What CE mark must a scrubber have?
A scrubber is required to have a CE mark have to comply with European safety standards. This certification shows that the machine meets guidelines for electrical safety, mechanical protection and user safety. Without valid CE marking, you may not use the scrubber commercially in Europe.
Why is CE marking important for your scrubber?
CE marking is mandatory for all cleaning equipment sold and used within the European Union. This certification guarantees that you scrubber meets all relevant safety requirements and technical standards.
In the industrial cleaning sector, employees work daily with electrical equipment that uses water. This combination poses specific risks. A certified scrubber protects your staff from electrical shock, mechanical injury and other safety hazards.
The legal requirements are clear: without CE marking, you are not allowed to use the machine in business conditions. This applies to both new and used scrubbers you purchase for your business.
What exactly does CE marking mean for scrubbers?
CE stands for "Conformité Européenne" and means that the manufacturer declares that the product complies with all applicable European directives. The CE symbol is an official seal that allows free trade within Europe.
Different European directives apply to scrubbers:
- Machinery directive (2006/42/EC) for mechanical safety
- EMC Directive (2014/30/EU) for electromagnetic compatibility
- Low voltage directive (2014/35/EU) for electrical safety
- RoHS directive (2011/65/EU) for restriction of hazardous substances
Manufacturers must prepare a declaration of conformity and maintain technical documentation. These documents prove that all safety tests have been performed and that the machine meets the specified requirements.
What safety standards must a scrubber comply with?
Scrubbers must meet specific technical standards that ensure user safety. The most important standard is EN 60335-2-72, which regulates electrical safety for commercial cleaning equipment.
| Safety category | Main requirements | Control aspects |
|---|---|---|
| Electrical safety | Insulation, grounding, leakage current protection | Waterproof connections, secure cabling |
| Mechanical aspects | Protection moving parts, stability | Covers, emergency stop functions, tilt protection |
| User Protection | Ergonomic operation, visibility | Handles, warning labels, instructions for use |
In addition, scrubbers must meet noise standards to prevent hearing damage. Most modern machines produce less than 70 decibels during normal operation.
How do you recognize a properly certified scrubber?
You can always find a valid CE mark in a highly visible place on the machine. Look for the CE logo on the nameplate, usually placed near the controls or on the side of the machine.
When purchasing, always check the following documents:
- EU declaration of conformity in Dutch
- User manual with safety instructions
- Technical specifications and maintenance instructions
- Warranty certificate from the supplier
Make sure that the CE symbol is the correct size and is not together with other labels that may cause confusion. Do you doubt its authenticity? Ask the supplier for the original declaration of conformity.
What are the consequences of a scrubber without CE marking?
Use of a scrubber without valid certification scrubber poses several risks. Legally, you violate European legislation, which can lead to sanctions from the Labor Inspectorate.
Safety risks are even more important. Non-certified machinery can cause electrical shocks, mechanical failure or fire. Accidents involving personnel can leave you liable as an employer.
Insurance issues present another problem. Many business insurance policies do not cover damage caused by the use of uncertified equipment. This can have significant consequences in the event of a disaster.
Operationally, uncertified machines can be unreliable, disrupting your cleaning process and preventing your company floors from achieving the desired quality.
Main concerns in CE certification of scrubbers
Always work with reliable suppliers who are transparent about certification. Check that all machines in their inventory have valid CE markings and related documentation.
Extra caution should be taken when purchasing used scrubbers. Ensure that the original CE mark is still present and that no unauthorized modifications have been made that would invalidate the certification.
Think about the future, too: choose brands known for their quality and safety standards. Well-known brands such as Tennant, Nilfisk, Hako and Fimap continuously invest in certification and safety.
With us you will find only certified scrubbers that meet all European requirements. We make sure that each machine comes complete with all the necessary documents, so that you can start working safely right away. Our advisors will be happy to help you choose the right certified scrubber for your specific application. For more information you can always contact us.