- Non-motorised furniture must not be CE marked merely as a precaution when no CE legislation applies.
- An electrically height-adjustable desk can meet the definition of machinery.
- Depending on its design, EMC, radio, RoHS and ecodesign requirements can also apply.
Why can an electrical desk require CE marking?
A motorised desk combines components of which at least one is moved by a drive system other than directly applied human or animal effort. Depending on design and intended purpose, it can therefore meet the legal definition of machinery.
The Machinery Regulation also clarifies that the exception for certain household electrical appliances does not cover electrically operated furniture. A product-specific assessment is still essential.
Which legal fields can apply together?
Conformity assessment is not about collecting labels. First, the legal acts applying to the complete product and relevant components are identified. This determines the safety assessment, test strategy and documentation scope.
- Machinery Directive or, from 2027, Machinery Regulation
- EMC requirements for controls, motors and electronics
- Radio Equipment Directive for Wi-Fi, Bluetooth or remote controls
- RoHS requirements for hazardous substances
- Ecodesign requirements for off, standby and networked standby modes
What applies to energy consumption?
Regulation (EU) 2023/826 has applied since 9 May 2025 and expressly covers motor-operated adjustable furniture, including height-adjustable desks, lift beds and chairs. It sets consumption requirements for off, standby and where applicable networked standby modes.
Manufacturers and importers therefore need to consider not only safe movement but also documented energy requirements for the complete product.
Sources & legal status
This overview is based exclusively on official legal and public-authority sources.
The applicable legislation cannot be determined from the product name alone. Relevant factors include design, voltage, drive system, radio functions, intended use and the date of placing on the market. This content provides general technical information and does not replace a product-specific assessment or legal advice.