Construction Products Regulation (EU) No. 305/2011 and CE Certification

The Construction Products Regulation (305/2011/EU – CPR) was enacted in the European Union to ensure the free movement of construction products, improve safety, and guarantee that products are suitable for human health and the environment.

Under this regulation, construction products must bear the CE marking in order to be sold in the EU market. The CE marking shows that the product meets the essential requirements set out in the regulation and complies with designated standards.

Key Steps in the CE Certification Process

  1. Determination of Standards and Conformity Assessment Method
    The applicable standards and product classes are identified. Based on this, the appropriate conformity assessment method is chosen.
  2. Product Testing
    Products are tested according to relevant harmonized standards. These tests can be conducted in the manufacturer’s laboratory or in accredited laboratories.
  3. Factory Production Control (FPC)
    The manufacturer must establish and implement the necessary quality system procedures and documentation to control the production process.
  4. Notified Body Audit and Certification
    The right to use the CE marking can only be obtained through certificates issued by notified bodies authorized by the European Commission and competent authorities.
  5. Declaration of Performance (DoP)
    A document declaring the product’s performance characteristics, as specified in the regulation, is prepared.
  6. CE Marking
    Once all steps are completed, the manufacturer gains the right to affix the CE marking on the product.

Construction and Building Products Covered

The regulation covers a wide range of product groups. Common examples include:

  • Structural Metal Products: EN 1090, EN 10025, EN 10219
  • Construction Chemicals: EN 934, EN 998, EN 1504 series
  • Geotextile Products: EN 13249, EN 13250, EN 13491
  • Fire Protection Products: EN 671, EN 12101, EN 54 series
  • Road Construction Materials: EN 12591, EN 14023, EN 13808
  • Chimneys and Components: EN 1856, EN 13084
  • Insulation Products: EN 13163, EN 13707
  • Wood Products: EN 14081, EN 13986
  • Cement and Binders: EN 197, EN 459
  • Aggregates and Masonry Units: EN 12620, EN 771 series
  • Windows and Doors: EN 14351, EN 13241
  • Control Cables: EN 50575

Importance of CE Certification

Obtaining CE certification for construction and building products ensures:

  • Legal Requirement: Products without CE marking cannot be sold in the EU.
  • Market Access: Enables free circulation within the EU.
  • Safety and Quality: Demonstrates compliance with defined standards.
  • Environmental Compliance: Controls the impact on human health and the environment.
  • Competitive Advantage: Enhances product reliability through conformity declaration.