The purpose of European Directive 89/106/EC, is to ensure the free circulation of construction products by overcoming all domestic protectionist barriers established by members of the European Union.

Production products mean any product which is produced for incorporation in a permanent manner in construction works, including both buildings and civil engineering works.

The directive focuses on six major themes:

1. Mechanical resistance and stability

2. Safety in the event of fire

3. Hygiene, health, environment

4. Safety in use

5. Noise protection

6. Energy saving and thermal insulation

Compliance with this EU Directive is indicated by the CE marking

The CE marking is already known since it is applied to household appliances, computers, toys etc.

By using the CE marking, the manufacturer or its representative within the European Union declares that the product concerned conforms with the general safety provisions included in the CE marking directive.

The letters CE (European Community) are applied by the manufacturer of the product and confirm that such product complies with the relevant European Directives e.g. Directive on machinery, Directive on electromagnetic compatibility, Directive on construction products.

Over time, CE marking will be compulsory for all products.

The intention of the European Union with regard to CE marking is to provide 375 million inhabitants with a minimum guarantee of product reliability (the six major themes of Directive 89/106/EC)

Since 1993 (date of adoption of Directive 89/106/EC), the phrase "CE mark" no longer exists and has been replaced by "CE marking".

In particular, this marking is not a distinguishing element of industrial or commercial products, but rather a conforming element which, therefore, must not be confused with something that tends to distinguish or seeks to stand out.

This explains the legislator's decision to use the expression "CE marking " rather than "CE mark".

The construction products Directive (89/106/EC) refers to the technical enabling documents that regulate the way a product is put onto the market.

These documents are harmonised regulations and are the result of lengthy collective work designed to improve the reliability and quality of a product and prevent the risks associated with its use.

CE marking deriving from Directive 89/106/EC which governs construction products, covers the following door fittings:

The above fittings must be CE marked by their manufacturers in accordance with the related product regulations; the marking indicates the classification.

Examples for door hold-open magnets:

The various numbers have the following meaning:

The transitory instructions included in the Decree dated 3 November 2004, which came into force on 16 February 2005, require that devices already installed that do not carry CE marking must be replaced, by the owner of the business concerned, with devices that comply with this decree, in the following circumstances:

· breakage of the device

· replacement of the door

· changes to the business that result in a deterioration of the exit routes

· in any case, within six years of the decree coming into force (by 16 February 2011).

The maintenance of the devices must guarantee that their original operating condition is maintained.