SKG-IKOB reveals invisible risks at glass installation companies
For SKG-IKOB, a nice development took place in 2021. Together with Bouwend Nederland Vakgroep GLAS has worked on drawing up quality requirements for the installation of glass for companies such as glaziers, glass manufacturers and glass dealers. The inspections are carried out by SKG-IKOB on the building site and based on the results of these inspections, Vakgroep GLAS issues the Glaskeur seal of approval. To ensure that the basic working methods of the companies are in order, SKG-IKOB subjects companies with Glaskeur to an objective independent inspection twice a year. An examination for which no preparation is possible.
Invisible
In the construction industry, it is important to meet labels and general quality standards. Yet the assessment of glaziers was often left out of the picture. While with glass, the risks are often invisible. For example, a pane of glass may be fine on sight, but is it also injury resistant? Or is it where it is mandatory to install safety glass? Until recently, this was looked at less critically and it was assumed on the word of a glazier that everything was fine.
Quality requirements
SKG-IKOB plays an important role in this and thought about the quality requirements for Glaskeur. The technical committee included all kinds of parties with different interests. From an independent position we were able to advise on a balanced package of requirements. A combination of legal requirements from, for example, the Building Decree and non-statutory requirements from, for example, NEN and NPR standards. The most important thing was that with the requirements we bring the industry to a sound quality level and at the same time make Glaskeur accessible for large and small companies. A level playing field is created for everyone by not setting requirements that require large investments.
Checks
SKG-IKOB checks companies before issuing the seal of approval and twice a year thereafter. This is done under circumstances that cannot be predicted or manipulated. During a local inspection of, for example, a glass repair company, an inspector from SKG-IKOB goes along to any damage. It is not clear in advance what will be found and, as a result, no preparation is possible. It is checked whether all safety regulations are followed, the correct type of glass is used and whether the installation of the glass was carried out in the correct manner. The findings are reported to Bouwend Nederland Vakgroep GLAS and they determine what measures (where necessary) will be taken.
Future-proof label
Glaskeur provides a good basis for a quality-conscious glass industry. Because legislation changes and new insights lead to new standards and requirements, it is important to look ahead. To remain of value as a hallmark, further development is needed. Within the technical committee, the industry, the GLAS professional group and SKG-IKOB continue to meet to discuss developments from all disciplines and to implement any changes in the quality requirements. In this way we are working on a future-proof hallmark.
Learn more
Would you also like to apply for the seal of approval or would you like more information about the GlasKeur? Then contact the secretariat of Vakgroep GLAS atÂ
