EU standards to make building materials safer and cheaper

MEP Arlene McCarthy says these new standards come at a crucial time

Building materials in Britain's DIY shops and builders' merchants are set to become safer after new standards for an EU quality mark were agreed by Euro-MPs this week.

In addition to boosting the safety and quality of construction products available, the changes are also expected to bring prices down by making it easier for smaller companies to sell their products on the EU market.

Local Labour Euro MP, Arlene McCarthy said: “These new standards come at a crucial time. As the tough economic conditions bite, more and more people are looking to undertake sometimes quite significant work at home.”

"It is therefore more imperative than ever that that somebody buying construction materials understands how they should be used to avoid accident or injury.

These new standards mean that materials must be sold with safety advice, as well as information about any hazardous substances that might be involved.

"The new standards mean that people will be able buy their building materials with confidence. The CE mark is a clear statement that says a product is tested and is up to scratch."

Euro-MPs approved the new standards in a vote today alongside changes to make it easier for smaller companies to market and sell their products across the European Union. The costs of some materials are expected to come down as a result of the changes.

The new rules will come into force in 2013, giving companies time to adapt to the new legislation. Special provisions are included for smaller businesses to make it easier for them to meet the new rules.

Products that are to be sold on the EU market will need to meet certain standards for safety and quality. They will also need to be sold alongside clear information explaining how they can be safely used, including information such as any hazardous substances that may be included.