Radio Equipment Directive (RED): Implementing Regulation

The labelling of radio and wireless products is often a source of confusion for both customers and to a limited extent, manufacturers. Both ‘harmonized frequency’ and ‘harmonized standard’ are referenced within the Radio Equipment Directive (2014/53/EU) but mean completely different things.

Harmonized standards vs. harmonized frequency

Harmonized standards are applied to the product in terms of test requirements, but the actual frequency that a product operates may be different in one EU Member State compared with another (i.e. non-harmonized frequency).

Historically, theCE Markwarned users of a potential non-harmonized frequency with an exclamation mark as the illustrative symbol:

In 2014, the newRadio Equipment Directive (RED) (2014/53/EU)was published which allowed for Implementing Regulations to be added to address specific issues with the directive. Since it is recognised that consumers often misunderstand labelling, an Implementing Regulation has been drafted to resolve this issue. The new labelling Implementing Regulation is expected to come into force before the 13th June 2017, before the old R&TTE Directive comes to an end.

Labelling and packaging guide

The packaging of products which could potentially have an issue with a non-harmonized frequency in a specific country will now carry that country’s code to warn the consumer.

For example, “UK” for United Kingdom and maybe a colour coding traffic light system, with ‘red’ warning that the product cannot be used or ‘amber’ to highlight potential restriction(s) – indoor used only, for example.

Products which are approved to use in the country will not require labelling.

Element is a Notified Body for the key EU product safety and communications directives including radio (RTTE/RED) and is able to provide expert help and guidance not only to support your product through the relevant testing process but also to ensure all obligations have been met.

For more information on your responsibilities under RED, including the regulations regarding products using potentially non-harmonized frequencies, pleasecontact usor call UK +44 808 234 1667 or US +1 888 786 7555.