Three questions every installer should be asking their suppliers

The way construction products are evidenced, documented and tracked through the supply chain is changing. As expectations around product compliance continue to grow, installers are being encouraged to take a more active role in understanding the products they use and the information that supports them.

While many businesses already have strong relationships with their suppliers, simply assuming the right documentation is available may no longer be enough. Knowing what questions to ask and where to find the answers could become increasingly important in the years ahead.

According to John Mannell, Technical Officer and Training Manager at the Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF), installers should start getting into the habit of asking more questions.

So what should installers be asking?

1. Do You Have a Declaration of Performance?

For products covered by designated standards, a Declaration of Performance provides important information about how a product performs against specific criteria.

As expectations around compliance continue to grow, having access to this information will become increasingly important.

John explains: "You need to make sure that the products that are under a designated standard have the Declaration of Performance and the initial type testing."

By understanding what documentation exists and where it can be accessed, businesses can be better prepared to demonstrate compliance when required.

2. What Evidence Supports the Product's Performance?

Product claims should always be supported by evidence.

Whether it relates to thermal performance, safety, durability or another characteristic, businesses should be confident that the necessary testing and supporting information exists.

"If you are marketing a product that has a particular safety requirement or performance requirement, you've got to have the evidence that can demonstrate that is what the product is doing," says John.

While this information has often been available in the past, there is likely to be greater scrutiny around how it is accessed, retained and used throughout the supply chain.

3. What Information Can Be Passed Through the Supply Chain?

One of the key themes emerging from ongoing regulatory reform is the movement of product information through the supply chain.

Manufacturers produce testing data, certifications and performance information, but that information is increasingly expected to follow the product all the way through to installation.

For installers, this means having confidence that the products they use meet the standards and performance levels being claimed.

John believes businesses should not be afraid to ask for information if it is not readily available.

"If you can't access the information, you should be asking for it," he says.

Preparing for Change

The good news is that much of this information already exists.

The challenge is ensuring businesses know where to find it, understand it and retain it.

As regulations continue to evolve, asking the right questions today could help businesses avoid problems tomorrow.

For John, the message is straightforward. Installers should start engaging more closely with their supply chain, understand the products they use and ensure they have access to the evidence that supports them.

It is a simple step, but one that could become an increasingly important part of demonstrating compliance in the years ahead.

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.