Introduction
If you make guitars, pedals, amps, or other instruments, the General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR) affects you—especially if you sell in the EU or Northern Ireland. GPSR requires products to be safe and traceable. Here’s what that means for you in plain English.
Disclaimer: This guidance is based on our experience in the musical instruments and compliance industries. It does not constitute legal advice.
What is the GPSR?
The GPSR (Regulation (EU) 2023/988) came into force across the EU—including Northern Ireland—on 13 December 2024. It replaces the old General Product Safety Directive and is directly applicable in EU law.
Who Does It Affect?
GPSR applies to almost all consumer products, including musical instruments, unless there is a specific safety law for that product. It also covers second-hand goods and products sold online.
Key GPSR Requirements (Guidance Only)
1. Safe Design and Risk Thinking
GPSR expects you to assess potential risks in your product design and take steps to reduce them. This could mean making sure finishes are safe, sharp edges are smoothed, and electronics are secure.
2. Technical File (Documentation)
You should keep a technical file showing your product is safe. This can include:
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Product description and materials
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Risk assessment and how hazards were reduced
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Any standards you follow
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Test reports (if available)
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Instructions and safety information
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Declaration of Conformity (if relevant)
3. Labelling and Traceability
Products or packaging should show:
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Type, batch, or serial number
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Your name and contact details (postal and email)
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If needed, details of your EU-based contact point
4. Online Sales Information
If you sell online, clearly display:
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Your contact details or your EU representative’s details
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Product identifier and clear images
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Any safety warnings or age guidance
5. EU-Based Economic Operator
If you’re outside the EU (for example, in Great Britain) you must have an EU-based authorised representative, importer, or fulfilment partner to place products on the EU/NI market.
UK vs EU GPSR
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Great Britain: Still follows the older General Product Safety Regulations 2005.
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Northern Ireland: Fully follows the EU GPSR, so you must comply if you sell there.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Selling in the EU/NI without an authorised representative
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Not keeping a proper technical file
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Missing product labels or contact information
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Assuming marketplaces handle compliance for you
Quick GPSR Checklist
| Requirement | Guidance Action |
|---|---|
| Risk Assessment | Record design decisions and hazard checks |
| Technical File | Keep description, risk info, and test reports |
| Traceability Labels | Include model, batch/serial, and contact info |
| Online Sales Info | Display contact, product ID, and warnings |
| EU Economic Operator | Appoint a representative if outside the EU |
Where to Get Support
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Our Free Instrument Makers’ Compliance Guide gives you a simple overview.
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Our Template Packs can help you prepare your technical file and labels quickly.
Reminder: This is guidance based on industry experience, not legal advice.
