LNE Products– FIRE/PS Review No. 3 - March 2015
FIRE BEHAVIOR CERTIFICATION OF THERMAL
INSULATION MATERIALS
RAW MATERIALS USED FOR THE MANUFACTURING OF
EXPANDED POLYSTYRENE (EPS)
Contents
Contents ... 2
1. SCOPE ... 3
2. REQUIREMENTS THE MANUFACTURER HAS TO COMPLY WITH ... 5
2.1. REQUIREMENTS RELATING TO PRODUCTS – REFERENCE STANDARDS ... 5
2.2. REQUIREMENTS RELATING TO THE QUALITY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM .... 5
2.2.1. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS ... 5
2.2.2. SPECIFIC QUALITY REQUIREMENTS ... 5
3. OBTAINING CERTIFICATION ... 11
3.1. COMPILING THE APPLICATION FILE ... 11
3.1.1. APPLICATION FILE ... 11
3.1.2. DOCUMENTS TO PROVIDE ... 12
3.2 APPLICANT'S/HOLDER'S COMMITMENTS ... 16
3.3. INITIAL EVALUATION PROCESS ... 18
3.3.1. EXAMINATION OF THE CERTIFICATION APPLICATION ... 18
3.3.2. VERIFICATIONS IN PLANTS ... 18
3.3.3. DECISION AND NOTIFICATION ... 20
4. PRODUCT MONITORING PROCESS – CHANGES AND EVOLUTIONS ... 21
4.1. PRODUCTS MONITORING PROCESS ... 21
4.1.1. FREQUENCY OF VERIFICATIONS ... 21
4.1.2. VERIFICATIONS IN PLANTS ... 21
4.1.3. CLAIMS AND COMPLAINTS ... 23
4.1.4. DECISION AND NOTIFICATION ... 24
4.2. CHANGES IN THE ORGANIZATION OF THE COMPANY OR IN THE
PRODUCT ... 24
4.2.1. CHANGE RELATING TO THE HOLDER ... 24
4.2.2. TRANSFER OF THE PLACE OF PRODUCTION ... 24
4.2.3. CHANGE IN THE PRODUCT – NEW PRODUCTS ... 24
4.2.4. TEMPORARY CESSATION OF PRODUCTION OR CONTROL ... 25
4.2.5. PERMANENT CESSATION OF PRODUCTION OR ABANDONMENT OF
CERTIFICATION ... 25
5. ORGANIZATION OF AUDITS ... 26
6. LNE READING COMMITTEE ... 26
7. CONSULTING OF INVOLVED PARTIES ... 26
8. INFORMATION TO HOLDERS ... 27
9. APPEAL AGAINST DECISION ... 27
10. LEGAL ACTION ... 27
1. SCOPE
This document provides a reference framework for the following products:
- raw materials used in the manufacturing of expansed polystyrene (EPS);
- extruded polystyrene foam (XPS).
The certification aims at demonstrating that the raw material certified for EPS or the product certified for XPS complies with the regulatory requirements relating to fire behaviour.
Below are some of the regulatory requirements for these products:
A- Extract from Instruction Technique n° 249 (technical directive No. 249) found in the Arrêté du 24 mai 2010 portant approbation de diverses dispositions complétant et modifiant le règlement de sécurité contre les risques d’incendie et de panique dans les établissements recevant du public (Order dated 24 May, 2010 approving various provisions supplementing and amending the safety regulation against the risks of fire and panic in establishments open to the public):
"5.1. Insulating systems without airspace
Systems using insulating material classified at least as A2-s3, d0 do not require specific provisions for building in terms of fire safety. Where the insulating material has a classification inferior to A2-s3, d0, the provisions below apply:
Insulating expanded or extruded polystyrene has a CE marking and a E euroclass. Moreover, the manufacturer has to prove that flame retardant treatment is being monitored on the manufacturing site of the raw material with a performance level equal to D euroclass for the 60 mm regular thickness of expanded polystyrene or for the 40 mm regular thickness of extruded polystyrene. A third-party certification is considered as a sufficient proof for this characteristic. These provisions also apply to structural insulated panels of sandwich type which are made up of a board of expanded or extruded polystyrene placed between two boards of wood wool classified as B-s1, d0."
B- Extract from several orders dated 15 April, 2010 and relating to general provisions applying to the various buildings classified in classes 1510, 1530, 2662 and 2663 of the
Nomenclature des installations classées pour la protection de l’environnement (Nomenclature of facilities classified for environment protection):
"2.2.6. Structure of buildings [… ]
– concerning insulating material(s): – either they are classified as A2-s1,d0;
– or the “support + insulating material” system is classified as B-s1,d0 and complies with one of the following requirements:
[… ]
– the thermal insulation is made of several layers. The first layer (in contact with the covering support) is at least 30 mm thick and has a density higher than 110 kg/m3. It is mechanically attached and has an HHV inferior or equal to 8.4 MJ/kg. Upper layers are made up of insulating materials classified as D-s3,d2 and are 60 mm thick.
As an option, certification also covers Euroclass E as laid down in annex E of standard EN 13163:
Products targeted by this option of the standard are:
- EPS raw material with flame retardant
- Non-expanded polystyrene beads containing additives such as a flame retardant treatment and a blowing agent.
In the context of this option, the objective of the certification is to prove that the certified EPS raw material complies with the requirements of annex E of standard EN 13163.
The certification of raw material only concerns products for which E euroclass of fire reaction has been declared, in accordance with standard EN 13501-1.
Please note: The manufacturer of EPS products remains responsible for the production control of these EPS products in plants.
2. REQUIREMENTS THE MANUFACTURER HAS TO COMPLY WITH
2.1. REQUIREMENTS RELATING TO PRODUCTS – REFERENCE STANDARDS
NF EN ISO 11925-2 (February 2013): Reaction to fire tests - Ignitability of products subjected to direct impingement of flame. Part 2. Single-flame source test
NF EN 13823 (February 2013): Reaction to fire tests for building products - Building products excluding floorings exposed to the thermal attack by a single burning item.
OPTION: For the option Euroclass E, in accordance with annex E of standard EN 13163, the reference standards are:
NF EN ISO 11925-2 (February 2013): Reaction to fire tests - Ignitability of products subjected to direct impingement of flame. Part 2. Single-flame source test
EN13501-1 (February 2013): Fire classification of construction products and building elements — Part 1: Classification using data from reaction to fire tests.
NF EN 13163 (February 2013): Thermal insulation products for buildings - Factory made expanded polystyrene (EPS) products — Specification
2.2. REQUIREMENTS RELATING TO THE QUALITY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM 2.2.1. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
The manufacturer’s quality system must comply with the provisions of article 5 of standard NF EN 13172 (August 2014): Thermal insulating products – Evaluation of conformity – Article 5: Requirements for production control in plants – Tasks for the manufacturer.
OPTION: For the option, the reference document for the evaluation of conformity is annex A of standard NF EN 13172 (November 2014).
2.2.2. SPECIFIC QUALITY REQUIREMENTS
Identification and traceability - § 7.5.3. of standard ISO 9001 (2008) The manufacturer must provide instructions relating to product identification.
Traceability is a requirement. Therefore, provisions defined in standard ISO 9001 regarding unique identification of products must be taken into account.
Monitoring and measurement of product - § 8.2.4. of standard ISO 9001 (2008)
The control plan implemented within the framework of this reference document must include at least the following tests:
a) Ignitability test
- Equipment
The equipment is described in article 4 of standard NF EN ISO 11925-2.
The combustion chamber may be part of a fume cupboard or any other extraction system.
The device for measuring the air velocity must be standardized on a regular basis, at least once a year. After three successive calibrations and if it has been proven that there is no significant variation in the results, the anemometer can be calibrated at a two-year frequency.
Test method:
The test method is defined in article 7 of standard NF EN ISO 11925-2.
It is mentioned in the preliminary operations that the distances between the burner and the test specimen must be checked by means of the spacer specified in 4.9.3. The burner is tilted at 45° and the tip of the burner flame is in contact with the specimen surface at 40 mm above the bottom edge.
The exposure time of the flame is 15 seconds + 5 seconds of observation.
For EPS, a surface exposure is performed on six 20 mm thick test specimens.
If the 20 mm thick test specimens are casted, tests are performed with the surface skin.
For XPS: a surface exposure is performed on six 20 mm thick test specimens cut so that the surface skin is tested if applicable. 3 specimens are cut following the direction of extrusion, 3 are cut perpendicularly to the direction of extrusion.
The dimensions of the test specimens are as described in article 5.2 of standard NF EN ISO 11925-2.
Within the framework of the factory production control, the dimensions of the test specimens may be (190 ± 3) mm long.
For EPS: specimens shall be conditioned in an oven at 70 °C for 48 to 72 hours prior to the performance of the ignitability test.
For XPS: specimens must be conditioned according to the requirements of standard NF EN ISO 11925-2.
The height of the flame is measured with 1 cm steps, only on the exposed side.
When the tip of the flame is between two graduations, the upper graduation is taken into account.
- Frequency:
The test for EPS is performed once in a production week, for each line of products, and at least for each manufacturing campaign.
A line of EPS products is defined by a given formulation of polymerization and includes the granulometric fractions coming from this formulation.
For XPS, the test is performed once in a production week, by product range and line. The lowest and highest thicknesses produced during the week are tested.
A line of XPS products is defined by a given type of expansion agent and a type of surface quality associated. It covers all products manufactured with this expansion agent and this type of surface.
There are two surface qualities: panels which are planned, and panels which are not planned.
- Conditions of acceptance:
For XPS:
The mean of the flame heights of the 6 test specimens must be smaller or equal to 6 cm. For each of the specimens tested, the maximum flame height must not exceed 10 cm.
For EPS:
The mean of the flame heights of the 6 test specimens must be smaller or equal to 5 cm. For each of the specimens tested, the maximum flame height must not exceed 10 cm.
If only 1 of the 6 tests performed has a nonconforming result, 2 additional tests may be performed.
— — —
The mean of the test results is used for the final result. The value is rounded down or up to the nearest integer if the digit after the decimal point is
0.49 cm or
0.5 cm respectively. A test report model is included as an annex.b) SBI test
The Fire Growth Rate FIGRA0.4MJ is the maximum value of the heat input/time ratio during the
exposure period of the test specimen. A multiplying factor of 1,000 is systematically applied.
- Test method:
The test method is defined in § 8 of standard NF EN 13823.
- Test conditions:
The samples to be tested are installed according to the following assembly plan:
Assembly plan:
SBI Assembly plan (in accordance with NF EN 13823) EPS insulator / XPS 1000x500x60/40 mm right edge
Substrate (Conform NF EN 13238): Gypsum plasterboard thickness 12 mm +/-1 Euroclass A2-s1, d0
or
Calcium silicate board thickness 11 mm +/-2 Euroclass A1 260/240mm 800mm 5 0 0 m m 1 0 0 0 m m Long Wing
Horizontal and vertical joint
6 0 / 4 0 m m 500mm 60/40mm 4 9 5 m m 495mm 1 5 0 0 m m Short Wing 60/40mm 260/240mm 500mm
Metal brackets (screw + washer diam.=70mm)
300mm 200mm 300mm 5 0 0 m m
The test is performed:
- on a 40 mm thick sample for XPS;
- on a 60 mm thick sample for EPS.
- Frequency:
The manufacturer must have an SBI classification report not older than 5 years, prepared by a notified laboratory within the framework of the construction products regulation.i
The classification report must mention the density of the product tested.
The test results are valid for a density value up to 15 % higher than the density tested, and for all densities lower than the density tested.
- Conditions of approval on the mean value of 3 tests:
FIGRA0.4MJ
750 W/s.OPTION: In the framework of the certification of Euroclass E, the control plan laid down in standard EN 13163: 2012 Annex E §7.2 shall be implemented and observed by the manufacturer.
a) Ignitability test
The ignitability test shall be performed in accordance with EN ISO 11925-2 with the thermal attack on the edge. The falling of burning droplets is taken into account.
The manufacturer shall perform the following tests:
Test Frequency Test performed
by
Thickness of the specimens
Density of the specimens
Initial type test 1 every 5 years Raw material
supplier 10 mm and 60 mm Minimum and maximum Factory production control 1 per day or 1 per batch (which gives the highest
frequency ) Raw material supplier 20 mm Between 15 kg/m3 and 20 kg/m3 Factory production control
1 every 3 months Raw material
supplier 20 mm
Minimum and maximum
Initial type test 1 every 5 years Testing
laboratory 10 mm and 60 mm Minimum and maximum Continuous
surveillance 1 per year
Audit by test laboratory 10 mm and 60 mm Minimum and maximum
Table 1: control plan to be observed by the manufacturer
For the initial type test valid for 5 years, a classification report according to EN 13501-1 from an approved body is required.
i
All SBI tests performed for the preliminary study are taken into account for the initial type test (report to be provided to LNE), allowing test traceability and references asked for certification.
The company commits to prepare all the samples as defined in table 1: 4 ignitability tests shall be carried out for each reference of product.
Control of nonconforming product - § 8.3. of ISO 9001 standard
The manufacturer must handle nonconforming products according to one of the following provisions:
- by implementing actions to deal with the nonconformity, e.g. by informing the customer of a product downgrading;
- by allowing the use, release or approval of the nonconforming product by derogation: in this case, the certifying body must first give its approval;
- by implementing actions preventing the product from being used (e.g. scrapping).
Customer complaints - § 7.2.3 and 8.5.2 of standard ISO 9001
Complaints concerning products subject to a certificate, as well as the way they have been dealt with, must be recorded and kept.
3. OBTAINING CERTIFICATION
3.1. COMPILING THE APPLICATION FILE
Any company producing raw material used in the manufacturing of expanded polystyrene (EPS) or extruded polystyrene foam (XPS) may apply for obtaining certification so as to comply with regulatory requirements concerning fire behaviour (see § 1 of this document).
3.1.1. APPLICATION FILE
Any manufacturer wishing to present a range of raw material used for producing his/her own expanded polystyrene (EPS) or extruded polystyrene foam (XPS) must beforehand read this reference document and state that he/she agrees with its contents.
The application should mention the products presented for certification.
Definitions:
A line of raw material used for the manufacturing of expanded polystyrene (EPS) or extruded polystyrene foam (XPS) is defined by the following criteria:
- a commercial code number
- the chemical nature of the base material - the chemical nature of fire retardants.
The applicant must submit a file containing documents and information listed in § 3.1.2 hereafter for each of the plants manufacturing products which are covered by the application.
The application will be considered only if controls provided for in part 2 of the present document have been performed regularly for the products concerned for at least three months or thirty batches.
All documents must be written in French or in English.
If the applicant is not from a country of the European Economic Area, his/her application must be submitted together with a representative set up in the European Economic Area which is duly accredited and is responsible for the whole production which may be certified and commercialized on the French territory.
The representative must be registered in the French commercial register and comply with the French legal obligations regarding in particular insurance. The representative is designated as an “intermediary”.
Any modification made to the line defined for the certification must be notified to LNE, which will consider if supplementary tests are necessary.
3.1.2. DOCUMENTS TO PROVIDE
- Form letter for certification application, typed on headed paper and written according to the appended model (form No. 1a, with annex for cases where the applicant is outside the European Economic Area).
-General information sheet and list of products concerned by the certification application (form 1b).
- File including:
. Concise description of the product / of the line of products concerned by the certification application: commercial code number…
. Quality manual or certificate of conformity of the quality management system according to ISO 9001 (when applicable).
. Description of the plan for the control of products ready for commercialization (description of measurements and tests performed, as well as their frequency).
. A valid SBI classification report on FIGRA (valid for 5 years from the date when the test is performed) issued by a laboratory notified within the framework of the construction products Regulation for fire reaction tests.
OPTION:
Any company producing raw material used in the manufacturing of expanded polystyrene (EPS) may apply for obtaining certification so as to obtain certification of conformity of EPS raw material in order to comply with regulatory requirements concerning fire behaviour (see standard EN 13163: 2012 Annex E § 1).
Any manufacturer wishing to present a range of raw material used for producing expanded polystyrene (EPS) for certification must beforehand read standard EN 13163 and state that he/she agrees with its contents.
The file to provide includes the same elements that the file for “Fire behaviour certification of thermal insulation materials” of LNE and is independent from the file submitted for this certification, except for the quality manual. The additional elements include the classification reports in accordance with standard EN 13501-1, issued by an approved body, as defined in table 1, and valid.
The procedures for obtaining certification for Euroclass E are the same as for the "Fire behaviour of thermal insulation materials" certification.
Form 1a was modified in order to take into account the specificity of the application for Euroclass E in accordance with annex E of standard EN 13163
FORM 1a
APPLICATION FOR CERTIFICATION / EXTENSION OF CERTIFICATION*
(To be written on the headed paper of the applicant)
Monsieur le Directeur Général du
LABORATOIRE NATIONAL DE METROLOGIE ET D'ESSAIS Pôle Certification Plurisectorielle
1, rue Gaston Boissier
75724 PARIS CEDEX 15 - FRANCE
SUBJECT: Certification application
Mr Managing Director,
I, undersigned (name and position) ... representing the company (identification of the company – head office) ...
ask LNE to make the verifications necessary for obtaining the certification of the products described hereafter, which comply with the specifications provided for in part 2 of the present document.
These products are manufactured in the plant located at (full address of the plant) ... . I declare that I am aware of the reference document mentioned above and that I commit myself to comply with it during the whole duration of the certification.
Date
Stamp and signature of the manufacturer
ANNEX TO THE APPLICATION FILE (1)
I empower the company (2) ... ... represented by Mr. (name and position) ... ...
to act in my name on the French territory for any matter relating to the certification.
As such, I request that all costs at my expenses be directly charged to this company. The company accepts by means of this document to be my intermediary and undertakes to pay for invoices upon receipt.
I commit myself to notify LNE immediately if a new intermediary is appointed to replace the one mentioned above.
Yours respectfully,
Date
Stamp and signature Stamp and signature
of the intermediary’s representative (3) of the manufacturer’s representative (3) __________________________________________________________________________
(1) This annex should be filled in only by applicants located outside the European Economic Area.
(2) Details on the intermediary must include: name, legal status, head office, Commercial Register number. (3) The signatures of the intermediary and of the manufacturer must be preceded respectively by the handwritten
phrase “Bon pour acceptation de mandat” (I agree to be the intermediary) and “Bon pour mandat” (I empower the intermediary).
*
FORM 1b
GENERAL INFORMATION SHEET – LIST OF PRODUCTS
Name and address of applicant:
Contact person: Phone number: Fax number: E-mail address:
Address of the manufacturing unit:
Contact person: Phone number: Fax number: E-mail address:
References of products / lines of products:
Chemical nature of the base material:
Chemical nature of the fire retardant additives:
If applicable, name and address of the intermediary in France:
Done at:
On:
OPTION EUROCLASS E IN ACCORDANCE WITH ANNEX E OF STANDARD EN 13163 FORM 1a
APPLICATION FOR CERTIFICATION / EXTENSION OF CERTIFICATION*
(To be written on the headed paper of the applicant)
Monsieur le Directeur Général du
LABORATOIRE NATIONAL DE METROLOGIE ET D'ESSAIS Pôle Certification Plurisectorielle
1, rue Gaston Boissier
75724 PARIS CEDEX 15 - FRANCE
SUBJECT: Certification application
Mr Managing Director,
I, undersigned (name and position) ... representing the company (identification of the company – head office) ...
ask LNE to make the verifications necessary for obtaining the certification of the products described hereafter, which comply with the specifications provided for in Annex E of the standard EN 13163.
These products are manufactured in the plant located at (full address of the plant) ... . I declare that I am aware of the reference document mentioned above and that I commit myself to comply with it during the whole duration of the certification.
Date
Stamp and signature of the manufacturer
ANNEX TO THE APPLICATION FILE (1)
I empower the company (2) ... ... respresented by Mr. (name and position) ... ...
to act in my name on the French territory for any matter relating to the certification.
As such, I request that all costs at my expenses be directly charged to this company. The company accepts by means of this document to be my intermediary and undertakes to pay for invoices upon receipt.
I commit myself to notify LNE immediately if a new intermediary is appointed to replace the one mentioned above.
Yours respectfully,
Date
Stamp and signature Stamp and signature
of the intermediary’s representative (3) of the manufacturer’s representative (3) __________________________________________________________________________
(1) This annex should be filled in only by applicants located outside the European Economic Area.
(2) Details on the intermediary must include: name, legal status, head office, Commercial Register number. (3) The signatures of the intermediary and of the manufacturer must be preceded respectively by the phrase “Bon
pour acceptation de mandat” (I agree to be the intermediary) and “Bon pour mandat” (I empower the intermediary).
*
3.2 APPLICANT'S/HOLDER'S COMMITMENTS
The applicant/holder endeavours generally to give the LNE the means to proceed in the operations necessary to the good process of the evaluation and the monitoring of his file and in particular to :
constantly meet the requirements defined by these certification rules, and to implement the necessary changes in the timeframes set by the LNE in the event that the certification rules change,
give the representatives authorised by the LNE the information and working documents necessary to the good progress of the evaluation;
only give information which the applicant/holder ensures is true and accurate;
designate a manager as the LNE’s special contact person;
introduce to LNE’s authorised representatives the personnel assigned to the different missions;
give its personnel all the instructions required so that it collaborates with the LNE’s authorised representatives and accepts to participate in whatever interview;
provide authorised LNE representatives with means of access and transportation within the sites and buildings being audited, including sites of sub-contractors if necessary;
inform authorised LNE representatives of the provisions and health safety instructions applicable to the sites and buildings being audited and its personnel and put at their disposal whatever relevant equipment;
pay the LNE the amounts due for evaluation, in accordance with the financial conditions defined and accepted by the applicant/holder.
authorise the presence of an observer who is required to respect confidentiality. This observer may be imposed upon the LNE by standards or agreements of which it is a signatory. The applicant/holder is systematically informed of the presence of this observer by the LNE prior to the audit.
take the necessary measures if non-conformities are noted, within the timeframe stipulated by the LNE,
return to the audit manager the duly filled out non-conformity sheets, within 3 weeks from the last day of the audit.
implement the actions required to enable the certificate to be granted within 11 months of the initial audit. Once this deadline has passed, a new initial audit will have to take place before certification,
It is also incumbent on the certificate holder to:
to refer to the certification in accordance with the provisions defined in chapter §3.3 of the reference document, when applicable, only for the products covered by the certificates issued by LNE and in line with the applicable requirements;
reserve the commercial name of the product for only the products covered by the certificates issued by the LNE and which conform with the applicable requirements;
inform the LNE beforehand of any modification to the product and any information likely to affect compliance with the requirements of these rules, the assessment methods being defined in part 4,
provide the LNE with any data or information necessary to draw up and maintain the certificate;
keep a record of all complaints of which holder has been aware concerning the compliance of (a) product(s) with certification requirements and to provide the LNE with these recordings upon request, and
o take any appropriate action regarding these complaints and imperfections noted in the products which impact upon their compliance with the certification requirements,
o document the actions taken.
stop making any reference to the certification of the products concerned and to stop using all of the means of communication making reference thereto in the event of suspension, reduction, withdrawal or refusal of renewal of the certificate,
authorise follow-up authorisations to be carried out during the period of validity of the certificate, based on the frequency specified in part 4, in addition to any other duly justified supplementary evaluation.
make declarations on the certifications in line with the scope of the certificate,
not use the certification granted by the LNE in a way which could damage the LNE, nor make a statement on the certification of its products which the LNE could consider as misleading or non-authorised;
reproduce the certificates in their entirety, including appendices in the event of provision to a third party.
3.3. INITIAL EVALUATION PROCESS
3.3.1. EXAMINATION OF THE CERTIFICATION APPLICATION
The application and the file enclosed addressed to LNE are subject to an examination prior to verifications in plants.
If some elements do not comply with the requirements of the present document, LNE notifies the applicant and performs the audit only after a new file considered as entirely compliant with the present document is presented.
When the file is complete and payment has been made, an on site audit is prepared.
OPTION: For the certification of Euroclass E, the modalities for the consideration of the application are identical to those of the certification LNE Fire/PS, except for the reference standard: Annex E of standard EN 13163.
3.3.2. VERIFICATIONS IN PLANTS
The examination of the application includes a preliminary audit of each plant where the products submitted for certification are manufactured. The audit is performed by auditors who are bound by professional confidentiality.
3.3.2.1 Quality audit
The auditor(s) perform(s) a quality audit, which aims to verify that the quality management system set up by the manufacturer is existing and is indeed implemented, and that this system complies with requirements defined in § 2.2.
The audit is performed according to the general principles defined in standard NF EN 19011 for quality audits. For example, the scope of the audit and the different steps of the audit are defined in an audit plan sent to the company prior to the audit.
The audit has generally a duration of 1 day (including the audit itself and the writing of the report on site). The duration can be adapted according to the number of products/lines of products submitted for certification.
The duration may be reduced if the audit is performed together with an audit performed by LNE within the framework of another certification (e.g. joint audit with ACERMI or NF-reaction to fire, etc.).
When the manufacturer is ISO 9001 certified, a copy of the certificate of conformity to the requirements of ISO 9001 should be provided to LNE.
The conditions in which tests are performed and results are handled are examined in details during the audit.
Auditors may make a copy of any document relating to production controls that they consider necessary, upon agreement of the manufacturer.
This provision does not apply to documents relating to the formulation of the materials and products concerned by the certification.
At the end of the audit, the lead auditor writes an audit report describing in particular the efficiency of the quality system implemented, the strong points, the weak points and an explicit list of nonconformities if there is any.
The audit leader issues two copies of this report and sends one to LNE. He provides the applicant with the original report.
The applicant notifies LNE of the possible corrective actions taken after the identification of nonconformities.
3.3.2.2 On site tests
a) Ignitability test
The test should be performed according to the conditions and requirements defined in part 2 of the present document.
The test is performed for each range of product.
In case of non-compliant result, the auditor takes samples for testing at LNE.
b) SBI test (FIGRA)
The manufacturer must have an SBI classification report not older than 5 years.
OPTION: The arrangements for verifications in plants are the same as for LNE certification Fire/PS.
The certification of Euroclass E audit is carried out at the same time that the audit performed in the framework of LNE certification Fire/PS. Audit's additional duration is of 0.5 day. The duration can be adapted according to the number of products/lines of products submitted for certification.
The conditions in which tests are performed and results are handled are examined in details during the audit.
On site tests:
a) Ignitability test
The test should be performed according to the conditions and requirements defined in section 7 of standard EN 13163.
Tests are carried out for every product range.
In case of non-compliant result, the auditor takes samples for testing at LNE.
b) Initial test and follow-up test every 5 years
The manufacturer must have a classification report not older than 5 years in accordance with EN 13501-1. This report is provided to him/her by an approved body.
3.3.3. DECISION AND NOTIFICATION
LNE notifies the applicant of one of the following decisions, based on the results given by the examination of the application after consulting the Comité de Lecture:
a) Granting of certification
b) Refusal of certification
The decision may be postponed to allow a supplementary examination of the application.
The maintaining of the certification is subject to the results of verifications defined in part 4.
The certification is strictly limited to products for which it was granted, that is to say duly defined products from duly defined plants, manufactured in the conditions provided for in the present document.
The holder of a certificate can refer to the certification as follows:
EPS: “The line(s) of raw material(s) X/Y/Z manufactured in (the) plant(s) X/Y/Z and used for the manufacturing of expanded polystyrene is/are compliant with the requirements of the document “Fire behavior certification of thermal insulation materials” of LNE (reference).”"
XPS: “The extruded polystyrene foam(s) X/Y/Z manufactured in (the) plant(s) X/Y/Z, is/are compliant with the requirements of the document “Fire behaviour certification of thermal insulation materials” of LNE (reference).”"
OPTION: For Euroclass E, decision and notification arrangements are identical to LNE certification Fire/PS. The difference between the two is the reference standard.
The holder of a certificate can refer to the certification as follows:
"EPS Products made of this raw material (not mixed with other materials) and within a density range from …..kg/m3 to ……kg/m3 will fulfil the requirements of class E according to EN 13501-1”.
4. PRODUCT MONITORING PROCESS – CHANGES AND EVOLUTIONS 4.1. PRODUCTS MONITORING PROCESS
LNE organizes the monitoring of products by having verifications performed in the manufacturing unit. These verifications aim at controlling that the manufacturer complies with its obligations.
4.1.1. FREQUENCY OF VERIFICATIONS
The manufacturing unit is audited at least once a year.
When the plant is not ISO 9001 certified, it is audited twice a year (monitoring audit).
When the plant is ISO 9001 certified, or subject to supervision B1 (DIN 4102) by a third party, then the monitoring audit is performed once a year.
Additional audits may be performed if LNE identifies any nonconformity.
4.1.2. VERIFICATIONS IN PLANTS
Examinations performed focus mainly on changes made since the previous audit - if any – concerning manufacturing, control conditions and any possible change relating to the organization of the quality management system.
During each audit:
- A quality audit is performed according to the general principles defined in standard NF EN 19011 for quality audits. For example, the scope of the audit and the different steps of the audit are defined in an audit plan sent to the company prior to the audit.
- In his/her presence, the auditor has product verification tests performed, in order to control the conditions in which tests and controls are performed and results are handled by the manufacturer.
Auditors may make a copy of any document that they consider as necessary, upon agreement of the manufacturer.
This provision does not apply to documents relating to the formulation of the materials and products concerned by the certification.
4.1.2.1. Quality audit
The audit has generally a duration of one day (including the audit itself and the writing of the report on site). The duration can be adapted according to the number of products (lines of products) submitted for certification.
The duration may be reduced if the audit is performed together with an audit performed by LNE within the framework of another certification (e.g. joint audit with ACERMI or NF reaction to fire, etc.).
At the end of the audit, the lead auditor writes an audit report describing in particular the efficiency of the quality system implemented, the strong points, the weak points and an explicit list of nonconformities. The report also includes a review of the tests performed during the audit.
The audit leader issues two copies of this report and sends one to LNE. He provides the holder with the original report.
The applicant notifies LNE of the possible corrective actions taken after the identification of nonconformities.
4.1.2.2. Tests during the audit
a) Ignitability test
Preservation of specimens for ignitability test to be carried out on site during the audit:
For EPS: the manufacturer must keep a set of 8 specimens for each range of products every 2 months.
For XPS: the manufacturer must keep a set of 8 specimens for each production campaigns of a product range and, for a year of production, a minimum of 6 sets spread over all periods of production.
The objective is to have samples for various production campaigns since the previous audit. Please note: This leads to store 48 specimens over a period of 12 months. These specimens must be available during the audit for the performance of the ignitability test.
During the audit, an ignitability test is carried out for each range of product, sampled on a set of specimens stored in accordance with the conditions and requirements defined in part 2 of the present document.
In case of non-compliant result, the auditor takes samples for testing at LNE.
b) Explanation of the SBI test (FIGRA)
OPTION:
The Euroclass E certification audit is performed at the same time that the audit carried out in the framework of LNE certification Fire/PS.
The duration of the additional audit for Euroclass E certification in accordance with Annex E of standard EN 13163 is of 0.5 or 1 day depending on the number of certified product lines.
The audit report also includes a review of the tests performed during the audit for the Euroclass E certification.
Tests during the audit
a) Ignitability test
Preservation of specimens for ignitability test to be carried out on site during the audit:
The objective is to have samples for various production campaigns since the previous audit. In order to do so, the manufacturer must keep a set of 32 specimens for each period of production of 4 months, with a 10 mm and 60 mm thickness and a minimum and a maximum density. The 32 specimens are divided as follows:
- 8 specimens 10 mm thick with minimum density
- 8 specimens 60 mm thick with minimum density
- 8 specimens 10 mm thick with maximum density
- 8 specimens 60 mm thick with maximum density
PLEASE NOTE. : This leads to store 96 specimens over a period of 12 months. These specimens must be available during the audit for the performance of the ignitability test.
During the audit, an ignitability test is carried out for each range of product, sampled on a set of specimens kept, according to the conditions and requirements defined in part 2 of the present document.
In case of non-compliant result, the auditor takes samples for testing at LNE.
b) Explanation of the classification report according to standard EN 13501-1
The manufacturer must have a classification report not older than 5 years.
4.1.3. CLAIMS AND COMPLAINTS
In case of claims or complaints from users, controls may include sampling or tests where products are used. In this case, the holder is asked to appoint a representative who will be present when sampling and tests are performed.
4.1.4. DECISION AND NOTIFICATION
LNE notifies the holder of one of the following decisions, based on the results given by the control and after consulting the Comité de Lecture:
a) Demand for corrective actions if needed.
b) Formal request to have the identified deviations stopped within a given time frame, with or without an increase in the controls.
c) Suspension of certification (with a maximum duration of 6 months, renewable once. Beyond this time frame, withdrawal is pronounced).
d) Withdrawal of certification.
In case of b), c) and d) sanctions, additional verification fees are at the holder’s expenses, whatever the results may be. Decisions are enforceable as soon as they are notified.
In the event of a serious deviation from the reference document, LNE can take one of the above decisions as a precautionary measure once the deviation is verified.
OPTION: For the certification of Euroclass E, decision and notification modalities are identical and also apply for this certification.
4.2. CHANGES IN THE ORGANIZATION OF THE COMPANY OR IN THE PRODUCT 4.2.1. CHANGE RELATING TO THE HOLDER
In case of merger, liquidation or takeover of the holder, the certification he/she may have is automatically ceased. The holder must notify LNE without delay of any decision that may eventually result in a change in the legal status or in the name of the company.
LNE will consider the conditions for a possible new application.
4.2.2. TRANSFER OF THE PLACE OF PRODUCTION
Before any partial or total relocation of the production to another manufacturing site, the holder must send to LNE a written notification defining the new production conditions planned. The certification should not be mentioned until LNE takes a decision after auditing the new manufacturing site (continuing of the certification or examination of a new application).
4.2.3. CHANGE IN THE PRODUCT – NEW PRODUCTS
Products must comply with the technical file which was subject to application and take into account the possible remarks made upon granting of the certification.
As a consequence, the holder should send to LNE a written notification of any change he/she would like to make to products (including changes relating to the manufacturing and control means and to the quality management system implemented which may have a decisive impact on the conformity of the production).
A new product and/or a modified product are subject to an application for extension (forms 1a and 1b and file for the products concerned by the extension, according to § 3.1.2).
LNE informs the holder, upon receipt of the extension application, of the verifications to be performed for the examination of the application.
The application is examined and the product change can be applied only upon agreement of LNE.
4.2.4. TEMPORARY CESSATION OF PRODUCTION OR CONTROL Products must be manufactured on a regular basis.
The holder must immediately notify LNE of any temporary cessation of production or control of a product. The manufacturer must notify LNE when production is resumed. The marketing of products is in this case subject to audits and/or tests (defined by LNE).
4.2.5. PERMANENT CESSATION OF PRODUCTION OR ABANDONMENT OF CERTIFICATION
If the holder ceases permanently the manufacturing of a product or abandons certification, he/she must notify LNE and mention the estimated time needed to sell out products left in stock. LNE suggests conditions in which the stock of products can be sold.
5. ORGANIZATION OF AUDITS LNE performs the audits.
It may, however, call on duly qualified external auditors according to LNE procedures. This subcontracting of audits is governed by a contract (independence and confidentiality requirements).
The holder or applicant must facilitate the operations that agents in charge of audits are required to carry out in the context of their mission.
The LNE must be informed of any challenge concerning the members of an audit team within 10 days from when the audit team receives the notification in order for it to be taken into account.
6. LNE READING COMMITTEE
The reading committee is required to give an opinion on the certification decision and comprises, as a minimum:
- a representative of the management (who cannot exercise the role of project head and who has not participated in the audit),
- a certification project head independent of the file presented (who has not participated in the audit and is not in charge of the file),
- a certification project head in charge of presenting the file.
The committee is chaired by the LNE management representative.
This reading committee has the mission of:
- examining audit and test reports and formulating an opinion and a recommendation on the decisions to be taken,
- if necessary, making a preliminary examination of appeals against decisions by the LNE and formulating an opinion on the action to be taken,
- assessing the quality of reports.
7. CONSULTING OF INVOLVED PARTIES
Within the framework of the fire behaviour certification of thermal insulation materials (raw materials used for the manufacturing of expanded polystyrene and extruded polystyrene foam), LNE collects the opinions of the selected involved parties in the draft reference document and its revisions. Feedback is taken into account before the final validation of the draft and of revisions.
The involved parties consulted for the draft reference document and its revisions include:
- representatives of entities applying for certification or holding a certification for the fire behaviour certification of thermal insulation materials (raw materials used for the manufacturing of expanded polystyrene and extruded polystyrene foam);
- representatives of users of the certified products;
- representatives of the administrations concerned (DSC; DGCCRF; MEEDEM); a representative of LNE.
8. INFORMATION TO HOLDERS
LNE makes available on its website up-to-date lists of products subject to a certificate and of holders of a certificate.
At least once a year, LNE gathers all holders or send them a written notice to present:
- a summary of the controls performed. Documents examined during holders meetings must be anonymous;
- draft revisions of the present reference document.
9. APPEAL AGAINST DECISION
The applicant or holder of a certificate can contest any decision about him by basing him/herself on relevant information and by notifying LNE.
First, LNE reviews the file again, keeping in mind the elements that motivate this appeal. LNE notifies the applicant that it takes a new decision or maintains the former one within 15 working days.
In case the applicant wants to maintain his/her objection, an appeal can be issued by the applicant or the holder of the certification against the decision of LNE.
This appeal of the decision of LNE has not suspensory effect and must be substantiated. LNE is notified by registered letter with an acknowledgement of receipt within 15 working days.
The file is examined by LNE within 30 days after receipt and is then reviewed by the Comité de Lecture when it concerns the decision of certification or the rules of certification. LNE notifies the author of the appeal of the preservation or change of its decision.
In case of preservation of the same decision after examination and submission to the Comité de Lecture's opinion, the appeal is presented to LNE's Comité de Certification et de Préservation de l'Impartialité (committee of certification and preservation of impartiality). After its review, this committee gives its conclusions.
LNE notifies the final decision to the company.
10. LEGAL ACTION
When a fraudulent use of a certificate is reported or identified, LNE orders an investigation and initiates proceedings according to the results.
Any measure aimed at misleading on the quality or origin of the material is considered as fraudulent, including in particular:
. any reference to the certification for materials manufactured or transformed in conditions which do not comply with the requirements of the present reference document, or any certification made by a producer which did not apply for certification or has not been granted a certification yet;
. any advertisement or offer which may result in a confusion for users between products which are certified and products which are not certified.
11. FUNDING
Costs relating to the management and control within the framework of the present certification are covered as follows:
a) through the fees for obtaining certification, which cover the costs of the technical file examination and of audits and are retained even if the products of the applicant are not certified.
b) through an annual charge paid by holders, which covers the costs of file management and monitoring audit(s).
Costs incurred by travels (travel and living expenses) are entirely assumed by the applicant or the holder and are charged at cost.
Rates are reviewed yearly based on the increase rate of LNE. They are published separately.
Annex for the certification Fire/PS
Model for ignitability test report:Identification of the product: Date of the test:
Operator: Date of manufacturing:
Reference documents: Standard NF EN 11925-2 and the present reference document for
certification.
dimensions: 250 or 190 mmiilong; 90 mm wide and
(20 +/- 1 mm) thick
Density [kg/m3]:
Air speed: (0.7 0.1) m/s
Date of calibration of the device for measuring
air speed:
Surface exposure – burner spacer 5 mm
Flame height applied: (20 ± 1) mm Duration of flame application: 15 s, duration of
observation after flame application: 5 s – total duration of the test: 20 s
Sample number 1 2 3 4 5 6 C1iii C2iii
Direction of extrusion (L for length or W for width) for
XPS Ignition (yes/no)
Persistence of flame for a period greater than 3 s
Tip of flame 10 cm (yes/no)
Maximum height of flame (cm)
With 1 cm steps
Rounded up value Results:
Flame height (mean of samples):
(limit of 5 cm or 6 cm –rounded up/down to the nearest integer)
10 cm reference line reached for at least one sample yes - no
CONFORM: yes - no
ii
Delete as appropriate
Annex for the Euroclass E certification in accordance with standard
EN 13163
Model for ignitability test report:
Identification of the product: Date of the test:
Operator: Date of manufacturing:
Reference documents: NF EN 11925-2 and Annex E of standard EN 13163.
Dimensions: 250 mm long 90 mm wide and 10 or 60
mm (± 1) thick
Density [kg/m3]:
Density: Minimum Maximum
Air speed: (0.7 0.1) m/s
Date of calibration of the device for measuring
air speed:
Edge exposure – burner spacer 16 mm
Flame height applied: (20 1) mm Duration of flame application: 15 s, duration of
observation after flame application: 5 s – total duration of the test: 20 s
Sample number 1 2 3 4 5 6 C1iv C2 iii
Ignition (yes/no)
Persistence of flame for a period greater than 3 s
Tip of flame 150 mm
(yes/no)
Time required to reach the reference line
Presence of burning droplets / particles
Ignition of the filter paper
Results:
150 cm reference line reached for at least one sample yes - no
CONFORM : yes - no
