This one‑page summary is distilled from Certify & Comply’s article “The Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive (EMCD)”. It is intended as a concise reference for manufacturers and importers placing electrical/electronic products on the EU market.
What is the EMCD?
The EMCD (Directive 2014/30/EU) sets baseline rules so electrical and electronic equipment can operate together without causing or suffering unacceptable electromagnetic disturbance. It is one of the core CE‑marking directives for many consumer electronics alongside the Low Voltage Directive (LVD) and the Radio Equipment Directive (RED).
Compatibility in this context means: devices emit low enough electromagnetic disturbances and are sufficiently immune to expected disturbances.
Scope & exclusions
The EMCD applies to equipment marketed as a functional unit for end‑users that can generate electromagnetic disturbance or whose performance could be affected by it. Typical coverage includes most electrical equipment.
Not covered (main exclusions)
Radio equipment (covered by RED)
Aviation equipment under EU 2018/1139
Custom research kits
Certain inherently non‑emitting/non‑susceptible items (e.g., cables, batteries, equipment without active components)
CE marking
Products within the scope of the EMCD must be CE‑marked, ensuring free movement across the EU/EEA and preventing Member States from imposing stricter essential‑requirements for EMC.
Essential requirements (Annex I)
Emissions: disturbances generated do not exceed levels that would disrupt other equipment.
Immunity: equipment remains sufficiently immune to expected disturbances.
Requirements apply to both conducted and radiated phenomena.
Implement manufacturing controls to ensure compliant production.
Affix the CE mark and draw up an EU Declaration of Conformity (DoC).
No notified body involvement required.
EU‑type examination (Module B + C)
Prepare technical documentation.
Submit to a notified body for review and obtain an EU‑type examination certificate.
Ensure manufacturing conforms to the certified design.
Affix the CE mark and draw up the EU DoC.
Voluntary under the EMCD.
Harmonised standards
Use of harmonised EMC standards is strongly recommended to demonstrate conformity. Appropriate emission and immunity standards depend on the equipment and intended environment. Devices connected to the low‑voltage grid may also need to meet flicker and harmonics standards.
Obligations of economic operators
Manufacturers
Ensure compliant design and production.
Prepare technical documentation and DoC; keep the DoC for 10 years after placing on the market.
Label with name and postal address; supply instructions in correct languages.
Take corrective measures if non‑conformity is suspected.
Authorised representatives
EU‑based mandatee for specific tasks (not compliance/design itself). Typical tasks:
Keep the DoC for 10 years.
Provide technical documentation to authorities upon request.
Cooperate with authorities to address risks.
Importers
Verify the manufacturer’s technical documentation and correct labelling/information (right languages).
Include importer contact details on the product where required or ensure an AR is indicated.
Maintain product conformity while in their care; keep the DoC for 10 years if no AR is indicated.
Take corrective measures if non‑conformity is suspected.
Distributors
Verify CE marking and correct information/labelling.
Ensure conformity is preserved during distribution.
Take corrective measures if non‑conformity is suspected.