Malfunctioning products and the counter-verification of certification tests – Sicom Testing

In the life of a product, even after it has been placed on the market, they can occur problems related to operation, very often when the device is already with end users. Problems related to safety and functionality which, therefore, undermine the authority of the manufacturing (or distributing) company, putting its relationship of trust with the customer at risk.

In the case of malfunctioning products it is advisable to carry out a procedure counter-verification of certification tests at a competent laboratory. The counter-verification may involve a constructive analysis of the device, the re-execution of tests related to the product and its critical areas, proceeding with further tests in relation to the reported problem.

Counter-checks on problematic products: obligations and figures involved

As is known, on a general level CE certification and monitoring of product conformity over time are to be counted among the manufacturer's duties, but there are various cases that personally involve the figures of distributor and importer.

Importer and distributor – at a general task level – must both ensure that while the products remain under their responsibility, they are not modified in a way that could jeopardize their compliance. Of substantial importance is the obligation - valid for both figures - to implement all necessary control measures, especially in the event of product malfunctions.

In phase of control by the competent authorities in fact, on incidents related to products, importers and distributors must be able to demonstrate that you acted quickly and accurately. In this context, the counter-checks on problematic products they are a fundamental activity to protect the consumer, but also to guarantee the authority of the actors in the production and distribution chain.

Malfunctioning products: failure of certification tests

After identifying the product that presents problems related to its safe use by the end user, companies turn to a competent laboratory to proceed with the counter-verification of certification tests of the device, analyzing it in its critical components and subjecting it to specific tests.

In almost all cases, a product that has revealed problems in use is a product that the counter-verification of the certification tests fails. Generally speaking, therefore, it is practically certain that a product that fails the certification tests (at whatever stage these are proposed) will be a product that will present problems in use.

This happens because the certification tests they are extremely close to the possible problems in the actual use of the product, presenting itself as an excellently reliable tool in providing indications on the quality of the device to be placed on the market.

What is the right laboratory to test a critical product?

A product accident is a critical moment for any company, therefore the choice of the most suitable laboratory is essential to manage this delicate phase with effectiveness and determination.

If large certification groups may be preferred in the case of having to certify a vast series of products in a very short time, in the case of a product that has revealed problems small or medium-sized laboratories they present themselves as more effective partners terms of accuracy of responses and protection of corporate privacy.

The high levels of care and attention to the customer – which are inherent to small laboratories – are decisive factors in case you need delve deeper into a specific topic or one product-related issue. In more intimate contexts, in fact, the customer is managed with completely dedicated attention, which translates into greater care in operations and certainly more effective and complete responses.

In terms of respect for privacy, a small or medium-sized laboratory ensures a high degree of confidentiality, given the smaller work group that comes into contact with the information, a requirement that a larger certification partner could not guarantee.

Thanks to complete customization of trials and tests on critical and non-critical products, to proximity to customers wherever their offices are, with maximum privacy protection and twenty years of experience in the sector, Sicom Testing continues to be an ideal partner for companies that need counter-checks and tests on electrical, electronic and radio products.