The Radio Equipment Directive (2014/53/EU), commonly referred to as RED, is a key piece of legislation that governs the marketing of radio equipment within the European Union. It applies to all products that intentionally transmit or receive radio waves for communication or radiodetermination purposes, including common devices such as smartphones, Wi-Fi routers, drones, and wireless-enabled IoT products.
What is the RED?
The RED establishes a regulatory framework to ensure that radio equipment entering the EU market is safe, does not interfere with other devices, and uses the radio spectrum efficiently. It became fully applicable on 13 June 2017, replacing the former R&TTE Directive.
The directive applies to manufacturers, importers, and distributors, who must all ensure that products comply with the relevant requirements before they are placed on the EU market.
Essential Requirements under RED
The directive outlines essential requirements in Article 3, divided into three main categories:
Article 3.1 – Health, Safety, and EMC
- 3.1(a): Radio equipment must be constructed to ensure the protection of health and safety of persons and domestic animals, including requirements relating to electrical safety (in line with Directive 2014/35/EU).
- 3.1(b): Equipment must have an adequate level of electromagnetic compatibility (as required under Directive 2014/30/EU).
Article 3.2 – Efficient Use of Radio Spectrum
Radio equipment must be constructed to ensure efficient use of the radio spectrum so as to avoid harmful interference.
Article 3.3 – Additional Requirements (Delegated Acts)
Article 3.3 allows the European Commission to adopt delegated acts imposing additional requirements for specific categories of radio equipment. These requirements are not automatically applicable to all devices; they are enforced through specific legislation targeted at high-risk categories.
Possible additional essential requirements under Article 3.3 include:
- 3.3(a): Interworking with accessories, including chargers.
- 3.3(b): Interworking with networks.
- 3.3(c): Prevention of harm to the network or misuse of network resources.
- 3.3(d): Protection of personal data and privacy of the user.
- 3.3(e): Protection against fraud.
- 3.3(f): Access to emergency services.
- 3.3(g): Facilitating use by users with disabilities.
- 3.3(h): Compliance with combinations of software intended by the manufacturer.
These delegated acts allow the EU to respond to emerging technological and societal concerns, such as cybersecurity, data protection, and interoperability, especially relevant for IoT and smart devices.
Upcoming Changes and Cybersecurity Focus
A significant update under Article 3.3 is the Delegated Regulation (EU) 2022/30, which introduces cybersecurity-related obligations for certain categories of connected radio equipment. It requires:
- Protection against unauthorized access and communication.
- Protection of personal data processed by the device.
- Network resilience against disruption or misuse.
The enforcement of these requirements is expected to begin in 2025, giving manufacturers time to adapt.
Compliance Responsibilities
To comply with RED, economic operators must ensure:
- CE Marking: Affixed only after full compliance.
- Declaration of Conformity: A formal statement of compliance with RED and other applicable directives.
- Technical Documentation: Evidence supporting conformity must be maintained.
- User Instructions and Safety Information: Provided in a language easily understood by end-users in the target market.
Conclusion
The Radio Equipment Directive is a vital regulatory tool for ensuring the safety, interoperability, and resilience of radio-enabled products within the EU. Article 3.3 in particular allows the legal framework to evolve and address growing concerns such as cybersecurity and data privacy.
Companies aiming to place radio equipment on the EU market must not only meet basic safety and spectrum use standards but also stay ahead of emerging delegated requirements that address new technological challenges.
For any organization involved in designing, manufacturing, or distributing radio equipment in the EU, staying informed about RED—and especially about upcoming Article 3.3 obligations—is essential for legal compliance and market success.
Contact Us
Navigating the Radio Equipment Directive and its evolving requirements—especially under Article 3.3—can be complex. Whether you're developing a new product, updating your compliance strategy, or preparing for upcoming cybersecurity obligations, our team is here to help. We offer expert guidance on CE marking, technical documentation, risk assessments, and RED compliance.
Contact us today to discuss your project and ensure your radio equipment meets all necessary EU regulatory requirements with confidence.
