The CE marking of fabricated structural steelwork became mandatory on 1st July 2014. This represents a major development for engineers and steelwork specialists, and demands careful attention to the new obligations imposed. In addition, those involved in the sector, such as Lasershape, have had to implement a new quality standard to comply with the Construction Products Regulation (CPR), which is the legal basis for the new regime.
“Before the 1 July there was no legal requirement involving fabricated structural steelwork, but as we are involved extensively in the construction sector, producing parts and assemblies that include staircases and balustrades, we have completed a rigorous process that ensures we are compliant,” said company director Mike Ward.
Under the CPR, new legal obligations have been placed on manufacturers of construction products used within the EU to CE Mark their products where they are covered by either a harmonised standard or European Technical Assessment (ETA). This applies not only to constituent products (such as steel beams and bolts) but also to fabricated elements and systems made from CE Marked products. In the UK, penalties for non-compliance include suspension notices, prohibition notices, notices to warn, and application for forfeiture. For certain offences the penalties may include a fine, imprisonment or both.
“We only buy material that is CE Marked from approved mills and we now have a BSI-audited, controlled process in place for the thermal cutting of CE Marked plate,” Mr Ward added.
Lasershape can measure its laser cutting operations and see how process heat affects the material – always working within a predetermined range.
“This has been audited by BSI managers and we now have a controlled process in place for the laser profiling of CE marked steel. Any buyers who need full traceability of their steelwork can now buy from Lasershape safe in the knowledge that we can certify legally to having a controlled measure in place.”
Lasershape now has what is known as a Factory Production Control Certificate complete with CPR number that covers up to and including Execution Class 4.
Lasershape
www.lasershape.com
