The Fire Sector Federation has established a Product Assurance Group to consider issues related to standards of assurance of fire safety products, use and trade implications.
The group’s initial focus will be on the impact of UKCA marking, due to be introduced in 2021 and the longer term considerations in the post transition Brexit period.
The Federation aims to provide clarity for members on imminent changes, along with advice to government on future policy as it affects the fire safety sector.
Chris Miles, Business Development Director at UL and Chair of the FSF Product Assurance Group, said: “The Product Assurance Group will draw on the unique pool of knowledge and expertise of fire related matters within the Federation to provide the clarity to help our members navigate the impeding complexities of UKCA.
“We will also examine the long-term implications for a post EU transition building safety regime, raising the bar on fire safety legislation with recommendations for government policy beyond the current arrangements.”
The UKCA marking will apply to most goods currently subject to CE marking. It can be used from January 2021 but CE marking can be still be used for a 12 month transition period up to 1 January 2022. CE marking will only remain valid after that where GB and EU rules remain the same or if the EU changes its rules. The UKCA marking will not be recognised in the EU.