FBDi: New EMC directive ready to launch in Germany

The new EMC Directive will soon be implemented in Germany as part of an amendment to the Electromagnetic Compatibility Act (EMVG). Legislators have tasked the Federal Network Agency with the implementation of the act. This will incorporate Directive 2014/30/EU regarding the electromagnetic compatibility of equipment, which has been in force since 20 April, 2016, into German law.

The pending EMVG (current EMVG draft) governs the basic requirements pertaining to the electromagnetic compatibility of equipment and (more complex) fixed installations as well as the obligations of economic operators. Furthermore, the instruments and procedures for market supervision and fault handling by the Federal Network Agency (BNetzA) will be regulated and aligned with the Product Safety Act (ProdSG). As part of these activities, the BNetzA is authorised to inspect equipment that is due to be or has already been placed on the German market to ensure compliance with (basic) requirements. It is also authorised to initiate (appropriate) measures to rectify any deficiencies in the event of non-compliance.

The FBDi association would like to draw attention to the fact that new rules will apply as part of the EMVG to all manufacturers, importers and retailers operating in Germany: Consequently, the manufacturer is responsible for the conformity assessment procedure, the EU declaration of conformity and the CE marking. Where applicable, importers and retailers are required to verify compliance with EMC requirements, insofar as the manufacturers have not done so; they are also under obligation to notify the BNetzA.

In accordance with Section 17 Par. 1 of the current valid EMVG, the BNetzA levies fees and expenses for administrative acts relating to market supervision and fault handling to those parties who have placed equipment in the Federal Republic of Germany on the European Union market, if an infringement of basic requirements is detected.

• generate electromagnetic interference or
• whose operation may be impaired by electromagnetic interference.

About FBDI e. V. (www.fbdi.de):

The FBDi e.V. – Fachverband der Bauelemente Distribution e.V. (Professional Association of Component Distribution), founded in 2003, is well-established in the German association community and represents a large portion of distributors of electronic components with operations in Germany. In addition to the preparation and advancement of numerical data and statistics concerning the German distribution market for electronic components, work group engagement and reporting on important industry themes (amongst others, education, liability and rights, traceability, and environmental themes) form essential pillars of the association’s work. The FBDi is a member of the International Distribution of Electronics Association (IDEA).

Member companies (as of September 2016):

Acal BFi Germany, Arrow Central Europe, Avnet EMG EMEA (Avnet Abacus, Avnet Silica, EBV, MSC Technologies), Beck Elektronische Bauelemente, CODICO, Conrad Electronic SE, ECOMAL Europe, Endrich Bauelemente, EVE, Farnell, Future Electronics Deutschland, Haug Components Holding, Glyn, Hy-Line Holding, JIT electronic, Kruse Electronic Components, MB Electronic, Memphis Electronic, MEV Elektronik Service, Mouser Electronics, pk components, RS Components, Rutronik Elektronische Bauelemente, Schukat electronic, Distrelec Schuricht, SHC, TTI Europe.

Supporting members: elotronics, Amphenol FCI, TDK Europe.