TIPSASA Members incur great expenses to ensure that their products are tested and in compliance with the relevant SABS product standard which includes amongst others fire testing, durability and thermal efficiency, ensuring that the products used in buildings are safe in the event of a fire and are in compliance with the Application of the National Building Regulations SANS 10400.
WHY SHOULD PRODUCTS BE TESTED IN ACCORDANCE WITH A STANDARD?
Q: What is a Standard?
A: A standard is essentially a technical document that standardise, generally in terms of quality and performance, and it serves as a form of a benchmark.
Q: Why do we need standards?
A: Accessibility to Standards ensures good quality products.
Q If tested in accordance with a Standard does it mean that it automatically complies with the requirements?
A: No – Many products have been “tested” in accordance with a standard and it might have failed. Always ask for the complete test report to ascertain whether in complete compliance..
Q: “It has been tested overseas”? Why is the test report not valid in SA?
A” It might not comply with our National Building Regulation. Each Country has its own building regulations.
Q: Who does it benefit?
A: Each and every person using a product which has been tested and is in compliance with the requirements of that standard or specification.
Q: Why are standards amended or reviewed?
A: In order to stay current.
Q: Why is the standard date relevant when products are tested?
A: All accredited or any laboratory worth its salt will tell you that the golden rule is: The laboratory shall ensure that it uses the latest valid edition of a standard! Whether SANS, ASTM, EN or any other International Standard – ALWAYS USE THE LATEST EDITION!!
Q: So why is it that some insulation manufacturers still quote outdated standards on their advertising materials, such as “tested in accordance with SANS 1381-4:1985”?
A: Quite simply the answer is: Their products do not comply with current standards or have not been re-tested.
Q: How can we check this?
A: Contact TIPSASA or the SABS