GS Mark and GS Certification

 GS Mark and GS Certification



GS stands for "Geprufte Sicherheit" (Safety Certified), also meaning "Germany Safety." GS certification is a voluntary certification based on German product safety law, conducted according to EU unified standards (EN) or German industrial standards (DIN). It is a recognized German safety certification mark in the European market.


The GS mark indicates that the product's safety has been tested by a credible independent body. While not legally mandatory, the GS mark does subject manufacturers to strict German (European) product safety laws in the event of a product malfunction leading to an accident. Therefore, the GS mark is a powerful marketing tool that enhances customer confidence and purchasing desire. Although GS is a German standard, it is recognized by the vast majority of European countries. Furthermore, meeting GS certification also meets the requirements for the European Community's CE marking. Unlike CE, the GS mark is not legally mandatory, but because safety awareness is deeply ingrained in ordinary consumers, an appliance with the GS mark may have a greater competitive advantage in the market than other products.


The GS mark is a voluntary German safety mark, but it is highly valued by consumers. Many products, including power tools, IT equipment, and home appliances, are difficult to sell in Germany and surrounding regions without the GS mark.


Product evaluation, certification, and pre-license inspection are conducted. Product evaluation is based on harmonized European standards, referencing the Low Voltage Directive, EMC Directive, and Machinery Directive. If a product compliant with GS requirements lacks a relevant European standard, an IEC standard certificate will be issued, valid for five years. Pre-license inspection is mandatory, followed by annual factory inspections. Product evaluation is conducted according to the electrical safety regulations of harmonized European standards and German National Deviations, as well as ZEK documents and documents prepared by the GS interpretation group EK1 (Exchange of Experience Forum 1). Some products also require ergonomic testing.


According to ZEK 01-08, since April 1, 2008, products applying for GS certification must undergo PAHs assessment to comply with regulatory requirements and avoid health hazards. This mandatory requirement applies to all materials that may contain PAHs and come into contact with the human body or be placed in the mouth under normal use or foreseeable reasonable misuse. ZEK 01-08 regarding PAHs assessment has undergone several revisions. On May 15, 2019, the German Product Safety Committee (AfPS) published a new standard for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) requiring GS certification: AfPS GS 2019:01 PAK (the old version was AfPS GS 2014:01 PAK). The new standard took effect on July 1, 2020, and AfPS GS 2014:01 PAK became invalid after June 30, 2020.

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