09.09.2008
The British Approvals Service for Cables (BASEC) has welcomed the new Euroclassification of cables for fire that will be implemented over the next few years:
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| Dr. Jeremy Hodge |
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However,
BASEC Chief Executive Dr Jeremy Hodge also warns end users against making assumptions about cable performance based on this new classification. "Just because a cable has this new classification does not necessarily mean it will conform to the commonly applied cable standards and specifications", he said.
"The cable will only be recognised as having been subject to one particular fire test for building construction applications, upon which the classification is based. Sellers of cable should not use phrases such as 'CPD approved', as these are misleading."
The test method for this European-wide classification is still not finalised and published. It will be EN 50399, and there will be a number of grades in the Euro classification - A down to F. It is not correct to say that a Class A cable is any better than a Class F cable.
Dr Hodge added: "Designers and installers will need to use cables with a classification appropriate to the building construction purpose in mind, and specifiers need to be clear about that.
"Cables will still need the normal testing and approval to recognised cable standards and we would recommend that where there is doubt installers use BASEC-approved cables which they know will be fit for purpose.
"We support the harmonisation of cabling standards and the emphasis on fire safety across the board and we are happy to offer advice to manufacturers and end users where there may be confusion with the introduction of this classification."
BASEC will assist manufacturers in establishing the Euro classification of their cables, but this cannot be started until the European Commission confirms and publishes the test method, and conformity assessment requirements are finalised.
By detailed examination of manufacturers' production processes and controls and rigorous testing, BASEC ensures that cable products meet appropriate national, European and international standards.
The BASEC schemes are designed to assess an organisation's ability to produce goods and services consistently to specification and customer requirements, in a safe manner and with due regard to environmental needs.
About BASEC:
BASEC is the recognised leader in product certification services for electrical cables, data/signal cables and ancillary products in the UK. Through its teams of highly skilled engineers and auditors who possess extensive in-depth commercial and industrial experience, BASEC has a reputation for professional and rigorous assessment processes which ultimately lead to the issuing of BASEC's highly respected certification.
In addition, BASEC offers auditing for Process Capability in cable making, Certificates of Assessed Design for innovative cable products and independent testing and reporting in the event of disputes.
The picture shows BASEC Chief Executive Dr Jeremy Hodge.
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Related contacts
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British Approvals Service for Cables (BASEC)
23 Presley Way, Crownhill,
Milton Keynes MK8 0ES
Tel: 01908 267300
Fax: 01908 267255
Email: mail@basec.org.uk
Web: www.basec.org.uk |
BASEC
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Source: BASEC & James Hunt |
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