What is a Safety Certificate

 

A safety certificate is a document confirming that a specific product, process, or system meets the relevant safety standards and is safe for use. In the context of scaffolding, the safety certificate is particularly important to ensure that the structure will be stable, durable, and suitable for the anticipated loads and working conditions.

 

The Safety Certificate is intended for products not covered by the new approach directives, which do not require CE marking. Such products must still comply with national safety and quality regulations.

 

 

 

Here is the detailed process for obtaining a safety certificate:

 

Step 1: Preparation of Technical Documentation

 

- Technical specification: Technical description of the scaffolding, materials used for production, dimensions, load capacity, etc.

- Technical drawings: Detailed construction, assembly, and disassembly drawings.

- User instructions: Instructions for assembly, disassembly, operation, and maintenance.

- Previously conducted tests and analyses.

 

Step 2: Submission of the certification application

 

- The application must include the prepared technical documentation.

 

Step 3: Conducting Tests and Inspections

 

Depending on the previously conducted tests, it may turn out that additional tests need to be performed in the area of:

- Strength tests: Checking the load-bearing capacity of scaffolding elements, resistance to dynamic and static loads.

- Stability tests: Assessing the stability of the entire structure under various usage conditions.

- Material tests: Analyzing the quality and durability of the materials used for scaffolding production.

- Environmental tests: Examining the scaffolding's resistance to weather conditions, corrosion, etc.

- Others depending on the product and regulatory and normative document requirements.

 

Step 4: Conformity Assessment

 

- Analysis of test results: The certifying unit analyzes the test results in the context of applicable norms and standards.

- Documentation assessment: Checking whether the technical documentation is complete and complies with the requirements.

 

Step 5: Issuance of the Certificate

 

- Certificate of conformity: If the scaffolding meets all requirements, the certifying unit issues a certificate of conformity, confirming that the product is safe for use.

- Marking: The scaffolding receives appropriate marking (e.g., nameplates) containing information about the certificate and the certifying unit.

 

Step 6: Periodic Inspections and Supervision

 

- Periodic inspections: Regular checks of scaffolding at the place of use to ensure that they are in good technical condition and continue to meet safety requirements.

- Documentation audit: Reviewing technical documentation and certificates to verify compliance with current norms and regulations.

 

Granting the Certification Mark "B"

 

The certification mark "B" is usually a simple graphic symbol containing the letter "B", which is placed on the product, its packaging, or technical documentation. Benefits of Having the Certification Mark "B"

 

Benefits of certification

 

1. Consumer trust: Consumers have greater confidence in products marked with the "B" sign, which can increase competitiveness in the market.

2. Safety: Assures users of the safety and reliability of the product.

3. Legal compliance: Helps manufacturers and distributors meet legal and regulatory requirements.

 

 

Products Not Covered by the New Approach Directives

 

1. Handcrafted and unusual products - Products made by hand in small quantities that are not mass-produced.

 

2. Custom-made products - Products made to a specific customer's order that are not standard construction products.

 

3. Renewable materials and products - Products made from natural and renewable raw materials that may not be covered by the new approach directives.

 

4. Elements of traditional construction techniques - Products used in traditional construction techniques that are not standard industrial products.

 

5. Construction scaffolding

 

Why certification with IBiC?

 

1. Safety certificate for mark Bis confirmation that the manufacturer cares about ensuring the safety of their business and the products or services they offer.

 

2. Potential clients are increasingly paying attention to whether the product has been assessed by an independent unit.

 

3. Short lead time

 

 

Certification process – Three-year certification cycle

I. Certification

II. Surveillance audits (once a year)

 

 

 

National Regulations and Standards

 

Here are some key legal acts and standards that may apply:

 

1. Act of April 16, 2004 on construction products - Defines the rules for the marketing of construction products that are not covered by the new approach directives.

 

2. Regulation of the Minister of Infrastructure of April 12, 2002 on technical conditions to be met by buildings and their location - Contains detailed provisions regarding technical requirements for buildings and construction elements.

 

3. Polish Standards (PN) - Technical and quality standards for various construction products that may be used in compliance assessment.