The compatibility between the General Product Safety Regulations (GPSR) and the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is a notable concern, especially for sole trader manufacturers. The GPSR focuses on ensuring products are safe for consumer use, while the GDPR is centered around the protection and management of personal data.
For sole trader manufacturers, who may often have limited resources, balancing the requirements for product safety and data protection can be demanding. The GDPR’s provisions impose requirements on how personal data, including names, addresses, and other personal identifiers, should be handled. Meanwhile, GPSR compliance involves ensuring that products are safe, which may subsequently require the handling of personal customer data for things like product recalls or safety notices.
The conflict arises in situations where the safety of products might require the gathering and processing of personal data, leading manufacturers to navigate both legislative frameworks carefully. For example, if a safety assessment under GPSR demands the tracing of a product through customer details, GDPR mandates that such actions be legally justified, minimally intrusive, and adequately secured.
Therefore, handling both regulations effectively requires a well-thought-out strategy. Sole traders need to ensure transparency with customers about data use, conduct regular assessments of their data processing activities, securely manage personal information, and perhaps seek professional guidance to remain compliant. By harmonizing their data practices with legal obligations, sole traders can mitigate potential conflicts while prioritizing both safety and privacy.