BREXIT CONCERNS
INCREASE AS YEAR-END APPROACHES
MVPro asked the European Machine Vision Association (E MVA) for thoughts as we bring a difficult year to a close The Covid-19 pandemic certainly captured more media attention than the impending exit of the UK from the European Union, but the absence of a defined trade deal between the UK and the EU is introducing uncertainty and risk into businesses on both sides of the English Channel, with both conformity and trade tariffs likely to be of significant concern to the vision sector. Conformity of products for sale within the European Economic Area has been simply addressed since 1985 by the use of the CE mark, coupled to manufacturers declaration of conformity and technical files. This system is intended to be replaced within the UK by the United Kingdom Conformity Assessment, which will be required for all products placed onto the UK market. 2020 will surely be remembered as the year when the first pandemic of the modern era swept the world, resulting in significant harm and impact to many people and businesses. However, as the year ends with positive indications of an effective virus vaccine, and many companies having successfully adapted to the new normal, other topics are increasingly of concern.
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The approach is expected to be very similar to the CE mark, but companies will need to check on specific details, particularly in respect of using certified bodies for demonstrating compliance. Rapid clarification of statutory requirements is necessary, with seemingly minor issues having the potential to create significant disruption, such as the need to place the UKAC mark directly on the
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