Recall
Definition
A recall is any measure aimed at achieving the return of a product that has already been made available to the end user, as defined in Regulation (EU) 2019/1020.
Expanded Explanation
Recall is the most severe standard corrective measure because it reaches past the supply chain to people who already own the product. It normally involves a public notice, a return or remedy route, traceability of affected units, and reporting to the competent authorities.
Two regimes matter in practice. Regulation (EU) 2019/1020 defines recall as a market surveillance measure across EU product law. Regulation (EU) 2023/988 on general product safety sets specific duties for consumer product recalls, including the content of a recall notice and the remedies that must be offered.
Digital Product Passports change recall mechanics more than recall law. A passport gives a durable, product-level channel that an owner can reach after purchase, and identifiers make it possible to scope a recall to the affected batches rather than the whole model.
Why It Matters
Recall is where identification quality is tested. If batch or serial identity is weak, the recall scope widens to protect safety, and cost rises accordingly.
Legal and Regulatory Context
Regulation (EU) 2019/1020 for the general market surveillance definition; Regulation (EU) 2023/988 for consumer product safety recalls and notice requirements.
Relationship to Adjacent Concepts
Recall sits above withdrawal on the corrective action ladder, and both are ordered or accepted by a market surveillance authority.
Common Misconceptions
Recall is a measure, not a verdict on hazard level. It is used where return from end users is the proportionate response, which is common for safety but not limited to it.
Related Terms
Related Knowledge Base Articles
Related Articles
- Corrective Action
- Market Surveillance
- Market Surveillance Authority
- Withdrawal
- Authorised Representative
- Conformity Assessment
- EU Declaration of Conformity
- Harmonised Standard
See Also
References
- Regulation (EU) 2019/1020 on market surveillance and compliance of products: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2019/1020/oj
- Regulation (EU) 2023/988 on general product safety: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2023/988/oj
About This Article
tieback Knowledge is a continuously maintained reference library covering Digital Product Passports, product traceability, product compliance and related regulations. Articles are reviewed regularly as legislation, standards and implementation guidance evolve.