Industry support for standards enforcement

Support for the Commerce Commission’s activities to enforce standards for products and materials used in construction was voiced today by the Building Industry Federation (BIF) that represents the supply chain of the building industry.

“We stand for the integrity of products and materials that are brought to market whether manufactured locally or produced abroad,” says Bruce Kohn, Chief Executive of the Federation.

“We believe it is incumbent on all suppliers to ensure that what they make available to trade and consumers complies with the Building Code and standards.

“The issues in the current case involving steel mesh that is receiving attention from the Commission are complex and highly technical. It is, however, up to the company to demonstrate that its products are fit for intended use and are compliant. Regulatory authorities must hold suppliers to account for compliance.

“We are aware that the Commission is active in responding to concerns that may arise under the Fair Trading Act. We look to it as a source of enforcement where businesses and home owners have concerns that materials or products appearing on the market may not meet regulatory standards.

“The New Zealand building industry market is open to global supply with a wide range of steel types, plumbing and electrical supplies, claddings, window glass and power tools entering the country from new suppliers. In these circumstances it is imperative that the Building Code and Standards, as well as safety requirements, are enforced.

“We do not want a situation arising similar to that in Australia where a Parliamentary Inquiry was found necessary to examine a growing use of non-conforming building products.

“The steel industry is very active in promulgating Codes of Practice and looking to improve standards for the products it brings to market. We’re very much in favour of such industry self-regulation and see its current product assurance programmes as helpful to sustaining long-term trade and consumer confidence.”

ENDS