Review of the system of testing, certification and accreditation of new building products

This report examines the existing Irish housing delivery system, with a comprehensive review of standards, testing, certification and accreditation. The report presents a concise literature review to draw insights from similar standards, testing, certification and accreditation systems in the United Kingdom (UK) and Europe. Additionally, interviews of construction professionals are undertaken to understand perspectives of industry on the current Irish system of standards, testing and certification. The methodology employed comprises extensive desktop research combined with semi-structured interviews of a cross-section of the construction sector. The aim is to gain a comprehensive understanding of the current situation and identify potential obstacles in the system of standards, testing, certification and accreditation that could be impeding the more efficient delivery of housing in Ireland. The findings highlight challenges embedded within the existing system. In Ireland, the key components of the construction of housing related to standards, testing and certification include; building regulations, building control regulations, technical guidance documents, national standards, European design/material/product standards, execution standards, testing standards, certification and accreditation, as well as construction product regulations. When adopting a novel or innovative construction product, material, or system, NSAI Agrément emerges as the most practical avenue for demonstrating compliance with Irish Building Regulations, especially in the absence of established national standards or harmonized European standards. During semi-structured interviews, several recurring challenges emerged, including a lack of understanding of the Agrément process and a lack of clear guidance. In response to these challenges, the report presents potential recommendations aimed at streamlining the approach to Building Regulation compliance for novel or innovative housing construction products. By comparing extensive research, semi-structured interviews with a cross-section of the construction sector, and comparative analysis, this report serves as a valuable resource for policymakers, industry professionals and stakeholders involved in the housing construction sector.