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Latest news and information from our clients. Click on the thumbnails to access high-resolution images (right-click to download).TRaC and BSI: new agreement launches unique Test/Certification partnership - (20-Jul-10)
- Industry: Test
- Client: TRaC - www.tracglobal.com
BSI selects TRaC as Test Partner for ATEX equipment approvals programme
Key Facts:
• Two of the biggest names in test and certification agree to work together
• TRaC builds on its ATEX/IECEx explosive-atmosphere test experience
• Co-operation maximises international market coverage with single point-of-contact
TRaC, a leading provider of test and certification services, has announced that it is to collaborate with BSI in offering an approvals programme for equipment designed to operate in explosive atmospheres. Together, the two companies have a depth of expertise, and global reach, that is unrivalled in the field. TRaC CEO Mark Heaven comments, “This agreement represents a major step forward in terms of the support we can offer the industry, and for TRaC itself. We are delighted that BSI, with its global reputation in certification services, has selected TRaC as its Test Partner in this demanding industry sector.”
TRaC is accredited by UKAS (United Kingdom Accreditation Service) as an ATEX test laboratory. The company’s facilities are also qualified under IECEx, an internationally-recognised Conformity Assessment System that runs under the auspices of the IEC, defining safe operating parameters for equipment that will be used in any location (known as “Ex Areas”) where there is risk of fire or explosion. TRaC’s services help manufacturers to simplify and speed up the process of preparing their products for international markets. Once a product has been certified as IECEx-compliant, it is recorded on a central database and can then be sold in over 30 countries worldwide.
The British Standards Institution, BSI, offers a range of services in the field of certification for hazardous-area operation. It is a Notified Body for the EU ATEX Directive 94/9/EC; compliance to that Directive is mandatory in the EU for any equipment intended for operation in explosive atmospheres. BSI offers its clients design advice for products to ensure that they are ready for full assessment, type testing, certification, and storage of the technical files that hold all of the data used to substantiate conformity claims.
Closer co-operation between TRaC and BSI means an even more responsive and comprehensive service. With TRaC focussing on the testing aspects of the approvals process, and BSI majoring on certification, the combined offering of both bodies will mean that clients will have the highest possible level of support at every stage of their product development, from design through to release to market. The combined international reach and expertise of both companies is unparalleled in the industry, allowing products to be prepared for the widest range of markets worldwide, in the shortest possible time.
Ken Coveney, Managing Director of BSI Testing Services adds “This is a real step forward in the provision of speedy and responsive services in the ATEX testing and certification field. We fully anticipate that this collaboration will bring significant and long lasting benefits to manufacturers as well as site operatives.”
About BSI Group
BSI Group is a global independent business services organization that inspires confidence and delivers assurance to over 80,000 customers with standards-based solutions. Originating as the world’s first national standards body, BSI has over 2,500 staff operating in over 140 countries through more than 50 global offices. BSI’s key offerings are:
• The development and sale of private, national and international standards and Supporting information that promote and share best practice
• Second and third-party management systems assessment and certification in all critical areas of management disciplines
• Testing and certification of services and products for Kitemark® and CE marking to UK, European and international standards. BSI is a Notified Body for 15 New Approach EU Directives.
• Certification of high-risk, complex medical devices
• Performance management software solutions
• Supply chain security solutions which identify and mitigate risks in supply chains
• Training services in support of standards implementation and business best practice.
BSI and Kitemark® were both voted UK Business Superbrands in 2010, by independent brand experts.
For further information please visit www.bsigroup.com or www.Kitemark.com
About TRaC
TRaC is a leading test group with accreditations for all major markets worldwide. It has established itself with a reputation for unrivalled excellence in global approvals, testing and certification.
TRaC provides the assessment route to product manufacturers and designers to ensure they fulfil their legal obligations and demonstrate full compliance with the requirements of countries around the world. For more information, visit www.tracglobal.com
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For further information, please contact:
Bally Wadalia, TRaC
Tel: +44 (0) 1926 478478
Email: Bally.Wadalia@tracglobal.com
Debbie Norton, Napier
Tel: +44 (0) 1243 531123
Email: Debbie@Napier.co.uk
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