The Association of Manufacturers of Domestic Appliances (AMDEA) and techUK have written to the Government to outline the technical and appliance industries’ concerns about the implementation of the UK Product Security and Telecommunications Infrastructure (Product Security) regime (PSTI).
The PSTI Act is one of the first UK-wide product laws post-Brexit and amends the security rules for internet connected products. However, the enforcement date of 29 April 2024 is too soon for the UK technology and appliance industries to be able to demonstrate the compliance of products already on the market and in the supply chain.
Paul Hide, CEO of AMDEA says: “techUK and AMDEA have been particularly vocal in calling for a reasonable implementation period. The current issues facing manufacturers could have been avoided if the Government had listened. Instead, the new PSTI regulation is written so that the Government is calling for compliance for products “made available” rather than the usual “placed on the market” distinction which means that there is a huge concern around existing stock.
“The Government’s approach carries the risk of forcing producers or retailers to scrap or recycle new products which is surely contrary to our joint goals of reducing electrical waste and improving sustainability? It could also cause delays for consumers.”
Hide explained that the lack of detail on how manufacturers demonstrate compliance for product is creating further issues for its members.
He added: “Whilst the technology and appliance industries support stronger cyber security and indeed already meet security requirements for connected products, we need Government and the Office for Product Safety and Standards to issue an easement on the enforcement of the new compliance statement requirements for a year until there is greater clarity and the supply chains have had a chance to catch up.”
The industry needs at least 6-12 months beyond the April enforcement date to ensure connected product meet the requirements to show compliance with the new rules.
There is also concern that the pace set by the Government, in regards to regulations, could cause environmental damage if existing stock needs to be scrapped or recycle because compliance statements are not in accordance with new requirements.
