Product safety marks explained: UKCA, CE and more
What the UKCA, CE, Kitemark and Lion Mark symbols mean on products sold in the UK, and how far you can rely on them.
Most products sold in the UK carry one or more safety marks. They tell you something about the product, but not everything. Here is what the common marks mean.
UKCA
The UKCA (UK Conformity Assessed) mark was introduced after Brexit. It shows that the maker says the product meets the UK safety rules that apply to it, such as those for toys, electrical goods or machinery. For most products the maker declares this themselves. For some higher-risk products, an independent body has to check.
CE
The CE mark is the European equivalent. It is still accepted in Great Britain for most products, so you will see both marks on goods in UK shops. Products sold in Northern Ireland follow EU rules and carry the CE mark, sometimes with a UKNI mark alongside.
BSI Kitemark
The Kitemark is a voluntary mark from the British Standards Institution. Unlike UKCA and CE, it means the product has been independently tested and the factory is regularly checked. You often see it on things like smoke alarms, window locks and electrical plugs.
Lion Mark
The Lion Mark appears on toys made by members of the British Toy and Hobby Association, who agree to follow a code of practice on safety. It is a useful extra sign of a reputable brand, alongside the required UKCA or CE mark.
Fake marks
Safety marks are easy to copy. Cheap products sold through some online marketplaces have been found with fake or misleading marks. A mark is a good sign, but it is no guarantee. Buy from sellers you trust, especially for electrical items, chargers and children’s products.
What to do if a product seems unsafe
If something overheats, sparks or breaks in a dangerous way, stop using it and report it. See our guide on how to report an unsafe product.
More guides
- What happens when a medicine is recalled
- Children’s products and toy recalls
- What to do if your car is recalled
- Your rights when a product is recalled
This guide is general information, not legal or medical advice. Always follow the official notice for a specific recall. Read our editorial policy or see all guides.