Construction Products Regulation

Euroclasses are uniform assessment methods or classifications reflecting real-life environments for building products based on reaction-to-fire performance.

The Euroclass Table (refer to Euroclass Product Criteria table) defines seven classes for the fire performance of cables. Heat release and flame spread are the main classification criteria. Smoke production, flame droplets and acidity are additional classification criteria.

Based on the CPR framework, the actual performance level required for any particular regulated application is a national matter.

The basis for country-level CPR decisions can include fire risk, ease of escape (in the event of fire) or exposed cable surface area. 

Prior to placing a product on the market, there are certain rules that manufacturers must follow.

Manufacturers must make a Declaration of Conformity/Performance stating the Euroclass performance for the specific product. This is followed by affixing the CE marking and retaining all related documentation for a period of 10 years.

Depending on a product's Euroclass, manufacturers may also be required to monitor the product (including sample testing as per additional AVCP requirements). Furthermore, manufacturers must ensure the product classification is easily identifiable, provide contact information and safety instructions/information in appropriate languages. Manufacturers must also take corrective measures when necessary, and cooperate with requests from authorities.

When working with the project team to draw up specifications, end-users should refer to the harmonized technical specifications (specifically to the requirements of individual characteristics).

When choosing products for construction projects, end-users should review the Declaration of Conformity/Performance from the manufacturer. They must also check national annexes or standard recommendations, which offer guidance about appropriate minimum product performance levels. Compliance with local building regulations should also be followed by end-users.

Integrators have several responsibilities similar to those of end-users.

They should refer to the harmonized technical specifications (specifically to the requirements of individual characteristics) when drawing up project specifications. When selecting products for use in European buildings, integrators should be sure to review the manufacturer’s Declaration of Conformity/Performance. They must also check national annexes or standard recommendations for guidance on appropriate minimum product performance levels. Compliance with local building regulations should also be ensured.

Importers must follow several steps to comply with CPR standards.

They must verify manufacturers have met all CPR requirements, including additional requirements as determined by the AVCP rules. Additionally,  importers should ensure their name and contact details are visible on the product, product labeling or related product documentation. Product instructions and safety information must also be in the appropriate language for the market.

When stored or moved, products must not be altered to void compliance. As long as the product is on the market, it should be monitored. Documentation should be retained for a period of 10 years by importers. Importers must take corrective measures when necessary, and cooperate with any requests from authorities.

As part of an integrated project team, distributors must ensure that product is compliant and has all documentation to verify CPR compliance.

All instructions and safety information must be in the appropriate language of the market. Distributors should check to see that the manufacturer has made the product identifiable and the manufacturer’s/importer’s contact details are visible. If products are stored or moved by the distributor, it must be done in compliance with CPR requirements and products should not be altered.

Distributors must take corrective measures when necessary, and cooperate with any requests from authorities. When a distributor places a product on the market under its own trade name—or modifies a product in any way—the distributor is considered to be the manufacturer.

Previously, many countries maintained their own national fire regulations making the movement of products across Europe challenging.

National laws containing essential product requirements were not harmonized. The introduction of CPR standards have changed this as the rules are applied without differences of interpretation by each member state.

A Notified Body is an independent, third-party entity recognized by the European Union. CPR includes three types of Notified Bodies—

 - Product Certification 

 - Factory Production Control Certification 

 - Product Testing Laboratory

Belden has made significant investments to ensure relevant cable products comply with CPR rules. Our cross-functional team of research and development, product management, production, quality and purchasing experts has ensured all of relevant cables are tested, applicable CPR performance levels are identified and third-party approvals are obtained from notified bodies.

Declarations of Conformity/Performance and CE markings are then made available. Aligned with AVCP requirements, Belden demonstrates compliance to CPR, the Euroclass performance as declared by the Declaration of Performance (DoP) and has established the necessary means to take responsibility for the conformity of the product with its declared performance.