Type Examination
Type Examination (specifically EU Type-Examination) is a strict conformity assessment procedure required for specific categories of machinery. While most industrial equipment allows for Self-Certification, machinery classified as "high-risk" (listed in Annex IV of the Machinery Directive) may require this external validation.
During this process, the manufacturer submits their Technical File and a representative sample of the machine (the "type") to a Notified Body. This independent third party rigorously tests the unit to verify it meets all Essential Health & Safety Requirements (EHSRs). If successful, they issue a Type-Examination Certificate, which is valid for five years.
For North American exporters, it is critical to know that if you do not fully apply Harmonized Standards to a high-risk machine, this process becomes mandatory. You cannot sign the Declaration of Conformity (DoC) until you have this certificate number to reference on the document.
