Ensure you’re your product claims are supported by evidence | GGF

Understanding what Designated Standards, Harmonised Standards and European Technical Assessment are and how they support product information will become increasingly important as regulatory requirements continue to evolve.

According to John Mannell, Technical Officer and Training Manager at the Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF), designated and harmonised standards form an important part of demonstrating product performance and providing confidence throughout the supply chain. We are used to recognising CE and UKCA product markings, but the paperwork behind it needs more attention.

"With glass, for example, insulated glass units come under a harmonised standard," explains John. "Vacuum insulated glazing has a European Technical Assessment, which is another route to demonstrating product compliance." 

All these routes provide information that helps businesses understand how products perform and the evidence that supports them.
As more emphasis is placed on product information throughout the construction process, businesses should understand which route applies to the products they specify, purchase or install.

John believes the starting point is knowing what information should accompany a product.

"If you buy a product, you need to be asking for the technical documentation that supports your marketing claims" he says. 

The Declaration of Performance provides important information about the characteristics of a product and the standards or technical assessments that support those claims. Having access to this information helps businesses understand the products they are using and the evidence behind the manufacturer's performance declarations.

As construction product reform progresses, greater emphasis is also being placed on products that sit outside designated standards. In these cases, manufacturers will increasingly be 

John explains: "Where product standards don’t exist, manufacturers will have to supply a risk assessment under the new General Safety Requirement, a new introduction under Construction Product Reforms" 

For many businesses, preparing for these changes starts with reviewing the products they already supply.

"This is something you should be looking at now," says John. "Go through the products you have. Do you supply windows and doors? Do you supply balustrades with base rails and glass? Go back to your suppliers and make sure that you ask for the correct evidence." 

Reviewing existing product information now can also help businesses ensure that the claims they make remain accurate and supported by appropriate documentation.

John adds: "Make sure that the claims you are making performance-wise on your website or your marketing materials, you've got the evidence to support that." 

Construction product reform continues to place greater importance on transparency, product information and evidence throughout the supply chain. Understanding designated standards and the documentation that supports product performance will help businesses build confidence in the products they use while preparing for future regulatory requirements.

For more information about the GGF and how it can support your business’ growth, please visit www.ggf.org.uk or call 0207 939 9100.