regulators about the successful completion of all testing and certifying procedures. What Countries Require CE Compliance? The mandatory CE certification applies to products entering the market of all 30 countries of the European Economic Area (EEA). It also covers Switzerland and Turkey, the United Kingdom, which have signed a number of bilateral agreements with the EU, including the CE marking requirement. Additionally, the UK indefinitely recognizes the EU's CE mark for various manufactured goods placed on the UK market. European Economic Area Countries Other Countries Austria Denmark Hungary Lithuania Portugal Switzerland Belgium Estonia Iceland Luxembourg Romania Turkey Bulgaria Finland Ireland Malta Slovakia UK Croatia France Italy Netherlands Slovenia Republic of Cyprus Germany Latvia Norway Spain Czech Republic Greece Liechtenstein Poland Sweden Which Products Need a CE Mark? To determine whether a product requires CE certification, manufacturers should consult the relevant EU directives and harmonized standards. Notified bodies, independent organizations authorized to assess product compliance with EU directives, can also provide guidance. Product Category Examples Electrical equipment Household appliances, power tools, lighting, cables Toys Dolls, action figures, toy cars, construction sets Machinery Industrial machinery, agricultural machinery, construction machinery Medical devices Surgical instruments, implants, diagnostic equipment Construction products Cement, steel, windows, doors Personal protective equipment Safety helmets, goggles, gloves, boots Pressure equipment Gas cylinders, boilers, pressure cookers Gas appliances Cookers, heaters, gas water heaters Aerosols Spray paint, deodorants, insecticides Telecommunications equipment Mobile phones, routers, modems Radio equipment Radios, televisions, Bluetooth devices Lifts Escalators, elevators, dumbwaiters Explosive devices Fireworks, detonators, ammunition Products That May Be Sold Without a CE Mark Not all products imported into the listed countries require CE marking certification. In particular, goods belonging to the following categories, which are covered by other Directives, are subject to a different type of certification: Chemical products Cosmetics Food products Pharmaceuticals How to Obtain CE Certification? Obtaining a CE certificate involves a systematic process: Identify Applicable Directives The Directives include general safety requirements for products placed on the market. The specific parameters and technical requirements are detailed in the harmonized standards. If a product does not fall under any Directives requiring CE marking, it must still comply with a document outlining general safety requirements. Directive Number Product Category 2014/35/EU Low Voltage Directive (LVD) 2014/30/EU Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) 2014/29/EU Simple Pressure Vessels Directive 2009/125/EC Ecodesign for Energy-related Products 2000/14/EC Noise Emission for Outdoor Equipment 2009/48/EC Toy Safety Regulation (EU) No 305/2011 Construction Products 2006/42/EC Machinery Regulation (EU) 2016/425 Personal Protective Equipment 2014/31/EU Non-automatic Weighing Instruments Regulation (EU) 2016/426 Appliances Burning Gaseous Fuels 2014/28/EU Explosives for Civil Uses Regulation (EU) 2017/745 Medical Devices 90/385/EEC Active Implantable Medical Devices 98/79/EC In Vitro Diagnostic Medical Devices 2014/34/EU Equipment and Protective Systems for Use in Explosive Atmospheres (ATEX) 2014/90/EU Marine Equipment Directive 2013/53/EU Recreational Craft 2014/33/EU Lifts 2014/68/EU Pressure Equipment 2014/53/EU Radio Equipment Regulation (EU) 2016/424 Cableway Installations to Carry Persons 2014/32/EU Measuring Instruments 2013/29/EU Pyrotechnic Articles 2011/65/EU Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) Identify the requirements for the product Each Directive specifies essential requirements that a product must meet. To demonstrate conformity, manufacturers must identify applicable 'harmonized European Norms' (hENs), which are standards that offer a presumption of conformity to the essential requirements. These standards vary depending on the product's classification and intended use. Harmonized standards, available on the European Commission’s website, simplify compliance through clear frameworks. Determine if third-party assessment is needed Certain directives may require third-party assessment by a Notified Body (NB), an organization authorized by European authorities. For example, the Medical Devices directive and others mandate the use of an NB. However, the EU has reduced the number of products requiring NB assessment, placing more responsibility on manufacturers. Assess Product Conformity Conduct a thorough assessment of your product to ensure it conforms to the essential requirements outlined in the relevant directives. This step may involve testing and verification processes to demonstrate that your product meets the necessary safety and environmental standards. Compile a Technical File Create a comprehensive technical file that documents every aspect of your product's design, development, and manufacturing process. This technical file, also known as the Technical Construction File, should include technical descriptions, drawings, circuit diagrams, bills of materials, specifications, test reports, and other relevant information. The file serves as evidence of conformity and must be maintained for up to 10 years after the last unit is manufactured. MAKE A DECLARATION AND AFFIX THE CE MARK When satisfied that the product conforms to the applicable CE Marking Directives, the manufacturer must complete a Declaration of Conformity. It includes information about the product, directives, standards applied, and the responsible party in the company. Following this, affix the CE mark visibly on the product, signaling compliance with EU standards. This is the final stage, after which the product may be launched to the EU and EEA markets. Responsibility of Manufacturers for CE Certification To complete the standard procedure for obtaining the CE mark, manufacturers must find out which EU Directive regulates the access of products of their category to the market and check compliance with all regulations. After that, a conformity assessment is carried out, based on which a technical file is prepared. Further, the EU-authorized body examines the documents, and the manufacturer issues the EC Declaration of Conformity (DoC). When all documents are certified and the CE mark is received, the manufacturer can label with this mark their products and packaging. Responsibility of Distributors for Products with a CE Mark Distributors of goods in the EU market must ensure that the CE conformity mark has not yet expired and that the certificate itself is not fake. They also check the placement of the stamp on the product or its packaging since marking is the responsibility of the manufacturer. What is the Advantage of CE Certification? There are several advantages to CE certification, including: Free movement of goods within the EEA Allows manufacturers to freely circulate their products within the EEA without facing additional technical barriers to trade. Increased market access CE certification can help manufacturers gain access to new markets in the EEA, as well as in other countries that recognize the EC marking. Enhanced product safety Helps to ensure that products meet high standards of safety and environmental protection. Improved consumer confidence CE certification indicates independent compliance with EU safety requirements, boosting consumer confidence. Become CE Certified with 360Compliance The CE marking procedure can be tedious and incomprehensible to non-professionals. However, the 360Compliance team will help you pass all stages of certification quickly, competently, and successfully. You will receive full project management with no hassle. You are also guaranteed technical support and a transparent pricing policy. To start the testing & certification process for obtaining a CE stamp, contact the 360Compliance team in any convenient way and get all the answers and instantly initiate the certification procedure. Frequently Asked Questions About CE Marking For How Long is a CE Certificate Valid? For each product group, a certain validity period is established, but in most cases, it is 3 years. After that, you need to go through the re-certification procedure. However, there are products for which the CE label is valid for 10 years or more. What are the Penalties for the Absence of a CE Compliance Certificate? Punishment for selling goods without the certificates in countries where the CE marking is mandatory varies widely from administrative to criminal liability. The specific article of the law that will be applied depends on the damage that a given product can cause to people or the environment. How to Get a CE Certificate? To obtain the CE stamp, it is necessary to go through a risk assessment procedure for the products offered. For this, you need to study the standards of the specific Directive that regulates access to the market for this type of products, make up a technical file, and pass testing. When all permits are issued, CE marking can be applied to the offered products. How to Authenticate a CE Certificate? You can authenticate a CE label using the official database. Also, it is possible to contact the official authority that issued the certificate and request details on this product. If it turns out that this product is not registered with official institutions, you are dealing with fake certification.
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EMC Directive 2014/30/EU
Do you manufacture or sell electrical or electronic equipment in the European Union (EU)? If so, you'll need to ensure your products comply with the Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) Directive 2014/30/EU. Wondering how you can streamline the compliance process to ensure your products meet the EU's stringent electromagnetic compatibility requirements? 360 Compliance is here to guide you through every step, ensuring your products not only comply but thrive in the European market. What is CE EMC Certification? CE EMC Certification is a mark that indicates a product's compliance with Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) requirements in the European Union. EMC is crucial because electronic devices emit electromagnetic waves during operation, and without proper EMC measures, these emissions can lead to Electromagnetic Interference (EMI). The CE mark, which stands for Conformité Européenne, is a mandatory certification for products sold within the European Economic Area (EEA). It signifies that a product meets the essential EMC standards set by the European Union to ensure that it won't cause or be susceptible to electromagnetic interference. This interference could affect the proper functioning of other nearby electronic devices. The certification process is guided by Directive 2014/30/EU, which outlines the specific EMC requirements that products must meet to obtain the CE mark. This directive establishes the legal framework for electromagnetic compatibility and mandates that manufacturers thoroughly test their products for compliance. The goal is to guarantee that electronic devices can coexist harmoniously in the European market without causing disruption or compromise in functionality. Which Products Need the CE EMC Mark? If your product falls into the category of devices that can emit electromagnetic waves during operation, it likely requires the CE EMC mark. Here are some examples of products that typically need this certification: Electrical Appliances: Household appliances such as washing machines, refrigerators, and microwave. Information Technology Equipment: Computers, laptops, servers, and networking equipment. Consumer Electronics: This includes a broad range of devices like televisions, audio equipment, and gaming consoles. Medical Devices: Equipment used in the medical field, such as diagnostic machines and monitoring devices. Telecommunications Equipment: Phones, routers, and other communication devices. Industrial Machinery: Various types of machinery used in industrial settings, like manufacturing equipment and automation systems. Lighting Products: From simple light bulbs to complex lighting systems. Electronic Toys: Children's toys that incorporate electronic components or emit electromagnetic signals during play. Why is EMC Directive Important? Ensuring Market Access: Legal Compliance: CE EMC Certification is a legal requirement for placing products in the EU market. Non-compliance can result in serious consequences, including fines and withdrawal of products from the market. Enhanced Market Credibility: Products with CE EMC Certification signal adherence to high-quality standards, enhancing your brand's credibility and customer trust. Quality Assurance: Product Reliability: EMC Certification ensures that your products can function in the presence of electromagnetic disturbances, making them more reliable. Reduced Interference: Certification reduces the risk of your products causing interference with other electronic devices, preventing potential issues for end-users. How to Get CE EMC Certification? Step-by-Step Guidance: Consultation: Initiate the process with a consultation to understand your product and specific certification needs. Pre-assessment: Identify potential EMC issues and address them before formal testing to expedite the certification process. Testing and Evaluation: Utilize our accredited laboratories for comprehensive emissions and immunity testing. Documentation Support: Our team assists in preparing the necessary technical documentation required for certification. Declaration of Conformity: Once certified, we help you issue the Declaration of Conformity and affix the CE mark to your product. How long will testing take? The EMC CE certification procedure takes 4 to 6 weeks on average. If the product belongs to an industry that is regulated by other directives (e.g. CE RED), it is subject to additional tests, which increases the time required. Manufacturer's Responsibilities Related to EMC CE Certification The company that develops a product shall design it according to EMC CE norms and confirm compliance with the norms by independent laboratory tests. It is also required to: indicate the actual electromagnetic radiation level in the documentation; warn about the possible hazards associated with the use of the device; provide the user with operating instructions; indicate geographical restrictions on the use of the product, if any; keep a register of complaints; store certificates and declarations of conformity for at least 10 years; cooperate with local authorities and provide product samples to the authorities. Quick and Easy EMC CE Certification with 360Compliance Obtaining CE EMC Certification is not just a regulatory obligation; it is a strategic move to ensure your products' quality, compliance, and market competitiveness. By investing in certification, your business can access new markets, build trust with customers, and stay ahead in the dynamic world of electronics. At 360Compliance, we simplify the process, offering expert guidance and tailored solutions to ensure your products meet the highest standards of electromagnetic compatibility. Contact us to get transparent pricing, clear timelines, and technical support at all stages of the procedure.
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CE Mark Medical Device
Do you manufacture or plan to sell medical devices in the European Union (EU)? If so, obtaining CE marking for medical devices is essential for legal market access. This signifies compliance with the Medical Devices Regulation (MDR) 2017/745. Looking for a partner to demystify the CE marking process and ensure your medical devices comply with EU regulations? At 360Compliance, we're here to provide guidance and support to address any questions you may have. What is CE MD Certification? CE MD certification is a mandatory requirement for all medical devices that are sold in the European Union. The CE mark is a symbol that indicates that a product has met all of the applicable EU directives and regulations. To obtain CE marking for medical devices, manufacturers must adhere to the regulatory framework outlined in the Medical Devices Regulation (MDR) or the In Vitro Diagnostic Regulation (IVDR). The primary objective of CE approval for medical devices is to ensure the safety, effectiveness, and alignment with the needs of patients and healthcare professionals. The process is regulated by EU Directive 2017/745 and relevant industry regulations, including 90/385/EEC, 93/42/EEC, 98/79/EC, and 722/2012. Which Products Require MDR CE Marking? CE MD marking is mandatory for a wide range of medical devices, including but not limited to: Diagnostic Equipment; Implants; Surgical Instruments; Monitoring Devices; Dental Products; Rehabilitation Equipment. Manufacturers must ensure their products align with specific classifications and requirements outlined in the applicable directives. Which products do not need the CE mark medical device? CE medical device certification is unnecessary if the product does not meet the definition of a medical device outlined in EU Directive 2017/745 (MDR). In that case, other industry regulations, like those governing radio frequency or electromagnetic radiation, are applicable. Additionally, products can be sold without a CE certificate if alternative standards have been set for them, as seen with medicines, food products, cosmetics, and chemicals. CE Certification Process for Medical Devices The CE certification process for medical devices involves several key steps: Legal Requirement CE marking is mandatory for medical devices under the EU Medical Devices Regulation (MDR) or the In Vitro Diagnostic Medical Devices Regulation (IVDR), depending on the nature of the product. Conformity Assessment To obtain CE marking, manufacturers must undergo a conformity assessment, which involves demonstrating that the medical device complies with the relevant essential requirements and standards. Particularly the IEC 60601 series, which specifically addresses the safety and essential performance of medical electrical equipment. Classification of Devices Classifying devices involves categorizing medical devices into different classes based on their risk level. The classification determines the conformity assessment procedure that the manufacturer must follow. Technical Documentation Manufacturers must create and maintain technical documentation supporting the conformity of the medical device. This documentation should cover aspects such as design, manufacturing, risk assessment, and labeling. Notified Bodies In many cases, a Notified Body, an independent third-party organization, is involved in the conformity assessment process. The Notified Body assesses the technical documentation and issues a certificate if the requirements are met. Post-Market Surveillance CE marking is not a one-time event. Manufacturers must continue to monitor their products after they enter the market. Post-market surveillance involves tracking the device's performance, addressing any safety concerns, and updating documentation as needed. Unique Device Identification (UDI) The EU MDR and IVDR require the use of a Unique Device Identification system, allowing for traceability and improved post-market surveillance. The timeframe for issuing the certificate varies depending on the niche and the application of the device. The average time for a Class A device is 4 to 8 weeks. Clinical testing of Class B and C devices can take several months. Benefits of CE Certification for Medical Devices Market Access Achieving CE certification opens the doors to the vast European market, allowing manufacturers to distribute and sell their medical devices within the EU. Compliance with Regulations CE certification ensures that your medical device complies with the stringent regulations and standards set by the European authorities, fostering trust among healthcare professionals and end-users. Enhanced Reputation Displaying the CE mark on your medical devices demonstrates a commitment to quality and safety, enhancing your brand's reputation in the competitive healthcare industry. Risk Mitigation Compliance with CE mark medical device requirements helps mitigate legal and financial risks associated with non-compliance, ensuring that your products meet the highest safety and performance standards. Why Choose 360Compliance For CE Approval For Medical Devices? We provide a full range of CE certification services for medical devices. Our employees provide assistance with all the stages of this procedure from evaluating the legal environment and determining the class of equipment to the paperwork and cooperation with authorized bodies. We guarantee transparent prices, clear deadlines, and convenient technical support. Get your certificate quickly and with a minimum of effort by leaving an application on our website to learn more about our services!
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