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The Importance of British Standards in Above Ground Drainage
In drainage, British Standards (BS) certifications, such as the Kitemark and WRAS (Water Regulations Advisory Scheme) approval, are more than technical details; they represent reliability, safety, and accountability. While contractors often seek cost-saving measures, architects focus on compliance, ensuring plans adhere to BS certifications. This distinction creates potential challenges, particularly when cost pressures lead to the use of non-certified products.
At Plastech®, we wanted to highlight whether British Standards really matter and the risks of bypassing BS Kitemarked products.
Understanding the Role of Certifications in Tendering
During the tendering process, architects will specify certified products to ensure compliance with regulations and protect the integrity of their designs. These certifications, like the BS Kitemark and WRAS approval, cover areas such as performance, safety, and environmental impact.
However, contractors often submit under-budget tenders to secure work, leaving little room for contingencies. To reduce costs, they may look for cheaper alternatives to the certified products outlined in the plans. While this approach might reduce upfront expenses, the architect is not guaranteed to accept the change, and if they don’t, this could end up costing you more.
Why Non-Certified Products Are a Risk
- Unreliable Performance BS Kitemark certification ensures that products have undergone a rigorous approval process, including extensive testing for durability, safety, and reliability. These tests simulate real-world conditions, ensuring materials can withstand the demands of their intended use.
- Architect AccountabilityArchitects specify BS-certified products to safeguard their liability. If a non-certified product fails, accountability can flow through the supply chain, even implicating suppliers. If contractors push for cost-effective alternatives, suppliers must ensure that their products meet certification requirements to avoid legal exposure and reputational harm.
- Missed Regulatory ComplianceNon-certified products can fail to meet Building Regulations, potentially leading to project penalties or stoppages. This risk is particularly high for water systems, where WRAS approval is important to ensure safety and hygiene.
Why Plastech® Upholds BS Kitemark and WRAS Standards
Plastech® exclusively supplies above-ground products certified to British Standards. This commitment to quality not only ensures compliance but also reduces the risks associated with uncertified alternatives.
Many of our products are even made in the UK, ensuring adherence to British Standards from the outset. This local focus aligns with the requirements of the UK market, unlike EM-certified products commonly used in Europe.
