Essential requirements are set out in the annexes to the directives, and include all that is necessary to achieve the objective of the directive. Products may be placed on the market and put into service only if they are in compliance with the essential requirements.

New Approach directives are generally designed to cover all hazards related to the public interest that the directive intends to protect. Thus, compliance with Community legislation often requires simultaneous application of several New Approach directives and, possibly, other Community legislation. Further, some elements may have been left outside the scope of applicable Community legislation. This allows Member States to draw up national legislation in accordance with Articles 28 and 30 of the EC Treaty.