Product certification schemes and the construction industry

Construction firms have a lot to consider when embarking on a project, as they need to be compliant with a plethora of regulations and legislations. Using products that are credible and safe is vital, which is where product certification schemes come in.

What is product certification?

Product certification schemes verify that a product is reliable and performs to certain standards, which is essential when designing and constructing buildings that will be used for a long time. In order to be certified, the products undergo a rigorous testing process which consists of on-site inspections and laboratory testing. The assessments determine the strength, safety and durability of the product and ensure it meets the minimum requirements for quality, safety, performance and trust. Periodic retesting will then take place to ensure consistent compliance when the product is in use.

How did it all start?

Certification of products has been around for over a century. In the early 1900s, an organisation now known as the British Standards Institute (BSI) developed the kitemark symbol to signify that a product met certain standards. Tramway rails were the first product to receive this stamp of approval in 1903, followed by lighting products. 120 years later, the kitemark is still a recognised sign of reliability and trust within the industry. Since then, other reputable third-party organisations have been established that assess and certify products in the UK, such as BRE and Intertrek.

What are the benefits?

Certification schemes are fundamentally a form of quality control that serve as reassurance not just for contractors but for consumers, too. It usually means that products have a longer life span due to a reduced risk of failures, plus money is saved in the long run as fewer repairs are needed. To meet such standards, manufacturers often need to aim high, which can foster more creativity and lead to the creation of better, more efficient products.

Is certification mandatory?

It is essential for some products to be certified before they can be sold – for example, appliances must be tested for electrical safety, and hardware and fire doors need to be fire safe. In circumstances where certification is not essential, it is still highly beneficial as it sets the product apart from others of its kind. For instance, Intertrek’s Green Leaf mark confirms the manufacturer is environmentally conscious, meaning that green-minded consumers are more likely to choose it. Also, some certification marks are globally recognised, which is beneficial for items that are exported internationally. 

Since Brexit, the regulatory landscape has become even more complex. The CE Mark, which indicates that a product meets the legal standards set by the European Union, is no longer applicable on UK goods. The UKCA mark was therefore brought in as a replacement and, to enter the EU market, a product now needs both the CE and UKCA mark. As regulations are constantly evolving, it is therefore vital that there is a competent and knowledgeable project manager at the helm of each construction project to ensure that no stone is left unturned.