Directive 2000/14/EC is structured around two key articles that define which equipment is subject to which requirements. Article 12 covers equipment that must comply with both noise measurement and noise limit obligations — meaning the measured sound power level must not exceed the permitted values set out in the directive.
Understanding which of your products fall under Article 12 is essential for determining the compliance pathway and the level of testing and certification required.
What Does Article 12 Cover?
Article 12 applies to equipment categories for which the directive sets defined permissible sound power levels. Manufacturers of these products must not only measure and declare the noise output of their equipment, but also ensure that the guaranteed sound power level does not exceed the limits specified in Annex I of the directive.
The equipment categories covered by Article 12 include:
• Compaction machines: vibrating rollers, vibratory plates and vibratory rammers
• Tracked dumpers
• Crawler dozers
• Crawler loaders and backhoe loaders (crawler type)
• Combustion-engine driven generating sets with a net installed power of up to and including 400 kW
• Hydraulic hammers
• Lawnmowers, lawn trimmers and lawn edge trimmers
• Leaf blowers, vacuum cleaners and leaf collectors
• Paving equipment excluding vibrating screeds
• Tower cranes
• Welding and power generators
• Mobile cranes
The Noise Limits Under Article 12
For each equipment category listed under Article 12, the directive specifies a maximum permissible sound power level. These limits are typically expressed in two phases — Phase I and Phase II — with Phase II limits being more stringent. Phase II limits have been in force for a number of years and are the applicable limits for new equipment placed on the market today.
The guaranteed sound power level of the equipment — calculated from the measured level plus the uncertainty value — must not exceed the relevant Phase II limit for the product to be compliant.
Conformity Assessment for Article 12 Equipment
For equipment subject to Article 12, the conformity assessment process must involve a Notified Body. The manufacturer must submit the equipment — or technical documentation relating to it — to a Notified Body, which will carry out a type examination and issue an EC type-examination certificate.
Following successful type examination, the manufacturer may affix the CE mark, provided that production is maintained in conformity with the examined type. Ongoing obligations include internal production control measures and, in some cases, periodic auditing.
How Earlsmere Can Help
Earlsmere has established experience working with manufacturers of the equipment types listed under Article 12, including generating sets, compressors, and a range of construction and grounds maintenance machinery. We assist manufacturers in coordinating the required noise testing, liaising with Notified Bodies, preparing technical documentation, and fulfilling the Authorised Representative role for EU market access through Earlsmere Certification Ireland Limited.
We support manufacturers based in the UK, EU, and USA in navigating the full compliance process from initial assessment through to CE marking and ongoing obligations.
Need help with compliance? Contact Earlsmere today.
Whether you are based in the UK, EU, or USA, Earlsmere Certification Ireland Limited has the expertise to guide you through every step of the compliance process. Get in touch with our team to discuss your requirements.
Email: enq@earlsmere.co.uk | Web: www.earlsmere.co.uk