When browsing through a shop in the European Union, you may notice the “IMQ” symbol on some packaging. The IMQ mark symbolizes the high quality and safety of products compliant with European standards. Who issues the IMQ mark, and is it mandatory?
What is the IMQ?
IMQ (Istituto Italiano del Marchio di Qualità, the Italian Institute for the Quality Mark) is a major Italian certification body founded in 1951. IMQ is an independent institution that assesses and certifies products to ensure they meet national and international safety and quality standards. Certificates and test reports issued by IMQ are primarily based on CEI, UNI, Cenelec, CEN, IEC, and ISO standards and are recognized worldwide.
What is the IMQ mark?
The IMQ mark is a certification mark confirming that a product has passed rigorous testing for compliance with CEI and EN standards. This allows manufacturers to demonstrate that their products meet safety and quality requirements.
What products does IMQ assess?
In some cases, in order to place products on the EU market, a manufacturer must have the conformity assessment carried out by an authorized and “notified” body; IMQ is precisely that body. Here is a list of directives and regulations for which IMQ acts as a notified body:
- Gas Appliance (GAR) – Regulation (EU) 2016/426
- Radio Equipment (RED) – 2014/53/EU
- Lift (LIFT) – 2014/33/EU
- Equipment and protective systems intended for use in potentially explosive atmospheres (ATEX) – 2014/34/EU
- Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) – 2014/30/EU
- Medical devices (MDD) – 93/42/CEE and Active Implantable Medical Devices (AIMDD) – 90/385/CEE
- Medical Devices (MDR) – Regulation 2017/745/EU
- Machinery (MACC) – 2006/42/EC
- Construction Products (CPR) – Regulation 305/2011/EU
- Boiler Efficiency (BED) – 92/42/EEC
- Measuring instruments (MID) – 2014/32/EU
- European Electronic Toll Service (EETS) – 2019/520
What products can be certified with the IMQ mark?
The list of categories covered by IMQ certification is extensive and constantly expanding. It includes:
- Gas equipment (IMQ-CIG mark, a black diamond with the IMQ marking)
- Electrical appliances and components (green IMQ mark)
- Lighting components, cables, motors, household appliances, fitness equipment, vehicles, and medical products.
Is the IMQ mark mandatory?
The IMQ mark is not mandatory, but it shows that a product meets certain standards and norms, which makes it more desirable on the market. Even when the IMQ Mark is not legally required, obtaining this certification can significantly increase a product’s reputation and make it more appealing to customers, especially in markets that value quality assurance.
How long is the IMQ certification valid?
The validity of the IMQ Mark certification depends on the product type and the agreement between the IMQ and the manufacturer. Generally, IMQ certifications are valid for three years, after which the certification must be renewed. The renewal process involves an audit and an inspection of the product and production process to confirm that the product continues to meet the required standards.
What are the costs of IMQ certification?
IMQ does not currently publicly disclose its price list. The costs depend on factors such as the scope of product testing, product category, production capacity, and additional services. Costs can be estimated at several thousand euros. For a detailed quote, contact IMQ.
To learn about other markings and symbols used for products, check out our articles.