abZ (general building authority approval)
A guide for builders and manufacturers
The general building approval (abZ) plays a decisive role in the German construction industry. It is issued by the German Institute for Building Technology (DIBt) and ensures that construction products that are not covered by harmonized standards or European technical assessments are nevertheless safe and fit for use. The abZ tests the suitability and safety of construction products and processes that deviate from the usual standards. It serves as a central instrument for the market approval of such products in Germany.
What is a general building approval (abZ)?
A general building approval, abbreviated as abZ, is an official approval that is required for the use of innovative building products and construction methods. These products or processes often do not comply with established technical regulations or standards, which is why a separate approval is required. The aim of the abZ is to ensure the safety, suitability for use and environmental compatibility of construction products before they can be used on the market.
Importance of the general building authority approval in the construction industry
In the construction industry, the general technical approval is always relevant when a construction product or a construction method is not covered by European Technical Assessments (ETA) or harmonized standards. This often concerns new or innovative products that are not yet covered by the regulations, but are nevertheless to be used safely and efficiently in construction projects. This is where the abZ comes into play by carrying out a comprehensive safety assessment by the Deutsches Institut für Bautechnik.
For manufacturers and building owners, the general building approval (abZ) is an important factor that guarantees the safe use of a product in construction practice. It cannot be used without such approval. The approval strengthens legal certainty and gives planners and contractors the assurance that the product complies with the essential building regulations. It also facilitates market access, which is particularly important for manufacturers of innovative construction products.
Legal framework conditions for general building approval (abZ)
In Germany, general building approval is regulated by various laws and regulations. The central basis is the Model Building Code (MBO) and the building regulations of the federal states. These legal frameworks stipulate that construction products that are not covered by harmonized standards or European technical assessments require an abZ in order to be approved on the market.
Manufacturers who develop products that deviate from existing standards must submit an application for approval to the Deutsches Institut für Bautechnik. This involves comprehensive testing of the construction product, which not only examines safety, but also suitability for use and environmental compatibility.
The process of general building approval
In order to obtain a general building approval (abZ), manufacturers must submit a detailed application to the DIBt. This application must contain all the technical details of the product, including design, material properties and intended use. The DIBt then carries out a comprehensive examination, in which external expert opinions and tests from accredited institutes are taken into consideration.
Testing can take different lengths of time depending on the product, as safety, health and environmental aspects must be taken into account in addition to technical factors. As soon as the product has received the abZ, it may be used in construction projects that fall outside the harmonized standards.
Advantages of general building approval for manufacturers
For manufacturers of innovative building products, general building approval is of enormous importance. It not only offers the advantage that the product can be placed on the market in Germany, but also:
- Legal security: With a valid general building authority approval (abZ), manufacturers are on the safe side and can sell their products without any legal concerns.
- Confidence-building: An abZ signals to clients, planners and building contractors that the product has been extensively tested and meets the highest safety standards.
- Competitive advantage: As the approval confirms that the product has special properties that set it apart from others, this can be used as a marketing advantage.
- Market access: The general building approval (abZ) opens up access to the German construction market, which is an important sales market for many manufacturers.
The role of the German Institute for Building Technology (DIBt)
The Deutsches Institut für Bautechnik is the central testing and approval body for construction products and construction methods in Germany. It is responsible for issuing the general building authority approval and ensures that only products that meet the strict requirements are approved.
The DIBt works closely with accredited testing institutes that carry out the necessary material tests and safety tests. These external tests are an essential part of the approval process and ensure that the product meets the requirements of the German building regulations.
Conclusion: The abZ as a seal of quality
The general building approval is an indispensable instrument for the quality assurance and safety of construction products in Germany. It not only strengthens legal certainty, but also gives manufacturers a decisive market advantage. Building owners and planners can rely on the fact that abZ-approved products meet the high requirements of the German construction industry and can be used in any construction project without hesitation.
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