Ahead of the government white paper Hanna Clarke, digital and policy manager at the Construction Products Association, explores the issues it raises
In a few months, the UK government will publish a white paper with a new regulatory framework for construction products. The aim is to make construction products safe.
But what is meant by a safe construction product? What is the responsibility of the manufacturer? And what methods can be used to demonstrate that they’re safe?
We are yet to see what legal responsibilities will explicitly be placed on manufacturers in the new regime, but there are several clues that suggest the direction of travel.
For example, the General Safety Requirement will extend the regulatory coverage to construction products that don’t currently sit under the current Construction Product Regulations (CPR) and will also overlap with those that do. This will bring approximately 2 thirds of all construction products under legislation for the first time.
And for the first time there will be a National Regulator for Construction Products, checking that manufacturers are discharging their regulatory obligations.
What is a safe construction product?
A manufacturer might supply the most superb flour, but the quality of the cake depends on the competence of the baker, the method, the instruments and the other ingredients.
Similarly, safe construction products don’t necessarily equal safe systems, safe buildings or other safe built environments. But they sure are important in achieving those things. I would describe a ‘safe’ construction product as one where it:
- Makes clear statements about what the product can and cannot do
- Does not make misleading statements in relation to it, and
- Is placed on the market with appropriate competence and care.
There is a lot of work being done by industry to help both manufacturers demonstrate that their products are safe, and for those using those products to recognise that they are safe.
“There is a lot of work being done to help manufacturers demonstrate products are safe and for those using products to recognise they are safe.”
PAS 2000 – Construction products – Bringing safe products to market – Code of practice gives manufacturers a clear road map as to what they should demonstrate.
It can work in alignment with products already covered by the CPR, and give
clear guidance to manufacturers who do not produce products previously covered
by legislation. It is due to be published early 2026.
BS 8670-2 –Competence frameworks for the built environment– Part 2: Core criteria for construction product competence aims to bring consistency to how the supply chain writes competences in training and qualifications. It is due for public consultation in early 2026.
Building on BS 8670-2, under the Industry Competence Steering Group (ICSG), Sector Led Group 5 – Construction Product Manufacturers is building a programme to create competence frameworks for manufacturers.
The Code for Construction Product Information (CCPI) gives third party assessment of product information and brings manufacturers on a continuous improvement journey, and is aligning with the work of the ICSG. Products that carry the CCPI mark can be trusted to have clear information and to perform as described.
