The Construction Products Directive contains essential requirements relating to "materials intended for construction". "Materials intended for construction" are defined in the Directive as those products that are manufactured to form a permanent part of structures. Structures refer to both buildings and works of art.
The Construction Products Directive came into force on 27th June 1991. At present, the Construction Products Directive is in a transition period since the European Commission still has to establish when the Directive will become a legal obligation.
Materials intended for construction must comply with the fundamental regulations during an economically relevant lifetime and provided that regular maintenance is carried out. These fundamental regulations are subdivided into six aspects, namely:
- mechanical strength and stability;
- fire safety;
- hygiene, health and environment;
- safety of use;
- sound nuisance;
