The Construction Products Directive or “CPD” as it is generally known, is a New Approach Directive but it differs from other New Approach Directives because of the fact that in the case of the CPD, European harmonised standards, or alternatively, the European Technical Approvals (ETA) are the only way of providing proof of conformity with the essential requirements. In other words, whereas for New Approach Directives standards are voluntary, this is not the case.

The reason for this is that the essential requirements defined in the CPD do not refer to the construction products but to the construction works in which products will be incorporated. Therefore, direct compliance with the essential requirements is not possible in the case of the CPD and the compliance with the harmonised standards or ETAs is the only way to obtain the CE marking.

The Commission is considering a revision of this complex Directive. A proposal is expected to be out by the end of 2007.

Orgalime has re-activated its task force on this issue ín order to follow the foreseen revision and be able to give coordinated and reliable input to the work of the revision. We are following the developments on the revision. Given the very specific nature of work in this area, much of the day-to-day discussions on the Directive are taking place either at sectoral level or within the framework of CEPMC (Council of European Producers of Materials for Construction) of which Orgalime is a member. Orgalime is also following up developments and sending a monthly information package on more specific issues related to the existing Directive, to our network.

 

 

 

 

Picture Courtesy of Bosch