In the construction industry, professionals at all stages of the supply chain are equally responsible for ensuring the safety and wellbeing of their end-users and the greater community. A simple method to achieve this is by using industry-compliant products and materials in all construction projects.
Where can I find product compliance requirements?
The Australian Standards and National Construction Code contain specific criteria for product conformance within the multiple sectors of construction. Construction professionals should be well-versed in the relevant standards and guidelines for their particular sector, making it easy to identify conforming products once it’s time to specify, purchase or install.
What are the risks of using non-compliant products?
Unfortunately, there is a high number of inferior quality, non-compliant products in the market. These products are often appealing to contractors or procurement officers as they are typically priced at a lower rate than other compliant products.
Though the upfront savings of non-compliant products can be enticing, using these sub-standard products may lead to further costs down the track, should any faults or damages occur after project completion. Non-compliant products that do not have the required performance characteristics fall short of the Standards criteria and are thus more prone to failure.
Aside from putting the community at risk, damage resulting from product failure requires additional costs, time and labour for restoration and reflects poorly on the companies involved in the delivery of the project.
Roles & responsibilities across the construction supply chain
Product compliance is an important consideration during all stages of the supply process.
Product manufacturers need to be aware of the compliance requirements of the products they make, ensuring that all performance requirements are met and that they have sufficient evidence to prove product compliance such as testing, assurance and certification.
Wholesalers, distributors and retailers must ensure that the products and materials they supply do not breach trade laws nor industry-specific requirements for safety or performance.
Architects, designers and engineers involved in the planning and design of construction projects must specify and approve products that are ‘fit-for-purpose’, meaning that they are appropriately suited for the intended use. Adding a reference to the relevant Australian Standards and product requirements within a project specification helps to reduce the chances of non-conforming products being used.
Procurement officers play an important part in selecting the appropriate products to be installed in a project. They must have a good understanding of product functionality and ensure that all products they source are compliant with industry and project requirements.
Builders and contractors who work on project installation are similarly tasked with ensuring that the products being installed are compliant with industry requirements. They must also ensure that products are installed as per the design intent so that they are able to function correctly.
Our Quality Guarantee
At SVC, product quality and compliance are non-negotiable. Our products are compliant with Australian Standards and independently tested and certified by accredited authorities.
When purchasing an SVC product, you’ll be supporting local business and advocating the use of safe, compliant products within Australia’s construction industry.
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