With the aim of reducing technical barriers to trade in the cross-border movement of goods as far as possible, Switzerland concluded the Mutual Recognition Agreements (MRA)32 with the EU in 2002: Mutual Recognition Agreements (MRA)32 with the EU in 2002. In these agreements, it was agreed to harmonize the standardization of 20 product areas, including construction products since 2008.
One aim of the MRA is to achieve unhindered access to foreign markets as far as possible. If the technical regulations of two contracting states are harmonized in a product sector, they can be recognized as equivalent in the agreement. In this case, only a conformity assessment is required for market access for these two countries. This is issued by a conformity assessment body of the exporting country recognized by the agreement, based on the technical regulations of the exporting country.
The Swiss Construction Products Act was adapted to the corresponding EU Regulation in 2015 as part of a complete revision. Since then, construction products may only be placed on the market in Switzerland in accordance with this legislation.
The CPR regulates the requirements for placing construction products on the market. According to Section 2 / Art. 3, Essential characteristics of construction products and basic requirements for construction works33, there are seven basic requirements for construction works that comply with the Construction Products Regulation (CPR):
- Mechanical strength and stability;
- Fire protection;
- Hygiene, health and environmental protection;
- Safety and accessibility during use;
- Sound insulation;
- Energy saving and thermal insulation;
- Sustainable use of natural resources.
Following the entry into force of the revised CPR in the EU, Swiss construction products legislation is to be revised.
32 seco.admin.ch: Mutual Recognition Agreements (MRA)
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