European Technical Assessment
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What is a European Technical Assessment?
The European Technical Assessment, known by its acronym ETA, has become an essential pillar for introducing and consolidating innovative construction products in the European market. This assessment is much more than a simple administrative procedure; it is a technical guarantee that ensures a product meets the appropriate controls, providing reliability and safety to the market.
The Construction Products Regulation defines an ETA as "the documented assessment of the performance of a construction product in relation to its essential characteristics, in accordance with the respective European Assessment Document." In other words, each ETA is unique and specifically tailored to the characteristics and uses of the product being assessed.
The drafting of an ETA is based on its corresponding European Assessment Document (EAD), which provides the technical guidelines for the assessment and control of the product. According to the current CPR, the EAD is considered a harmonised technical specification (hTS). This means that products assessed under these criteria meet uniform standards at the European level, thus facilitating their acceptance and use in countries within the European Union.
What does having an ETA entail?
The ETA of a product is the document with which the manufacturer assumes responsibility to the market for the technical performance of their product for the intended uses. This agreement of control and responsibility over the product is assumed by the holder of the ETA to the market and the public administration, highlighting the importance of the accuracy and truthfulness of the information provided.
Another way to view an ETA is as a European passport for innovative construction products. It allows manufacturers to introduce innovative products to the European market with the certainty that they have been rigorously assessed and meet the basic requirements for construction work established by the European Union. This process is fundamental to ensuring the acceptance and success of new products in a competitive and regulated market. Having an ETA facilitates market entry and sends a strong message of safety and commitment to all stakeholders, including customers, suppliers, and regulatory authorities.
However, it's a common mistake among some manufacturers to confuse the ETA with a simple administrative process. Obtaining an ETA involves a thorough technical evaluation and assessment that go far beyond bureaucratic procedures. This misunderstanding can lead to serious consequences, as an inadequate assessment may result in a product performance declaration that does not correspond to reality, for example, by indicating mechanical strength and stability or even safety performance in case of fires greater than the actual ones, thus compromising people's safety.
How to obtain a good ETA?
Correctly defining the scope of an ETA is fundamental. An imprecise or unclear definition could lead the manufacturer or ETA holder to assume responsibilities that do not belong to them, exposing them to unnecessary risks. The evaluation must be as precise and detailed as possible, ensuring that all product characteristics and uses are clearly specified and assessed.
An ETA is developed and issued by a Technical Assessment Body (TAB), a public or private entity authorized by the authorities of the member states to carry out the evaluation tasks of construction products. Choosing a Technical Assessment Body to issue an ETA is not a trivial decision. Not all TABs are notified to issue any ETA, nor do they all possess the experience and knowledge necessary to conduct a proper evaluation. Selecting the right TAB is decisive to ensure that the technical assessment is accurate, and that the ETA faithfully reflects the capabilities and limitations of the product without harming the ETA holder.
In summary, the European Technical Assessment (ETA) is an indispensable tool for introducing innovative construction products into the European market. More than just an administrative document, the ETA represents the manufacturer's commitment to reliability, safety, and responsibility. Rigorous technical evaluation and the appropriate choice of the TAB are key elements to ensure that the ETA is a true passport to success in the European market.