QPA acts to reduce European confusion

The introduction of new European standards for aggregates used in construction could cause widespread confusion throughout the sector unless all producers, specifiers and users are aware of the changes to the existing standards, the Quarry Products Association (QPA) has warned.

The QPA and the Institute of Quarrying have launched an information campaign to raise awareness of the standards.

From 1 January next year, the British standards for aggregates used in the construction sector, such as BS882, BS1199/1200 and BS63, will be replaced with a new series of European standards for concrete, mortar or asphalt in their unbound and hydraulically bound forms.

QPA director Simon van der Byl said: "Unless everyone understands the detail of the new Europeans standards and how they impact across construction products it could result in confusion and disruption to contracts.

"In the UK next year our customers will buy 275 million tonnes of aggregates, so it is essential that we get the information out to all stakeholders and everyone is prepared for the changes when they come in at the beginning of next year," he added.

The British Aggregates Association (BAA) is also concerned with the introduction of the new standards.

"Frankly it's a bloody nuisance. The industry just doesn't want this. The materials being sold aren't going to change, it's just the way they are described that will change," said BAA executive officer John Baxter.

He continued: "There are cost implications too. Tarmac has estimated it will cost it around 70,000 just to change the screen in its laboratory. But a lot of the hassle is going to be in the administration side of things."

Baxter agrees that implementing the changes in January is a good idea as "the industry is quiet then", but still feels it will cause "three or four months of chaos".

The QPA is issuing guidance notes on the new standards to clients, the construction industry, and its own members.

"We are providing a comprehensive information serviceand will be pleased to offer support to the industry and our customers wherever we can," added van der Byl.