Given the reliance by Irish manufacturers on the services of UK-based Notified Bodies, Government has renewed its call on businesses that use UK Notified Bodies to source an EU-based Notified Body legally designated to carry conformity assessments instead.  In a no deal Brexit scenario, companies in Ireland will no longer be able to rely on UK- based Notified Bodies to test, certify and inspect their products/services. Manufacturers currently relying on a UK Notified Body for conformity assessment of products must arrange either for a transfer of their files and the corresponding certificates from the UK body to an EU27 Notified Body or apply for a new certificate with an EU27 Notified Body. Importers, distributors and authorised representatives should ensure that they hold certificates under the responsibility of an EU27 Notified Body. Likewise, exporters currently relying on UK based Notified Bodies for compliance certification will need to make similar alternative arrangements.

To avoid disruption and delays, you will need to take the necessary steps to ensure you are compliant with EU rules:

• You need to check whether your current certifications, licences or authorisations will be valid post-Brexit. If you are a member of a professional body, they may be able to advise you further.
• In the event of no deal, UK Notified Bodies will lose their status as EU Notified Bodies from the withdrawal date. So, if you rely on UK Notified Bodies for conformity assessment and/or CE Marking, you will need to arrange to either transfer existing certificates, licences or authorisations to an EU27 Notified Body or to obtain new ones altogether. You can check the EU Commission NANDO website for a list of designated EU Notified Bodies.
• The National Standards Authority of Ireland has prepared useful factsheets that you can consult for further information.