Speedy Kitemark Approval Keeps Product Sales on Track

Just seven weeks from the submission of samples was all it took for BSI Product Services to grant permission for Barnsley based Norvik PVCu Window Systems Ltd to apply the coveted Kitemark to its new range of double-glazed sealed units.

‘The rigorous approval process of testing to achieve Kitemark approval normally takes up to 4 months,’ said Steve Day, Managing Director of Norvik PVCu Window Systems Ltd, ‘but thanks to the first class co-operation and support we received from the whole team at BSI Product Services, our products were able to gain approval in an amazingly short time. In fact, our understanding is that this was possibly the fastest ever approval for double glazed units.’

Norvik, a specialist in the new build sector, has over 20 years of experience in the manufacture of PVCu windows, doors and conservatories for applications as diverse as social housing and self-build as well as for the domestic market. The company was looking to expand the business and with an annual outsourcing cost of over £500,000 for glass, the decision to start manufacturing its own sealed units and invest in the necessary production equipment was a logical progression.

Thanks to the company's experience of achieving a consistently high product quality to a recognised and accredited industry standard, Norvik appreciated the importance of applying for the BS EN 1279 Kitemark right from the outset. The fact that the internationally recognised Kitemark could then be displayed prominently on the spacer bar meant that the units would be immediately acceptable on new build projects - both here and in Europe.

The company investigated the requirements for gaining the accreditation but had concerns about loss of sales while the rigorous testing associated with the Kitemark approval process was being carried out.

‘We contacted BSI Product Services and explained our concerns,’ said Steve, ‘and it was able to offer us a very interesting option. BSI would carry out a short seven-week moisture penetration test on our products, in line with Part 6 of BS EN1279. If the units passed, we would be given permission to use the Kitemark immediately.’

‘However,’ he continued, ‘the test would continue for the full 16 weeks prescribed by Part 2 of the standard in accordance with testing requirements.’

As a further bonus for Norvik, due to the timing of the completion of the glass plant and the speed and expediency of BSI scheduling the tests, BSI Product Services was able to start the test just prior to Norvik's two week Christmas shutdown period. The total period taken for the units to achieve the Kitemark was, therefore, effectively reduced to just five working weeks.

As expected, all of Norvik's double-glazed sealed units performed flawlessly in the tests. As a result, the permission to use the Kitemark granted at seven weeks was made unconditional after the full sixteen weeks of testing had been completed.

‘With new machines, a new factory but experienced staff, the output of sealed units has gone from zero to 1,500 per week in just a few months. This is quicker than we had projected in our initial business development plan,’ said Steve, ‘And, thanks to the support and co-operation we received from BSI Product Services, every one of them now bears that all-important BS EN 1279 Kitemark!’

The Company is already focusing on the next stage of its product development programme, combining its vast PVCu Window knowledge with its newly acquired glass skills in order to introduce a BFRC A, B and C energy rated window to satisfy future industry demands.

Web: http://www.norvik.co.uk