It came into force on july 1st, 2003. 
Since then, only the products in compliance with that directive can be placed on the market in the EU countries.

This directive mainly requires :

The approval of the product by a notified body  (through EC-type examination), as well as the approval of production quality assurance system of its manufacturer. 

The affixing of the ''EC'' marking on the various products' labels. This marking means that the product meets the requirements of the directives ''New Approach'' it is related : ATEX Directive, but also if needed Directive on Machines, Directive on Low Voltage, etc.

Example of marking :

Distinction between explosive atmospheres resulting from the presence of gas, steams or sprays (code G for Gas) and explosive atmospheres resulting from a mixture of air and dust (Code D for Dust). The certification processes for these two types of hazardous atmospheres will be different, then a G or D marking will be affixed in the case concerned on the certified device. 

The introduction of conception and manufacturing rules aimed at improving the safety of the equipments, to make them work safely for their expected lifetime : selection of the components, opening with a specific tool, prevention of device overload, using electric governors, protection against electrostatic charges, parasitic currents, leakage, unacceptable overheatings, etc.

Taking into account the operating conditions of the devices : moisture, vibrations, pollution, stray voltage, etc. 

Application of failsafe principle to the security devices intended to work directly on the affected monitoring bodies, without using the software.