Build Check, the UKAS accredited Notified Body for CE marking for windows and doors, reports that it is still being asked about CE marking from companies yet to comply with the new legislation brought in on 1 July 2013.
“We suggested earlier this year that up to 80% of companies may not be complaint with the law, and we don’t see this improving,” said CE marking expert and technical director at Build Check, Richard Bate.
“Certainly there is still a significant number who have not started the process. But the biggest problem for companies is how to keep up to date with CE marking legislation.”
Even people who hit the deadline last year may not have updated their CE marks. Changes to hardware may have a knock-on effect to safety device testing; different glazing options can affect thermal transmittance; and switching window systems requires updating the Declaration of Performance. For example companies may have started advertising ‘A’ or ‘A+’ energy rated windows this year, and upgrades like this need to have a separate CE mark.
In direct response to the growing problem for many companies, Build Check Publications offers a full advice centre to help keep visitors and subscribers legal and up to date with Building Regulations and changing legislation.
“We are already hearing about companies installing windows in commercial applications that are being asked for evidence of CE marking,” added Richard. “Now we’re seeing some companies receive visits from Trading Standards. One year on, we believe it’s only a matter of time before the first cases come to court.”
To keep up to date with the latest information on CE marking, go to www.buildcheckpublications.co.uk
