|
|
NIST SP 951
European National StandardsThe harmonization, or the "Europeanization," of standards is an ongoing process. There will be instances when no European Standard (EN) exists to cover essential requirements, or no European Standard exists that is applicable to a product that is unique, or innovative, or a product whose technology is developing rapidly. In this case, a Member State may inform the manufacturer of an existing national standard it considers relevant, or the use of a national standard may be permitted as a temporary solution to the proper implementation of the essential requirements. However, a national standard, (one produced by a European National Standards Body), like all other standards worldwide, does not carry with it the presumption of conformity, and the burden of proof that the product meets all the essential requirements still rests with the manufacturer. National Standards (Mutual Recognition)National standards may still govern products regulated at Member State level. The harmonization of regulation is also an ongoing process, and some products that are unregulated at European level are still regulated by Member States. This means that some national standards act as national technical regulations. (If products are unregulated at the European level, the European Court of Justice has decreed that Member States must recognize them in each other's territory (i.e., acceptance in one Member State means acceptance in all) unless there are proven health or safety restrictions. This acceptance principle is known as mutual recognition. To this date, however, products outside of the food sector have not enjoyed a liberal and free exchange under the mutual recognition principle). Return to the Table of Contents
|
Previous Page