August 2000

BS EN 877 SETS NEW INDUSTRY STANDARDS IN EUROPE

The new BS EN 877 standard has now been officially introduced to the cast iron industry, providing a harmonised point of reference for countries throughout Europe.

Developing the standard has ensured the evolution of cast iron as a modern, lightweight, easy to install drainage system material, and one that is now more cost-effective than ever.

BS EN 877 sets the industry recognised standard for cast iron pipework components used for the construction of discharge systems for buildings and drains, normally as gravity systems.

Differing to the current applicable British standards BS 416/BS 437, which focus on the dimensional and material requirements of individual products and components, the new standard emphasises the performance requirements of the system. These include materials, dimensions, tolerances and mechanical properties as well as appearance and standard coatings performance for all components.

A spokesperson for The Cast Iron Drainage Authority (CIDDA) said:

"The introduction of the new standard is a positive move forward for the industry. The Authority believes BS EN877 will bring international market opportunities for UK specifiers and contractors using cast iron drainage systems, who will be able to purchase systems from trusted UK suppliers and manufacturers, as well as work in European markets without the barriers of local product standards."

"Dramatic changes are unlikely. UK manufacturers have been supplying soil and drain systems to the requirements of the new standard for many years, supported by BBA third party accreditation," they continued.

Current cast iron systems, which have been manufactured to BS 416 and BS 437 standards, will continue to be supported by British standards and will run alongside the BS EN 877 for some considerable time in the future.