The early moves to introduce a European market started with the European Coal and Steel Community in 1951, although that was not all Europe only 6 countries. This eventually evolved into the European Economic Community in 1958 (PNEUROP was being proposed at this time also) which included a slightly expanded number of countries with notable exceptions. It still had to be remembered that there was also the European Free Trade Area (EFTA) with a limited number of countries which began in 1960. Now there is the European Union which was introduced in 1993 and which has in very recent years expanded to 27 countries but there is still also EFTA. It is fortunate for manufacturers that there is the European Economic Area which unites the EU member states with EFTA members into an Internal Market governed by the same basic rules.
The all important issues for manufacturers was the introduction in 1993 of the Internal Market which removed the 'borders' for goods and services. This was not achieved over night since there was a requirement to introduce legislation to make it work.
This short introduction to history highlights the fact that during all the years that culminated in the 'Internal Market' manufacturers had to comply with national requirements in all those countries which now submit to the Internal Market. For manufacturers that has been a streamlining of costs and a benefit to customers.
Some legislation which pneumatic tool manufacturers have to comply with;
Machines Directive
Outdoor Noise Directive
Potentially Explosive Atmospheres
Physical Agents (Vibration) Directive
Physical Agents (Noise) Directive
Legislation of general interest to tools;
EU Good Practice Guides;
Sustainability projects and low carbon initiates need compressed air, gas and vacuum equipment
Increasing concern about the environment and the need to foster energy efficiency are addressed by the European Climate Change Programme and its subsequent legislative measures. Pneurop supports the overall sustainable energy policy objectives of the European Union within the sphere of its responsibilities. Its members companies actively promote energy efficiency for the benefit of their customers as part of their daily business activity.
