The new EU Low Voltage Directive has been implemented since April 20, 16.

(1) Background introduction:

The latest Low Voltage Directive (LVD) 2014/35/EU was published in the Official Gazette of the European Union (OJ) on March 29, 2014. This Directive will replace the original Low Voltage Directive 2006/95/EC. The original directive will be repealed on 20 April 2016.

(2) The new instruction 2014/35/EU has the same scope and security purpose as the original instruction 2006/95/EC. The differences are as follows:

1. The new directive clarifies that it provides goods by means of remote sales, whether manufactured in the EU or imported new or second-hand electrical products from third countries.

2. The customized assessment kit and its development equipment used by professionals are not within the scope of this directive.

3. The UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities is taken into account in the light of the harmonization criteria of the new Directive.

(3) Compared with the instruction 2006/95/EC, the new instruction 2014/35/EU adds the following contents:

1. The new directive adopts a new legislative framework (NLF). The responsibilities and requirements of manufacturers, authorized representatives, importers and distributors were clarified.

2. In order to facilitate the exchange of information, the new directive encourages factories to provide an electronic network address in addition to the communication address.

3. The new directive clarifies that there is no need for public announcement agencies to intervene in the conformity assessment process.

4. The new directive clearly stipulates that technical documents should include adequate risk analysis and assessment.

5. The new directive stipulates detailed market supervision, handling of hazardous electrical products and post-event protection procedures.

6. The new directive stipulates that manufacturers and importers should take corrective measures to correct non-conformities when CE markings, CE compliance statements, technical documents or manufacturer information are found to be inconsistent with the requirements. Otherwise, relevant member states will take measures to restrict or prohibit the sale of products in the market and ensure that the products already sold are recalled from the market.

7. In accordance with the new directive, member States are required to develop rules of punishment applicable to the laws of member States in violation of the directive, which include criminal penalties in case of serious violations.

(4) Important Dates

1. The new LVD was published in the Official Journal of the European Union (OJ) on March 29, 2014.

2. The Directive will enter into force and be implemented in the national legislation of member States on 19 April 2016.

3. The new Directive will replace the current Directive 2006/95/EC on 20 April 2016.