The History:
EN 1279 has been in the background of the glass trade since 1988, when discussions began with a view to agreement on a common European standard for sealed unit manufacture. The early 90’s saw the passing of the law; Construction Products Directive (CPD), that covered a large range of building materials. In essence it says if a common European Standard exists for any product then it is legally binding to use it. The previous British Standard, BS 5713 had been optional but when EN1279 came into force compliance is COMPULSORY.
The final part of EN 1279 (Part 5) was published on 23rd of March 2005 and was posted on the Official Journal. The 21 month transition period has been completed and Compliance is now mandatory (from 1st March 2007).
In July 2013 the Construction Products Directive (CPD) will become the Construction Products Regulation (CPR), at which point CE Marking is also mandatory.
CENSolutions from its conception has specialised in designing and implementing Quality Systems that provide an easy, user friendly solution to continuing compliance. Our CMS (Compliance Management System) Mark compliments the tried and tested FPC System.
THIS STANDARD IS NOW LEGALLY BINDING AND CE MARKING AS OF 1st JULY 2013.
The Principle of EN 1279 Self Certification
Basic Requirements
- Implementation of FPC (Self Auditing) System, requires the manufacturer to produce and comply with the principles set out in Part 6. This includes Routine Periodic and Gas concentration testing on a predefined frequency.
- Units to be tested to EN1279 Part 2 (& 3 if appropriate) at a Registered Test House – TNO, BSI or other approved Testing Establishment. Part 2 is the high humidity cycling weathering test that measures the rate at which moisture penetrates the unit. Part 3 is a combination of a shortened weathering test and a gas leakage test that results in an index that equates to the gas loss rate over a one year period
- Preparation of Technical File including: Product Indication Papers (PIP’s relating to Part 4 and other components used) and a detailed System Description (often thought to be a simple description of the components used in the manufacture of test units but in reality is a highly detailed document).
- Declaration of Conformity produced by the Manufacturer claiming conformance to EN 1279 Part 5 annex ZA.
- Correct labelling to the specification as laid down in EN 1279 Part 5. Until 1st July 2013 CE mark is not mandatory if UK manufacturers are selling product within UK borders but will be after this date.