|
|
|
News MAY 2024
Construction Products Europe submitted its members’ comments and will share the latest news with them. More so, together with the European Commission, the Group of Notified Bodies will organise a conference on the revised Construction Products Regulation (CPR), meanwhile approved by the European Parliament on 10th April that will be held in Brussels on 22nd October, followed by the 2nd semester meeting from GNB-AG. CERTIF, as the representative of the Portuguese Notified Bodies has participated in the meeting.
APR 2024
The certificate issued covers the Carrying out and maintenance of installations for the use of electrical energy, installations of security systems and intelligent management systems. Carrying out and maintenance of electrical energy distribution networks in low and medium voltage, public lighting, sectioning and transformation stations, low voltage works. Provision of technical assistance services and ITED certification. Carrying out and maintenance of HVAC system installations. Provision of installation, repair, maintenance or technical assistance and dismantling services for fixed refrigeration, air conditioning and heat pump equipment contain fluorinated greenhouse gases. Building rehabilitation. Ivo Ribeiro, S.A. is a company with an extensive experience in the sector where operates, and intends with this certification demonstrates its commitment to providing a quality service to its customers.
In Portugal, it is the APQ - Portuguese Association for Quality that promotes the celebration of this date, with the European Quality Congress taking place on the 9th and 10th November, which brings together several hundred participants from all over the world and which CERTIF joined as a sponsor. At an international level, the CQI (Chartered Quality Institute) started to promote Quality Week, an initiative followed by many organizations in several countries. This year the theme of the Week is “Quality: realizing your competitive potential”.
World Standards Day is about our shared vision for a better world. The message from the presidents of IEC, ISO and ITU and the website of the words standard day can be reached here. https://www.iso.org/world-standards-day.html
MAY 2023
MAY 2023
This Association of European Certification Bodies, where several stakeholders are represented like Lighting Europe, Europacable, CEN/CENELEC, EA – European Accreditation, CECAPI, TIC Council and IECEE amongst others, is responsible for the strategic and operational management of the European mutual recognition, within the scope of the certification of electrical equipment, including the ENEC and HAR European common marks. After the pandemic period, in which it was necessary to carry out a series of assessment activities remotely, this option is no longer possible. A multilateral agreement for the factory inspections to manufacturers, known as the CIG Inspection Scheme, was concluded. This Agreement establishes harmonized requirements for its performance, including criteria for the qualification of factory inspectors, and allows each Certification Body to issue a certificate, related to the audit it carried out. This certificate and the corresponding factory inspection report are accepted by other members, or even by other Certification Bodies, in order to allow obtaining the various conformity marks. Efforts and initiatives are maintained by the members to ensure the credibility and trust of European certifications. In this context, the number of products certified with the ENEC Mark increased to over 16,800, which, in practice, represents several million certified products to be sold and installed all over the world. All these certified products, which also include electrical cables with the HAR Mark, mean that they are safe and that they comply with the functions for which they were designed. These certifications provide users, consumers and authorities with an additional level of confidence, which would not be fully possible without the cooperation and work carried out by the European Certification Bodies.
APR 2023
CERTIF – Portuguese Association for Certification is, once again, one of the sponsors of the Congress Now the time is coming for all the quality community to join together again, in Porto/Gaia, to celebrate quality in person (or online), learn and share how going back to quality may be the best way to face many of the challenges and risks that we are also facing. More information in the web site of the congress https://eoqcongress2023.apq.pt/
APR 2023
At the moment, the proposal for the revision of this regulation is under negotiation, in the context of the Swedish Presidency of the Council of the European Union. The revision of the regulation will be the result of a long process of discussion and consultation promoted by the European Commission, and will play a role in the European Green Deal and Action Plan for the Circular Economy, and in the subsequent sustainable performance of construction products.
APR 2023
Ferromar is another company from Indústrias de Fernando Teixeira, S.A. a group that chooses CERTIF as a certification body, in this case for its QMS. CERTIF develops activities with this group of industries since the year 2000, namely with FERPINTA.
JAN 2023
Alpi, is a CERTIF customer since 2006 within the scope of the Certification of Container Weighing Process in accordance with the method 2 – Solas Convention, has now extended the range of certifications with CERTIF. The certification now obtained, includes the company's headquarters in Touguinhó and two other places where ALPI develops its activity: Mealhada and Cacém.
SEP 2022
Based on this agreement, BBA accepts the audits carried out by CERTIF to control factory production. VALBOPAN, in addition to the CE marking, thus also accesses the UKCA marking, being able to export to the United Kingdom. From 1 January 2023, manufacturers looking to place products on the UK market will need a UK Conformity Assessment Marking (UKCA) instead of the CE Marking.
AUG 2022
In addition to the company O Feliz Painel, also the company Feliz – Metalomecânica is a client of CERTIF under CE marking of its “Steel Lighting Columns”.
AUG 2022
Brexit brought, as one of the consequences, from 1 January 2023, the non-recognition in Great Britain of the CE marking (Northern Ireland has different rules), making the UKCA marking mandatory. CERTIF, as a measure to support its clients who export to these markets has established this recognition agreement with CARES Steel Certification, one of the most internationally recognized certification bodies in the area of steel. Therefore audits performed by CERTIF will be accepted by CARES, with costs that only concern the monitoring and analysis of the technical documentation. On the other hand, CERTIF can accept audits performed by CARES so that their clients may access the CE marking. This agreement follows other already established with the BBA for other type of products.
JAN 2022
The representative of the European Commission was present at this meeting, who informed that a proposal for the revision of Regulation (EU) No. 305/2011 is expected to be made available on the 30th of March. The revision of the regulation will be the result of a long process of discussion and consultation promoted by the European Commission, and will play a role in the European Green Deal and Action Plan for the Circular Economy, and in the subsequent sustainable performance of construction products.
JAN 2022
World Standards Day 2021 is about “our shared vision for a better world”. The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which project to address social imbalances, develop a sustainable economy, and slow the rate of climate change will require the cooperation of many public and private partners, and the use of all available tools, including international standards and conformity assessment activities. More information about the Day can be reached in:
JUN 2021
CERTIF makes its contribution through CE marking and product certification for various equipment that can help fight fires. It is always important to remember that CERTIF is a Notified Body for European standards, such as EN 671-1:2012 for hose systems with semi-rigid hoses, as well as for standard EN 671-2:2012 for hose systems with lay-flat hoses. CERTIF is also accredited to issue certificates for pilar fire hydrants in accordance with EN 14384:2005, underground fire hydrants in accordance with EN 14339:2005, and for the EN 54 series of standards which includes the following products: fire panels, sounders, manual call points, heat and smoke detectors, short-circuit isolators and visual alarm devices. In addition to the products mentioned above, CERTIF also works on the certification of fire extinguisher maintenance service in accordance with NP 4413:2019, a mandatory standard for companies that carry out fire extinguisher maintenance activities. CERTIF, with several certificates issued in these scopes, has 20 years of experience in this area.
JUN 2021
JUN 2021
Solarkeymark is a European conformity mark attributed by a group of qualified certification bodies which CERTIF integrates. With this conformity mark, manufacturers can demonstrate that their collector or solar thermal system complies with the applicable European standards, as well as with the additional requirements of the mark.
MAY 2021
Hou Ta Electric Cords & Plugs Co., Ltd. is a manufacturer with more than 30 years of experience in Taiwan holding over 30 international safety approvals and with its quality management system certified according to ISO 9001:2015.
MAY 2021
Reinforcing the importance of the credibility and trust of European certifications and the increase in the number of certified products make possible to place safer products on the market complying with the performance for which they were designed.
MAR 2021
The tests for rating the performance and calculating the heating energy efficiency of heat pumps will be performed at Itecons - Instituto de Investigação e Desenvolvimento Tecnológico para a Construção, Energia, Ambiente e Sustentabilidade, which is a laboratory located in Coimbra, a city in the central region of Portugal. The Heat Pump KEYMARK is a voluntary and independent European certification mark applicable to the energy efficiency of heat pumps which is in-line with the specified criteria for a Type 5 certification scheme as defined by ISO - International Organization for Standardization. This implies that initial testing and annual re-testing are applicable and a regular factory production control and check of the related quality management system are carried out. The Heat Pump KEYMARK certification scheme has taken in consideration the Ecodesign requirements of the EU Regulations 813/2013 and 814/2013. It may be considered that a Heat Pump KEYMARK Certificate issued by CERTIF represents a passport for placing heat pumps on the European market. Additional information about this certification scheme is available at www.heatpumpkeymark.com.
MAR 2021
In this audit, the company based in Chaves has already made the transition to the new version of ISO 22000: 2018, thus ensuring compliance with the new regulatory requirements and providing evidence that, even in the times we live in, it maintains its policy of supplying safe products, keeping in mind the safety of the food supplied and its customers.
DEC 2020
Sonae Arauco España is one of the manufacturing units of the Sonae Arauco Group, which also includes Sonae Arauco Portugal, having also the CE marking for the same products. The Sonae Arauco Group, one of the main national manufacturers of Wood-Based Panels, now offers the possibility of marketing these products within Iberian Peninsula.
Quality supports business to develop a customer-centered culture, what will allow recognizing that it is the customer and not the company that defines what quality means which must therefore be understood through the eyes of their customers. More information here www.quality.org/wqd20
This year theme is “Protecting the planet with standards”, and, in a moment we face a negative impact on the climate, international standards lay down protocols and methods of measurement, elaborated by experts, and covering aspects like energy savings, water and air quality which can be relevant to share knowledge and to a better application of resources . More information about the Day can be reached here
AUG 2020
The certificates issued according to the new edition of NP 4413 include the registration of the mobile workshops of the extinguisher maintenance companies. CERTIF issued the first certificate for NP 4413: 2019, for the company PRINCIPIUS DIVERSUS that has also its quality management system certified by CERTIF by the standard NP EN ISO 9001: 2015.
JUN 2020
The join statement of both IAF and ILAC Presidents emphasizes the importance of accreditation in food safety, noting how it it ensures competent and impartial inspection, certification and testing services in every part of local, national and international food chains. More information about the World Accreditation Day and the access to the brochure, video and the complete joint statement can be reached here: https://ilac.org/news-and-events/world-accreditation-day-2020-2/
ETICS is developing agreements with Certification Bodies from non-European countries regarding the recognition of factory inspections performed by its members based on this report. IRAM in Argentina already recognized this factory inspection report. The manufacturers that pretend to export to this country can obtain IRAM’s Certification Mark with factory inspections performed by CERTIF, with a significant cost reduction.
JAN 2020
DEZ 2019
DEZ 2019
In that way, it is possible to dimension the traffic panel with a structural performance appropriate to the type of wind to which it will be subjected. To obtain this approval, due to the size of the panels to be approved, it was decided to perform mathematical calculations through software developed at INEGI - Institute of Science and Innovation in Mechanical Engineering and Industrial Engineering. Annually, it is necessary for the companies to demonstrate through an annual audit conducted by CERTIF, that the manufacture the products are in accordance with the test report issued by INEGI. SNSV - National Vertical Signaling Society Lda, headquartered in the Camporese Industrial Zone, Chão de Couce, Leiria, was the first company in Portugal to obtain this evaluation.
OCT 2019
CERTIF will follow all this evolution, either directly or through its local partners, to better support its clients wishing to export to Brazil, being available to provide the requested information.
SET 2019
The new database will provide the same information currently available and will benefit information sharing, through links to it. In practice, this new database will allow to the user of this site, to use the data contained in the technical data sheets, sending it directly to their calculation tools.
SET 2019
The certificate issued covers wholesale of primary, finishes and similar products used in protective paint systems in industry. Four Paints was born in 2011 with a team with wide knowledge in the technical and commercial areas of anticorrosive paints and primers used in the metalworking industry.
JUL 2019
Having started its activity by products certification soon extended it to services and processes and after that, by clients demand, to management systems certification. Member of European and International Agreements and with several Recognition Agreements established, CERTIF has supported the efforts of many of its clients in their projects of internationalization and products exportation, reinforcing its leading position in products certification. Based on technical rigor and full respect for the principles of integrity and independence, CERTIF has always shown the credibility of its work, which has enabled it to maintain the trust of its customers and those who, by acquiring certified products and services rely on the evaluation of CERTIF. So, our words of thanks: Thank you for your trust!
JUN 2019
The certificate issued has the scope of design, development, manufacture, supply and assembly of steel structures. Entreferros Serralharia e Construções Metálicas, Lda. is an extensive experience company in the sector where it operates, which intends to demonstrate with this certification, its concerns with the quality of their products and also showing that complies with all requirements.
JUN 2019
The motivation for this theme is the fact that 80% of trade involves conformity assessment activities and the accreditation of certification and inspection bodies and laboratories ensures their impartiality, competence and consistency, and plays an important role in reducing the costs of trade and making more transparent to do business. More information about the World Accreditation Day and the access to the brochure, video and the complete joint statement can be reached here.
JUN 2019
JUN 2019
APR 2019
The process was conducted by CERTIF with the consequent registration in the DAPHabitat System. The registration of Environmental Product Declarations in the DAPHabitat System, managed by the Associação Plataforma para a Construção Sustentável, allows the recognition of ECO Platform, an international non-profit association established by European Environmental Product Declarations program operators in the construction sector, among which is the Portuguese registration program - DAPHabitat System.
APR 2019
The registration of Environmental Product Declarations in the DAPHabitat System, the Portuguese DAP registration system specific to habitat products, is managed by the Associação Plataforma para a Construção Sustentável. On www.daphabitat.pt you can access all EPD currently registered.
APR 2019
The work involved the recognition of a new associate, the discussion and approval of the annual report and accounts for 2018 and the information given about the ongoing projects, with particular emphasis on the management actions and promotion of the Sustainable Cluster Habitat activity. In this context, following the General Assembly, the planned actions to create new opportunities for partnership and project based on the priorities of the Platform's action plan were discussed.
MAR 2019
The participation in the Congress, which has CERTIF as one of its sponsors, is the opportunity to discuss with quality professionals from different countries what quality means today to different kind of organizations and different sectors. More information and registration in the Congress here https://eoqcongress2019.apq.pt/
FEB 2019
CERTIF, the certification body (CB) with the code 04, is the only Portuguese certification body signatory of this European agreement that grants ENEC in accordance with European standards (ENs) taking in consideration the principles specified in the scheme no. 5 of ISO / IEC 17067. ENEC Mark granted by CERTIF has the same worth and validity in all countries whose CBs are signatories of this European certification agreement and allows the manufacturer to demonstrate the quality of their products in several markets with test and audit reports issued by CERTIF. Initially, for lighting equipment and its components, the ENEC Mark has been extended to other electrical equipments with a greater visibility among European users and consumers. In Portugal ENEC Mark has the recognition of EDP Distribuição for the placement of products in the network of Public Lighting.
JAN 2019
Several occupational health and safety issues were addressed, such as: Occupational Safety and Hygiene, New Carcinogenic Agents Directive, Electromagnetic fields, ISO 45001: 2018 - Difficulties and Challenges of Companies and the Digitization of Work- The challenges to occupational safety. CERTIF contributed to the panel related to ISO 45001: 2018, in which was explained the certification process for occupational health and safety management systems, as well as the main innovations that this standard has brought.
JAN 2019
The power stations and the dam are included on the Alto Tâmega Hydroelectric Complex, which comprises Gouvães, Alto Tâmega and Daivões undertakings, working together, considered the largest project of its kind in the Iberian Peninsula to have been carried out in the last 25 years.
JAN 2019
In this congress, under the theme "How to build tomorrow?" current solutions from cluster members were presented and discussed in three panels such as "Territories and Sustainable Cities", "Digital Transformation" and "Circular Economy". Other solutions were also presented in digital format throughout the congress. The debate and the interaction between speakers and the participants were privileged during the congress, and there was also a space for networking among the participants, used to foster opportunities and partnerships.
DEC 2018
The manufacturers with CE Marking in this field are forced to assure a FPC-Factory Production Control in accordance with the requirements of the harmonized standard EN 1090-1: 2009 + A1: 2011 and technical requirements laid down in EN 1090-2 for steel and EN 1090-3 for aluminium.
Companies that develop construction projects are also evaluated for the design process.
With a very interesting program the reference to two round tables, one concerning Industry 4.0, which addressed issues related to the increasing diversity and quantity of data that is produced from a variety of sources in our lives, which confers to the concept of Big Data a relevant importance. The second round table discussed issues related to the future of quality, with interventions from l managers and technicians from different sectors, which allowed a wide discussion and highlighted different points of view. It was announced that next year there will be no Congress, since APQ will organize in Lisbon the EOQ Congress - European Organization for Quality, which will happen together with the 50th anniversary of the Association.
This year theme is “International Standards and the Fourth Industrial Revolution”, and, in a moment when robots , artificial intelligence and additive manufacturing , as many others, are changing the way we make goods, and taking over more and more tasks previously done by humans, to take advantage of the full potential of the Fourth Industrial Revolution for the betterment of society, standards are needed. More information about the Day can be reached here https://www.worldstandardscooperation.org/world-standards-day/
SEP 2018
In some countries where an ETICS member does not exist, these factory inspections are accepted, what allows the manufacturers to obtain the certification marks in these countries more feasibly. It was found that the application of the rule to perform a special factory inspection when either the manufacturer changes their location, or makes an extension of the production line, or adds new production lines, or promotes any other important change, with direct impact on the certified products, has not being applied in a systematic way. So, it was advised that all Certification Bodies shall follow this procedure. In conclusion, it was found a good progress in the harmonization of the factory inspection procedures among all Certification Bodies, what brings clear benefits for the manufacturers that intend to put on the market their certified products.
AUG 2018
Concerning the standards for testing, the last versions of EN ISO 9806: 2017 and EN 12976-2: 2017, were approved in 2017, and are in implementation. In relation to EN ISO 9806: 2017, the most relevant changes are related the possibility to test all collector types within the market (CPC, vacuum tubes or hybrids), in terms of thermal characterization and in terms of reliability, and using different types of heat transfer fluid (water, air or oil). .
JUL 2018
The objective was to define the specific requirements for ceramic tableware, taking into account the functional specificities of the product (flame, oven and table), the specificities of the material (porcelain, stoneware, earthenware and terracotta), applicable international standards and the technical level of national industry. The standard developed and published in the meantime, NP 4555-1:2018, defines the requirements for ceramic tableware for domestic and hospitality use, and could be used as product certification basis. This example, among others, highlights the impact of standardisation as a strategic tool at the service of organizations, and allows the involvement of all stakeholders in the standardisation process.
JUN 2018
This year the chosen theme was “Delivering a Safer World”, calling the attention for the importance of safer aspects of our lives as universally shared. More information about the World Accreditation Day and access to the complete joint statement can be reached here http://www.iaf.nu/articles/
JUN 2018
The participation in this Agreement allows the recognition of test certificates in the scope of CB-Scheme, what allows an easier access to certifications in the countries members of the Agreement. In this meeting, where had been represented members from 40 different countries, from all the continents, a special attention has been done to new areas, like cibersecurity, and approved the revision of several internal rules. The participation in this meeting gives the possibility to establish bilateral contacts that allows an easier access to companies looking for other markets.
MAY 2018
CERTIF has been active for several years in the certification of products related to firefighting, such as hose systems and fire hydrants, and decided to extend its offer for this service. certificate was issued to the company The first certificate was issued to Principius Diversus - Unipessoal, Lda. that also certified with CERTIF its Quality Management System according to ISO 9001.
MAY 2018
With two manufacturing units, located in S. Pedro de Agostém (headquarters) and in Benavente, the Management System certification reflects the differentiated activities of the two sites, with the broader scope applicable to the company's headquarters, with a larger production capacity: “Production and commercialisation of insulating glass units, laminated glass, thermally toughened glass, heat strengthened glass and screen-printed glass. Manufactures on glass.” At the same time, Vitrochaves continues to focus on the quality of its products, having already obtained CERTIF’s Certified Product conformity mark for insulating glass units, for laminated glass, for thermally toughened glass and heat strengthened glass, certifications which complement each other for the company’s affirmation in the glass transformation market.
MAR 2018
This agreement makes possible the mutual recognition of test reports for electrical products based on international standards (IEC). In this agreement are represented 80 National Certification Bodies and members of 53 countries. CERTIF is, simultaneously, a National Member Body and a National Certification Body. It may be assumed that a CB Certificate issued by CERTIF works as a passport for placing electrical products on the international market. Further information about CERTIF and this international mutual recognition scheme for electrical products is available at http://www.certif.pt/aelectrica_ia_eng.asp
MAR 2018
The equipments tested by ISQ and certified by CERTIF are, by this way, allowed to be commercialized in important and exigent market of UAE. The list of the bodies approved in 2018 can be seen here.
DEC 2017
This standard specifies requirements for the food safety management system (FSMS) where an organization in the food chain needs to demonstrate its ability to control all hazards in order to ensure the supply of safe products. By certifying their FSMS, organizations demonstrate that they comply with regulatory and statutory requirements, improve customer satisfaction, transmit greater confidence to consumers, enhancing their image on the market, and communicate effectively to all interest parties the concerns to food safety. The certification of a food safety management system is the assurance given by an independent and impartial body that companies comply with all legal requirements, wanting to go beyond them, undergoing annual audits where all their processes are evaluated. Mestre Alimentar, Lda. And AgroAguiar, S.A. are some of the companies that have a certified food safety management system, thus assuring the availability of safe food to their clients.
DEC 2017
The certificate now issued has the scope of Services provided by the Customer Service The City Council of Góis is, thus, committed to provide a quality service to its citizens, betting on the certification of its quality management system, proving the guarantee of the availableness of a differentiating service.
NOV 2017
To obtain this approval, the road stud performed laboratory tests to verify the retroreflection level and color, before and after being placed during one year on the high-way A23 - Beira Interior Highway, in Castelo Branco. After the laboratory confirmation, CERTIF performed an initial inspection of the manufacturing plant and of factory production control, to confirm that the quality system implemented ensure the production of road studs with the same characteristics as those tested. CERTIF will continue, on a yearly base, performing a continuous surveillance, assessment and evaluation of factory production control to confirm that the production of road markers maintains the same technical characteristics.
NOV 2017
For electrical products, in particular, are applicable Technical Regulations CU TR 004/2011 (regarding the safety of low-voltage equipment) and/or CU TR 020/2011 (referring to electromagnetic compatibility). For the evaluation of the conformity of the products, a Portuguese or European manufacturer can contact directly an Accredited Body entitled to provide certification according to the already mentioned Technical Regulations. However, alternatively, CERTIF - Associação para a Certificação, as the Portuguese Certification Body signatory of the ENEC Agreement, is able to certify electrical products with this European Certification Mark. The use of the ENEC Certification Mark allows a significant simplification of the evaluation of the conformity of the electrical products with the applicable technical requirements of the Custom Union. This is due to the existence of a Statement of Acceptance of ENEC Certification signed between the European Organization (now ETICS - European Testing Inspection Certification System) responsible for the management of this Certification Mark and a Belarus Certification Body (BELLIS Testing and Certification of Home Appliances and Industrial Products JSC). Through an administrative procedure, the Belarus Certification Body confers certification according to Custom Union Regulations of electrical products bearing ENEC Certification. For granting the certification, a technical examination of the ENEC Certification File is performed, which includes Test Reports and Factory Inspection Reports.
OCT 2017
This year theme is “Standards make cities smarter”, and it is interesting to refer the work made by ISO/TC 238 - Sustainable cities and communities, with 4 standards published and 6 under development.
AUG 2017
JUN 2017
For this year the chosen theme was “Delivering Confidance in construction and the build environment”. Standards and conformity assessment bodies can be an important support in a very complex and highly competitive sector, providing tools to improve efficiency, control risk and demonstrate regulatory compliance, and so providing confidence to all those who work in the processes. More information can be reached here
MAY 2017
The main objective of this certification is that manufacturers produce funeral urns in solid wood and with a certain level of quality, ensuring compliance with the requirements established by the technical specification, granting a production of ecological urns. Eight manufacturers have already adhered to this certification, integrated in the ECO Wood & Furniture project developed by AIMMP, and the first certifications with CNUF mark are near to be ready. A video explaining this certification scheme can be seen here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pcPWCpHhdCg
In 2016 more products have been recalled than last year, noting that more dangerous products notified are sold through on-line platforms. In 2016 had been sent 2044 notifications which gave place to 3824 follow up mesures. The products with a greater number of notifications were toys (26%), motor vehicles (18%), textiles and fashion (13%) and electrical appliances (7%), being the main risks injuries (25%) and chemical (23%). China was, once more, the origin country of the products with more notifications (53%), followed by Germany (6%) and United States (5%). Portugal has made 52 notifications, and products with origin in our country had been responsible for 5 notifications. The complete report can be reach here.
MAR 2017
In study a possible inclusion in IBM information concerning certified products.
MAR 2017
However, the way this energy consumption is managed, coupled with methodologies that promote sustainability, are fundamental, both in terms of energy resources and in economic and environmental terms. In order to better manage energy use, the NP EN ISO 50001 standard establishes requirements for efficient energy management, aiming at improving the energy efficiency associated with its activities, and consequently reducing costs in economic terms, further contributing to a deceleration of the greenhouse effect, with strong environmental impacts. CERTIF grants the certification of energy management systems according to ISO 50001 as well as for auditor for this standard in the categories Internal Auditor, Auditor and Coordinating Auditor.
MAR 2017
The Sustainable Habitat Cluster covers the whole habitat value chain which, from the beginning of 2009, covers building materials, construction and real estate sectors. The work developed by the Cluster in these 8 years has guaranteed its national and international recognition, having been awarded in 2015 with the European seal of excellence "Gold Label". This recognition is a sign of the Cluster excellence and has contributed to boost and internationalize the network that the Cluster aggregates as well as participate in a set of international networks.
JAN 2017
JAN 2017
This certification confirms the compliance of the management system implemented by the company with the requirements of the reference standard OHSAS 18001: 2007. The OHSMS is part of the company's Integrated Management System, complementing the existing Environmental Management System (EMS) and Quality Management System (QMS). As a result of the evaluation carried out, the company also achieved the renewal of the certification for these MS, confirming compliance with the requirements of the applicable standards, NP EN ISO 14001: 2012 and NP EN ISO 9001: 2015. Umbelino Monteiro, S.A. sees Security, Quality and Environment as key elements of the organization, essential for customer satisfaction and sustainable development. With the achieve of the brand CERTIF Certified Company, which is a result of voluntary certification processes, the company confirms once again that commitment.
JAN 2017
The Heat Pump KEYMARK Scheme is owned by the European Committee for Standardization (CEN). The European Heat Pump Association (EHPA) has been the main promoter of the development and implementation of this certification scheme. This certification scheme is voluntary, independent, based on third party testing and demonstrates compliance with product requirements as set in the Heat Pump KEYMARK Scheme Rules and the efficiency requirements of “Ecodesign” (Lot 1 and Lot 2) according to European Regulations EU/813/2013 and EU/814/2013. At the moment, products can be tested according to European Standards EN 14511 (Parts 1, 2, 3 and 4), EN 12309 (Parts 5 and 6), EN 16147, EN 14825 and EN 12102. It should be emphasized that the criteria specified for granting this European Certification Mark comply with ISO Type 5 requirements of Standard ISO/IEC 17067. This implies that the evaluation of the conformity of the products is supported by initial and annual surveillance tests and, also, initial and annual surveillance factory inspections. The certificates are granted by independent certification bodies, recognized within the certification scheme, to products fulfilling all the specified requirements. The tests are performed by laboratories, also recognized within the certification scheme. KEYMARK Scheme Rules specify the applicable criteria for the recognition of certification bodies and laboratories.
DEC 2016
These amendments, which being in force on 1 July 2016, oblige the shipper to verify the gross mass (VGM) of the container and to make it available on the transport documents using one of two methods:
DEC 2016
Considering the importance of the theme we let here the link to its résumé.
DEC 2016
The 1994 version of the standard that has been followed as reference will, then, be replaced at the end of March. CERTIF is prepared to actualize its certificates, what has been doing with its clients.
DEC 2016
CERTIF has established partnerships with– Agência para a Energia and CTCV – Centro Tecnológico da Cerâmica e do Vidro, to grant this certification in different professional categories. The partnership established with ADENE allows to get the certification for two different categories: Auditors ISO 50001 and Professionals working on energy sector. With CTCV, the possible categories for certification are: Auditor ISO 9001, Auditor ISO 14001 and Auditor NP 4397 – OHSAS 18001.
The certification request is made after the approval in the training given by the respective entity, and after the verification of the compliance with the established requirements for each category.
NOV 2016
This international event aims to promote synergies by gathering companies, municipalities, clusters, R&D units and other agents with a particular interest in the Built Environment Sustainability as a driving force for Innovation and Competitiveness. The 5th edition of this Congress (CINCOS’16) will take place in Lisbon (Portugal) from the 3rd to the 4th of November 2016 and its main theme is: NEW CHALLENGES FOR THE HABITAT VALUE CHAIN More information can be reached through the web site of CINCOS’16 o here
SET 2016
This group has the responsibility for defining and harmonizing the criteria for factory inspections of manufacturers of electrical equipment. These requirements shall be followed by all certification bodies associated in ETICS (ex-EEPCA). The work for the harmonized definition of routine and periodic verification tests are in course. These tests shall be performed by the manufacturers with certified products as part of the continuous monitoring of their manufacturing process. Also in course is the harmonized definition for qualification requirements of inspectors that perform the factory inspections in the scope of electrical equipment certification. New issues, that will be followed in future meetings:
JUL 2016
This process will serve both the Angolan economy, in a better qualification of its products, and Portuguese companies established in Angola that pretend to differentiate face to a lower competition.
JUL 2016
The MoU will facilitate contact and discussion on matters of common interest and will provide a framework for future co-operation. It will be reviewed at least every two years to ensure it is relevant and reflects developments in the sector. For both EUROPOL and ETICS, this is an important step forward to engage in cross-sector collaboration in the area of counterfeiting and inform each other on programmes of potential interest in order to identify possibilities for joint activities and mutual contribution.
Pierre de Ruvo, Secretary General & CEO ETICS, said: “This is an enormously positive development for ETICS, and we see this partnership as key in a number of strategic aspects to fight counterfeiting of consumer goods that impact health and safety of consumers.”
JUL 2016
Among others, had been discussed issues related to the harmonization of criteria concerning the performance of tests and considered proposals for amendment of the reference standards, under the electrical safety for illumination and its components. Another issue widely discussed was the adaptation of tests and certification to the constant evolution of the LED technology on the luminaires.
JUL 2016
After the classification process made by LNEC, and the test made in this laboratory CERTIF has audited the manufacturer production control, having decided the certification of steel bars. The official ceremony of granting the certificate had place in Luanda and was chaired by the Minister of Industry of Angola.
JUN 2016
The participation in this Agreement allows the recognition of test certificates in the scope of CB-Scheme, as well as audit reports, what allows an easier access to certifications in the countries members of the Agreement. In this meeting had been represented members from 42 different countries, from all the continents, what had given the possibility to establish bilateral contacts to an easier access to companies looking for other markets.
MAY 2016
Transformation and commercialization of single glass, thermally toughened glass and laminated glass, with different features and technical applications. Installation of glass in construction works in residential, industrial buildings, shopping areas and public buildings." This certification confirms the compliance of the management system implemented by the company with the requirements of the standard NP EN ISO 9001:2008. CERTIF has also proceeded with the evaluation of the product Air–filled organic sealed insulating glass unit (IGU) with hollow spacer, manufactured by the company with the trademark COVIGLASS. The product was subjected to laboratory tests, on an accredited laboratory, and the production process was audited. Once confirmed its compliance with the requirements of the product standard applicable, EN 1279-5:2005+A2:2010, certification was granted, which allows the company to use with this product the brand CERTIF Certified Product. These are voluntary certification processes thus, obtaining the brands CERTIF Certified Company and CERTIF Certified Product just confirms the commitment of M.M. & P.- Comércio e Transformação de Vidro, Lda. in ensuring the effectiveness of its operation, a continuous improvement, and the quality of the products and services provided to its customers.
MAY 2016
In this way, these products ensure compliance with European standards, and can be commercialized in all European Union countries. To obtain the corresponding certificates, all products have been subjected to laboratory tests in accredited laboratories in samples randomly selected by CERTIF elements, and the factory production was also audited.
APR 2016
CERTIF gives one more step in the cooperation that id developing with entities in Cape Vert in order to create condition to the certification of local products and its valoration.
APR 2016
ETICS (European Testing Inspection Certification System) is the new association that replaces EEPCA and remains with the responsibility by strategic and operational management of the European mutual recognition agreements, in the scope of electrical products certification, including the common European conformity marks ENEC and HAR. The ETICS’ strategic vision is based in a concept referred as Modern Compliance Scheme and its main goals are:
In this context it was decided to extend the scope of the ENEC mark to all product categories. In addition it was confirmed to allow the acceptance of the tests carried out in laboratories outside Europe for lighting equipment. On the other hand it is intended that ENEC certification may open to new areas like as energy efficiency, electric vehicles, hazardous substances, photovoltaics and ecodesign. The development of recognition agreements for ENEC certificates with countries that have specific certification rules may allow the manufacturers to obtain certification conformity marks recognized in these markets through an administrative process, without repetition of tests and factory inspections. To achieve these challenges is important to strength collaboration with all stakeholders, which includes the European Commission. The importance of strengthening the credibility and confidence of European electrical products certification and the increasing of the number of certified products allows consumers to have access to safer products, and that is in compliance with the features for which they were designed. On the other hand, it is one of the most effective ways to support the market surveillance authorities in the fight against counterfeiting.
APR 2016
Within the scope of the bilateral agreements IFBQ has just granted the certification to electrical oven for commercial use produced by Ramalhos S. A. in its factory in Portugal and following a process evaluated by CERTIF. CERTIF is dealing with the processes of other products which could reach a Brazilian certification with the recognition of inspections and tests made in Portugal.
FEB 2016
This certification evaluates the general safety requirements during manufacture, installation, inspection and maintenance of permanent facilities fitness equipment outdoor, of free access, designed for youth and adults. To obtain this certification the equipments are subject to a rigorous evaluation process, which includes an audit of the manufacturing process through a visit to the factory and performing laboratory tests in accordance with EN 16630: 2015, and following CERTIF methodologies. In a time when outdoor exercise is increasingly encouraged and practiced, CERTIF seeks to ensure, with this certification, impartially and credible quality, reliability and performance of these products, demonstrating that the fitness equipment installed abroad for free use, are suitable for use.
JAN 2016
Saint-Gobain Weber Portugal, SA has also got, at the end of 2015, the register of two Environmental Product Declarations concerning rendering mortars weber.therm kal and weber.rev natural, used respectively for bonding and coating of insulating expanded cork boards and finishing in ETICS systems. An EPD communicates verifiable, accurate, non-misleading environmental information for products and their applications, thereby supporting scientifically based, fair choices and stimulating the potential for market-driven continuous environmental improvement. On www.daphabitat.pt you can access all EPD currently registered:
JAN 2016
The evaluation process was completed last December, based on the positive results of the peer assessment carried-out in October. These assessments are performed according to ISO/IEC 17065 and the additional requirements defined by IECEE, giving it a higher level of requirement. The importance of these results is much more than the success of CERTIF, as it continues to provide Portuguese manufacturers the opportunity to have access to product certification with international recognition and with all the added value that this means in terms of competitiveness and marketing.
DEC 2015
In the scope of the agreements CERTIF promotes initial type tests in an accredited laboratory and performs the inspection of the factory production control with its auditors, what allows to the companies a reduction of costs and an easily contact. This process gives to the exporter the access to a very well known Brazilian certification that allows the entrance in the market.
NOV 2015
The full text of the position paper can be read here.
OCT 2015
Nevertheless, the number of building permits authorised in July 2015 has increased compared to the number authorised during the same period last year, while their total area and value also increased, according to the latest figures from the Cyprus Statistical Service. This scenario re-enforces the agreement between CERTIF and CCC – Cyprus Certification Company for construction products area, in particular by the slight increase of certification processes on bituminous products and concrete related products.
OCT 2015
The Advisory Group is responsible for the issue of documents considered as general guidance, to be followed by notified bodies involved in the assessment and verification of constancy of performance (AVCP) of construction products or their factory production control (FPC) to harmonised technical specifications. Along with Portugal the meeting was attended by representatives of more than twenty countries. Also presented representatives of the European Commission, the Group of Administrative Co-operation of Market Surveillance Authorities of the different Member States of the European Union (AdCo) and the Construction Products Europe, which represents the interests of European construction products manufacturers.
OCT 2015
The energy rationalization intended with this measure is also a driving force in various activity sectors, leading manufacturers to continually optimize their products in order to achieve enhanced product performances and their contribution to the energy bill. The construction sector is no exception. Using in the new buildings, or in the rehabilitation of existing ones, products such as insulating glass units (usually called double-glazed) on windows, rather than single glazing, or using classic, but improved products, such as clay roofing tiles on roof coverings, can minimize energy losses between interior and exterior of the building, that result in a clear reduction of the global energy bill. The mentioned products are just two examples of products certified by CERTIF, whose adequate use has a contribution to the preservation of limited resources.
SET 2015
The brochure also explains what to do if the product changes (its processes, raw materials, testing, etc.) and that makes necessary to revise the documents required. The download of this brochure can be done here:
SET 2015
Developed under the EU Horizon 2020 program, this project, led by ESTIF - European Solar Thermal Federation, is supported by several entities in different countries, among which, in Portugal, by ADENE - Agency for Energy, APISOLAR - Portuguese Association of Solar Industry and DECO - Portuguese Association for Consumer Defense. In order to comply with the European Ecodesign Directives, and in particular the Directive on Energy Labelling, the main objective of this project is to meet the new regulations with regard to energy labelling of equipment, for space heating and / or hot water purposes, either to individual systems using conventional energy or combined systems, matching systems consisting of conventional equipment and solar thermal systems. CERTIF, despite not being involved in the implementation and monitoring of the energy labelling system, considers this project of particularly importance, hoping that it will consolidate the quantitative evaluation that is already made to the solar thermal products in the certification procedures. For more information www.estif.org.
MAY 2015
It is expected that also EN 12975-1: 2006 + A1: 2010, which defines the general requirements for thermal solar collectors, will be soon replaced. European standards EN 12975, for solar thermal collectors, and EN 12976 for solar thermal installations were introduced in 2001, and since 2003 these standards have been providing the basis for Solar Keymark certification, the certification program with over 1,800 certificates granted all around the world. CERTIF, is the only national certification body recognized by this international agreement and has issued certificates with Solar Keymark brand since 2005. The Solar Keymark Network has decided that new applications for certification that involve testing according to EN 12975-2 shall not be accepted after the end of 2014. EN ISO 9806: 2013, which specifies test methods to evaluate the durability and the thermal performance of solar thermal collectors, either by the quasi-dynamic method or the stationary method, introduced some changes comparatively to standard 12975-2:2006. Standards EN ISO 9806:2013 and EN 12975-2:2006 have been considered equivalent by the SKN. Being equivalent means that they are based on similar testing procedures and testing equipment. However these standards are not identical, meaning that a certificate issued according to one standard cannot be replaced issued according to the other. One of the changes found is the attribution of climate class: class A for very sunny climate, class B sunny and to class C temperate, varying the exposure test conditions with regard to radiation at and ambient temperature. The impact resistance test with steel ball or ice ball became mandatory, in opposite that we found in EN 12975-2. All certification requests made in 2015 are already following the test plan in accordance with EN ISO 9806: 2013. .
The main objectivs of EEPCA are to promote and facilitate the electrical equipment certification, ensuring a high level of confidence and transparency on the activities of their members. For this purpose are assured actions for promotion and recognition of European common marks (HAR and ENEC), and the development of certification procedures to facilitate the mutual recognition of conformity marks granted by each CB that are part of EEPCA. In this meeting also participated actively several stakeholders such as CECED, Lighting Europe, CECAPI, Europacable, CENELEC, IECEE and ANEC. Several strategic decisions were discussed in depth, and some actions are in action:
MAY 2015
APR 2015
The main task of IECEE CTL is to define the rules, procedures and interpretation sheets for tests in the products to be certified in the scope of IECEE. All IECEE recognized testing laboratories shall follow these documents and are committed to apply the CTL decisions, so that the CB Certificates issued by recognized NCBs are accepted. The most important discussions during the meeting were the following:
APR 2015
The main task of the Advisory Group is to define harmonized guidelines for Notified Bodies, by issuing and make available several documents. These documents are recommendations and cannot be either in conflict or increase the duties assigned to Notified Bodies. In the same way, these documents cannot require additional requirements for manufacturers, than those defined in the CPR and in the European harmonized technical specifications. As the most important discussions during the meeting should be noted the following:
The main actions promoted by this global initiative are to alert governments and general public of the importance of light in the sustainable development of the world and in on our quality of life. Light is part of our world. Lighting is part of our well being, for optical and safety reasons, and plays, nowadays, a key role in the so-called energy efficiency. CERTIF is part of this evolution and offer to its clients different types of certification of luminaires and components which helps the export of these products and gives, also, a better guarantee to the final consumer. CERTIF is member of the European ENEC agreement and the International IECEE agreement. These agreements, in the scope of electrical safety, allow CERTIF to grant the ENEC mark (European common brand), the issuance of CB certificates (international certificate) and also to establish partnership with other certification bodies.
This information will allow appropriate follow up actions (ban/stop of sales, withdrawal, recall or import rejection by Customs authorities) could be taken everywhere in the EU and consumers are informed. In 2014, the number of notifications through RAPEX, concerning dangerous products was 2435, representing an increase of 3% related to 2013. The products with a greater number of notifications were toys (28%), clothing, textiles and fashion items (23%) and electrical appliances and equipment (9%). The greatest number of notifications is, as usual in this report, for products coming from China (64%), the same percentage as in 2013. The complete report can be accessed in http://ec.europa.eu/consumers/consumers_safety/safety_products/rapex/reports/index_en.htm
MAR 2015
In the national legislation it is specified that the equipments used in these installations shall be certified and that the competent national authorities are responsible for controlling the adequacy of the certification. Taking in consideration the specified legal requirements, the equipments shall be certified by a Certification Body, in compliance with the provisions of Scheme 5 of International Standard ISO/IEC 17067. Installations of photovoltaic power systems fall within the above mentioned legal schemes for the generation of electricity by means of renewable energies. The power inverter can be considered a relevant equipment of such installations, as it connects the photovoltaic modules which generate electrical power from solar radiation to the public low-voltage electrical distribution network. Taking in consideration the legal and technical requirements, power inverters must present the functionalities which will allow a duly protected compatible connection between the power generation equipment and the public low-voltage electrical distribution network.
Regarding electrical safety of power inverters, evaluation of conformity is usually supported by European Standards EN 62109-1 and EN 62109-2. It should be emphasized that both of these standards are considered harmonized within the European Low Voltage Directive (LVD) 2006/95/EC.
MAR 2015
Tecnimaster FL – Sistemas Electrónicos, Lda. was the first company to obtain the certification for its External Warning Device X-TEC INTRUSÃO, after the results of an initial audit performed by CERTIF to evaluate the quality system implemented by the manufacturer and the results of the initial type tests performed by the laboratory ISQ LABEL that assured the product complies with the standard. In the market since 1997, TECNIMASTER FL is a company dedicated to the assembly and test electronic equipment, with adequate human and technical resources and innovative technology that ensures maximum quality for the manufactured products exported to Europe and Angola. At the beginning of this year ENEC group has announced that the scope of the ENEC scheme has been extended for the intrusion alarm systems and components. ENEC mark not only allows easy access to the EU market, but also to all EFTA countries and has a high level of acceptance and recognition in the countries of Eastern Europe. CERTIF is the national certification body member of this certification mutual recognized agreement that grants the European common mark ENEC.
The assessment and verification of constancy of performance for this product category is carried-out according to system 1, which requires the initial type testing to the products and an assessment of factory production control. CERTIF has issued the EC Certificates for several manufacturers, based on the positive review of these results. Thus, all these manufacturers are able to place the CE Marking on their products and issue the Declaration of Conformity. The Portuguese manufacturers whose products can be placed on the market in compliance with applicable legal requirements, based on the EC Certificates issued by CERTIF, are as follows:
DEC 2014
The work proceeded with the recognition of new members and discussion and approval of the plan and budget for 2015, which remains essentially linked to the role that the platform has as the managing body of the Sustainable Habitat Cluster and the commitments that it will take in this capacity. In this plan it places emphasis on interventions at communication level, dissemination and information of the association and its members as well as the level of promotion and dynamics of innovation projects and competitiveness with associates. The work also went through the revision of the statutes of the Platform.
NOV 2014
CERTIF, with an active participation in various initiatives of the platform, attended a roundtable of this congress, dedicated to "Sustainable construction materials and constructive solutions", with the publication of an article in the book of the conference on "Sustainability in construction products", as well as event sponsor. Among others, the topics of the congress were devoted to rehabilitation and sustainability, to efficient use of energy and resources and to smart and sustainable communities, most notably the intervention of several invited experts in these areas, which had launched challenges and new solutions. Were also presented opportunities and challenges for 2014-2020 for the European, national and regional framework, and also some, experiences of internationalization taking place at Cluster Habitat.
This Seminar was opened with the presence of the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development and was chaired by the Minister of Tourism, Investment and Business Development, who made, in her speech, the defense of product certification as a tool of development. CERTIF General Manager has participated with a presentation about Product Certification and possible ways for its implementation in Cape Verde. This action will have its continuity with preparatory of technical specifications that address local products.
NOV 2014
SG04 is responsible for monitoring the harmonized standards for circulation fixtures, including fixed signs (EN 12899-1) and road restraint systems vehicle (EN 1317), among others. In this meeting was discussed the harmonization of evaluation criteria, as well as clarification of some doubts arising from the entry in force in the 1st July 2013, the new Construction Products Regulation. Concerning traffic signs, the minutes of the previous meeting were approved, with the clarification of the method of approving screen printing processes, materials to use, and requirements of the factory production control to be adopted by the manufacturers. The newly appointed Technical Secretary of Notified Bodies, Mr. Anders Elbeck, during his presentation of CPR, emphasized the obligation of issuing DoP-Declaration of Performance, as well the possibility of still relying on certificates issued under the CPD-Construction Products Directive
OCT 2014
For the harmonization of criteria to conduct tests in this scope, are performed, annually, interlaboratory comparison tests. At this meeting were analyzed the results of the HAR Comparative Testing program for 2014. The importance of assuring the quality of test results assumes a particular relevance for this common European conformity mark that has the same value and validity in all countries of the various certification bodies. Other discussion was about questions related with the implementation of standards for electrical cables that are in scope of this agreement, which will soon be extended to photovoltaic cables (PV Cables) and cables for electric vehicles. The future implementation of the Construction Products Regulation (CPR) to the harmonized electrical cables was also mentioned.
OCT 2014
CTCV is located in Coimbra and has a relevant cooperation with CERTIF in several scopes, like glass and construction products, and also in inspection activities and sustainability.
OCT 2014
As usual, formal and technical items related to the application of the Solar Keymark Specific Scheme Rules were discussed by the involved parties (Certification Bodies, Laboratories and Manufacturers), with the main objectives of improvement, clarification and harmonization of the applicable procedures. One of the main topics discussed during the meeting was the transition from EN 12975-2:2006 to EN ISO 9806:2013, which is applicable to Thermal Solar Collectors. The adopted procedure for transition will be included in a new version of the Solar Keymark Specific Scheme Rules, which will be made available soon.
SEP 2014
To highlight the confirmation of implementation from January 1st, 2015 of new documents establishing the requirements for conducting factory inspections, including the report template. It was also initiated the discussion for the harmonization of routine and periodic verification tests, which are performed by the manufacturer, as part of the continuous monitoring of the manufacturing process. Many of these tests are already established in several normative documents. However, OSM/FIP intends to issue all the requirements in a consolidated document, organized by product category. Thus, it may be possible eliminate the additional requirements that are set out by some certification bodies to grant their marks of conformity. Other discussion was about the current difficulty in selecting samples for testing in some routine factory inspections at the manufacturing premises, due either to the no production or no stock. The aim is to find solutions that will not jeopardize the accuracy and credibility of the certifications, but, at the same time, do not cause unnecessary constraints to the manufacturers that are subject to market rules ever stricter. At last, the harmonization of procedures between the IECEE Certification Bodies for conducting factory inspections was also discussed. It was noted that the progress for cooperation has been increasing.
SEP 2014
IECRE was created in the scope of the International Electrotechnical Commission with the objective of facilitating international trade in equipment and services for use in renewable energy sectors while maintaining the required level of safety. Three Sector Groups had been created, Marine Energy, Solar PV Energie and Wind Energy, being each one responsible for the development of the procedures to the certification of equipment to manufacture, transport and service the energy-producing equipment., as well as the requirements for the recognition at the international level. CERTIF participates as National Member and candidate to future National Certification Body. The participation as certification body is opened to all of them that fulfill the requirements and wish to be recognized.
SEP 2014
This year's event will be held at Fundação Dr. António Cupertino de Miranda on Avenida da Boavista (Porto). This event aims to bring together companies, municipalities, centers of R & D, business associations and other agents of the Sustainable Habitat Cluster, in order to promote synergies and generating partnerships for innovation and competitiveness. More information on http://cincos.pt/
SEP 2014
This certification demonstrates the ability the organization has to provide safe food to its students and employees, in accordance with legal and statutory requirements. The Colégio Campo de Flores, an organization with more than 40 years, aware of its responsibility for food safety, obtained their food safety system certification, thus proven to ensuring the availability of safe food.
AUG 2014
AUG 2014
SPF has been accredited according to ISO/IEC 17025 since 2001, by the Swiss Accreditation Service (SAS), to perform tests on solar thermal products (in particular, collectors and factory made systems) and components. The scope of the accreditation includes national, european and international standards. The recent close cooperation between both institutions has already driven two manufacturers to make an option to test their thermal solar collectors at SPF. Both manufactures had already, for some years, some of their thermal solar products certified by CERTIF with Solar Keymark, which is the European Certification Scheme for Thermal Solar Products. The scheme was developed by the ESTIF - European Solar Thermal Industry Federation and CEN - European Committee for Standardization, in close cooperation with leading European Test Laboratories and Certification Bodies, benefitting from the support of the European Commission.
AUG 2014
JUL 2014
The certification concerns 60 buses lines and one from tramways (line no. 15), which represent the lines most frequented by passengers, namely tourists. The certification of these lines attests its quality in terms like accessibility of the service, the information given to the public, the fulfillment of established schedules, help to passengers, between several other relevant aspects to the users of this means of transport.
JUL 2014
JUN 2014
The evaluation and verification of constancy of performance, conducted in accordance with the system 1 of CPR, has included testing by ITeCons. The certificate of constancy of performance, issued by CERTF, includes two polymer fibers, MESH 2000 54 and POLYEX DURO 48. EXPORPLÁS was founded in 1981, has its headquartered in Cortegaca, Ovar, and is a leading company in the production and export of high performance synthetic ropes, yarns and fibers. With a wide range of products intended to different applications, such as agriculture, fishing, packaging, construction and synthetic grass, about 95% of production is exported to the European and North-American markets.
JUN 2014
In this meeting are approved or validated new procedures that could streamline and give a better consistence to the international agreements. With these agreements it is possible to CERTIF, in the scope of CB-Scheme, to see its testing certificates internationally recognized, whereas in the scope of CFS is done the recognition of audit reports. The participation in this meeting is, also, an opportunity to establish new bilateral agreements that allow CERTIF to offer to its clients access to other markets in competitive conditions.
JUN 2014
This kind of surface treatment comprises a mixture of aggregates, bituminous emulsion and additives, which is mixed and laid in-place. Slurry surfacing application may consist in one or more layers. As Notified Body, under Construction Products Regulation, CERTIF has granted to two companies in Cyprus, IACOVOU BROTHERS (Constructions) Ltd. and A.N.C. Waterproofing Industries, Ltd. the first certificates of conformity of the factory production control to slurry surfacing, assessed in accordance with EN 12273:2008- Slurry surfacing. Requirements. These processes are included on the extensive internationally activity developed by CERTIF and under the agreement between CERTIF and CCC – Cyprus Certification Company, for construction products area.
JUN 2014
APCMC (Portuguese Association of Traders of Building Materials), held on 30 and 31 May its 17th National Congress in Porto, simultaneously with the realization of the international conference "Rehabilitation and Sustainable Construction - A Global Challenge". This event, as an important meeting point of industry professionals, had the presence and participation of national and foreign leading figures, either from universities, associative areas and businesses.
MAY 2014
CERTIF, who, since the first years, participates actively in this certification scheme, continues with a prominent position between the 14 certification bodies qualified to grant this mark. Solar Keymark is, nowadays, recognized not only in Europe but also in many other countries, being a guarantee of conformity to the users that have access to a technical information based in tests performed in accredited laboratories.
APR 2014
General Managers of both organizations and the Operational Directors of IFBQ studied the best procedures to give a quickly answer to their demands, what will allow a better service to their clients. With the development of this cooperation CERTIF is better and better positioned to offer to its clients the access a certification of other countries, namely in Brazil, where it is possible to reach the conformity marks of IFBQ, leader in product certification in this country
APR 2014
MAR 2014
The work began by recognizing new members, totally 125, for examining the annual report and accounts of the year 2013 and for giving information on projects completed and in progress, in particular the SIAC project for Promotion and Internationalisation on Sustainable Habitat cluster. This project was the subject of a public workshop after the General Assembly, which sought to inform those interested in the dynamics of internationalization and set up working groups interested in this action. In the Platform website, at www.centrohabitat.net, more detailed information can be found on each of the projects already completed and ongoing projects.
MAR 2014
FEV 2014
The meeting, held in Dusseldorf, Germany, had as its main agenda the harmonization of criteria by the Notified Bodies in the evaluation of EN 1090-1 - Execution of steel structures and aluminum, which is mandatory after 1 July 2014. Due to the many doubts, during the meeting, was established the need to issue a "Guidance document" for better harmonization in the interpretation of some requirements of the standard.
JAN 2014
The certificate was issued by CERTIF to the scope of knowledge management and specialized training, updating and improvement, on types of products, areas, modalities and forms of organization. In this scope is included a wide set of education and training areas. NP 4512 standard was developed by CTA 25 to achieve one of the objectives of the European Project of Innovation Transference Q-Cert-VET. This standard is aligned with ISO 9001 and includes legal requirements of Ordinance no. 851/2010. This certification demonstrates that the organization has capacity to provide training products consistently and can meet the requirements of their customers, increasing their satisfaction, and in accordance with legal and statutory requirements
|
|||||||||||||||
The Group of Notified Bodies met in Brussels on 4th April. Among the topics discussed were three draft position papers on kits, reporting of the assessment of performance in AVCP system 3 and working with ETAS and EADs.
Ivo Ribeiro, S.A., a company with the trade name Electroinstal, with activity in the area of electrical installations and HVAC, having already been certified in the field of fluorinated gases, obtained now the Quality Management System certification according to the NP EN ISO 9001:2015 standard. 
The World Quality Day, established by the United Nations in 1990, is held annually on the second Thursday of November, with the aim of drawing Society's attention to the strategic importance of Quality as it contributes to the growth and the heterogeneity of individuals, organizations and nations.
Each year on 14 October, the members of the IEC, ISO and ITU celebrate World Standards Day, which is a means of paying tribute to the collaborative efforts of thousands of experts worldwide who develop the voluntary technical agreements that are published as International Standards.
Eurocer- building, the European Association of Product Certification Bodies in the Construction sector, met in Madrid representatives from Belgium, Spain, France, Italy and Portugal to analyze the situation of European legislation concerning certification and CE marking. However the highlight was given to the developments of conformity assessment related to sustainability, which are in the focus of the certification bodies present in the meeting to respond to the needs of their clients.
The ETICS - European Testing Inspection Certification System annual meeting was held on April 25th and 26th, on Offenbach, Germany, kindly hosted by VDE.
After the great success in 2019 of EOQ Congress, in Lisbon, APQ – Portuguese Association for Quality organizes the 64th EOQ Congress that will take place on November 9th and 10th of 2023 in Hilton Porto Gaia hotel.
On the 28th March was held in Brussels the 54th Meeting of the Advisory Group (GNB-CPR AG), of the Group of Notified Bodies under the Regulation (EU) No. 305/2011 - Construction Products Regulation. CERTIF was present as representative of the Portuguese National Mirror Group of Notified Bodies (GONP), under this regulation.
The company Ferromar – Comércio e Indústria de Fernando Pinho Teixeira, S.A., obtained at the end of February the certification to its Quality Management System, in accordance with the EN ISO 9001:2015 standard, for the commercialization, transformation and distribution of carbon steel products.
ALPI Portugal – Navegação e Trânsitos, Lda, began 2023 with the certification of its Quality and Environmental Management System, in accordance with the standards EN ISO 9001:2015 and EN ISO 14001:2015, for the scope organization and logistics of international transport by land, sea and air.
ISO – International Organization for Standardization has just published its annual survey of the number of valid certificates to ISO management systems standards worldwide, issued by certification bodies accredited by IAF – International Forum of Accreditation. ISO Survey 2021 includes 4 new standards, bringing it to a total of 16 ISO management system standards. This survey shows an increase in all standars comparing with last year.
VALBOPAN - Fibras de Madeira, S.A. is the first company to obtain the UK Certificate of Conformity of the Factory Production Control benefiting from the recognition agreement that CERTIF has established with the BBA - British Board of Agrément.
Feliz Painel, a company of Grupo Feliz, already a client of CERTIF under CE marking for “Self-supporting Double Skin Metal Faced Insulating Panels” according to EN 14509:2013, has now been granted the certification of its quality management system by the standard EN ISO 9001:2015 for the design, development and production of its panels.
CERTIF has established a recognition agreement with CARES Steel Certification that allows its clients that export construction products covered by the mandatory CE marking to England, Scotland or Wales to access the UKCA marking.
On the 22nd March was held the 51st Meeting of the Advisory Group (GNB-CPR AG), of the Group of Notified Bodies under the Regulation (EU) No. 305/2011 - Construction Products Regulation. CERTIF was present as representative of the Portuguese National Mirror Group of Notified Bodies (GONP), under this regulation.
Vidreira Tua-Mirandela, Lda. has seen its Quality Management System certified by CERTIF, fulfilling the requirements of the NP EN ISO 9001:2015 standard for the following scope: “Flat glass transformation. Production of air-filled insulating glass units. Glass installation in construction works.”
The World Standards Day is celebrated on 14th October, as a joint initiative of ISO, IEC and ITU to call the attention to the importance of standards and to pay tribute to those experts who are involved and participate in its elaboration. 
With the beginning of the fire season, our concern increases. The use of reliable firefighting equipment can help prevent this type of situation from taking more serious situations.
World Accreditation Day is celebrated on the 9th June as an initiative of ILAC and IAF to promote the value of accreditation.
AT SOLAR has obtained its first Solarkeymark certification for a solar thermal collector. Located in Vouzela, AT Solar becomes now part of the group of companies holding the European brand for solar thermal collectors and systems granted by CERTIF.
Hou Ta Electric Cords & Plugs Co., Ltd. was the first company in Taiwan to get CERTIF – Product Certified Mark for no-rewirable plugs with cable, after have been carried out successfully the audit to evaluate the quality system implemented by the manufacturer, as well the type tests which assure that products comply with the standard IEC 60884-1:2002 + AMD1:2006 + AMD2:2013 and the additional tests needed to confirm if plugs dimensions are according to the applicable Standard Sheet of CEE 7.
CERTIF has been empowered for Heat Pump KEYMARK for the certification of heat pumps with a storage tank for domestic water production, according to EN 16147.
Mestre Alimentar - Comercialização de Produtos Alimentares, Lda. renewed the certification of its Quality Management and Food Safety System by the standards ISO 9001: 2015 and ISO 22000: 2018, respectively.
The certificates are intended for the sale and distribution of frozen, chilled and at room temperature food.
Sonae Arauco España obtained the CE Marking for the Wood-Based Panels products. The certificates 1328-CPD-0831 e 1328-CPD-0832 refer to products Particleboard P2 raw or melamine faced with fire retardant treatment for internal use as non-structural components in dry conditions and Fiberboard MDF melamine faced with fire retardant treated for internal use as non-structural components in dry conditions.
The World Quality Day, created by United Nations Organization in 1990, is celebrated, this year on 12th November under the theme “Creating costumer value”.
The World Standards Day is celebrated on 14th October, as a joint initiative of ISO, IEC and ITU to call the attention to the importance of standards and to pay tribute to those experts who are involved and participate in its elaboration.
The last edition of the NP 4413: 2019 fire extinguisher maintenance standard was published last year. This revision harmonizes the legislative and normative changes that have occurred since 2012, as well as the clarification of some points in relation to the previous edition.
The World Accreditation Day, is celebrated on the 9th June, as an initiative of IAF- International Accreditation Forum and ILAC – International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation, this year with the theme “Accreditation: Improving food safety”.
Umbelino Monteiro, S.A. has renewed the certification of its Quality Management System (QMS), Environmental Management System (EMS) and Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems (OHSMS) renewed by CERTIF for the scope “Production and commercialization of clay roofing tiles and fittings. Commercialization of other complementary roof fittings.”
ARGEX – Argila Expandida, S.A., a PRECERAM Group company, has successfully completed the process of verification and registration of its first Environmental Product Declaration for lightweight expanded clay aggregates.
CERTIF as Notified Body under the Construction Products Regulation, has issued for the first time in Portugal the certificate that allows CE marking for the signal traffic panels with variable dimension, usually placed in highways and roads with heavy traffic.
At the invitation of Abrac - Brazilian Association for Conformity Assessment, the General Manager of CERTIF presented in São Paulo the New European Legislative Framework and the rules for the application of CE marking. This lecture was aimed to allow Abrac associates, certification and inspection bodies and laboratories, to a better understanding of the system at a time when INMETRO is implementing a New Regulatory Model that will change the whole process of compulsory certifications in Brazil.
The database available at 
Last July 2019 CERTIF granted Four Paints, Lda. the certification of the quality management system in accordance with NP EN ISO 9001: 2015, as result of a transfer process.
In 2019 CERTIF completes twenty years of activity at the service of companies and portuguese economy.
Entreferros Serralharia e Construções Metálicas, Lda. is a manufacturer that operates in the field of civil locksmithing and steel construction with the factory production control system execution of steel structures already certified, obtained now the certification of its Quality Management System according to NP EN ISO/IEC 9001: 2015.
9th June is the World Accreditation Day, an initiative of IAF- International Accreditation Forum and ILAC – International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation, this year with the theme “Accreditation: Adding Value to Supply Chains”.
CERTIF has been visited by a Delegation of Cabo Verde in the scope of its Project of Energy Efficiency in Buildings and Equipments this country is implementing. After the presentation of the Project the engineers of the Delegation have learnt about CERTIF experience in product certification and, in conclusion, some areas of potential collaboration had been identified.
TERMOLAN - Isolamentos Termo-Acústicos, S.A. has successfully completed the process of verification of the Environmental Declaration of Product related to the stone wool, used as panels or blankets for thermal insulation, acoustic and fire protection.
PAVIGRÉS CERÂMICAS, S.A. successfully completed the process of verification and registration of three new Environmental Product Declarations related to porcelain tiles, glazed vitrified white body tiles and porous body ceramic tiles used as floor and walls coverings.
On the 27th march, the Associação Plataforma para a Construção Sustentável, managing body of the Sustainable Habitat Cluster in Portugal, held its XXV General Assembly, at the auditorium of Centro Tecnológico da Cerâmica e do Vidro, where CERTIF was present as associated member.
Organized by the Portuguese Association for Quality (APQ) will take place in Lisbon, in October, the 63º European Congress of Quality with the theme Rediscovering Quality. It is the third time that EOQ Congress is hosted by APQ, after 1985 and 1994, and it happens in the year when APQ celebrates its 50th anniversary.
ENEC, a common European Mark for electrical products, mainly related to safety, 25 years old, internationally recognized, presents an identification number of the certification body that grants the mark.
CERTIF participated in the Seminar: Occupational Safety in Industrial Based Companies: Prevention as a Competitiveness Factor, organized by CTCV – Centro Tecnológico da Cerâmica e do Vidro and by Escola Superior de Tecnologias de Saúde de Coimbra - ESTeSC in Coimbra.
FERROVIAL / MSF - BARRAGENS, ACE obtained in 2018 the certification by CERTIF of the concrete production control system implemented in the concrete plants associated to the construction works of the Gouvães hydroelectric power station and Daivões dam and hydroelectric power station.
Last December took place at Parque de Exposições de Aveiro the Cluster Habitat Sustentável Congress CINCOS’18. The sixth edition of this event, promoted by the Plataforma para a Construção Sustentável, recognized as the managing entity of the Cluster Habitat Sustentável in Portugal, was attended by more than 230 participants.
CERTIF continues supporting the construction sector in Portugal. Recently has granted the CE Marking under the Construction Products Regulation, (EU) No. 305/2011, to two new manufacturers of metal structures:
Under the subject Making it happen: Quality in Action, APQ – Associação Portuguesa para a Qualidade has organized, in Porto, its 43rd Congress, with near 300 participants, being CERTIF one of the sponsors.
The World Standards Day is celebrated on 14th October, as a joint initiative of ISO, IEC and ITU to call the attention to the importance of standards and to pay tribute to those experts who are involved and participate in its elaboration.
The certification of solar thermal products is granted within a European Scheme certification – Solar Keymark, according to standards: EN 12975-1: 2006 + A1: 2010 & EN ISO 9806: 2017, applicable to solar thermal collectors and EN 12976-1: 2017 & EN 12976 -2: 2017, applicable to solar thermal systems.
As an interested party in the development of standards, CERTIF participates in several Technical Standardisation Committees, supported by IPQ - Instituto Português da Qualidade, as National Standardisation Organization in Portugal. CERTIF's latest involvement included the participation, since the beginning, in the works of CT 202 - Ceramic Tableware, chaired by CTCV, and experts from IPQ, CTCV, APICER, CENCAL, Instituto Politécnico de Leiria and the University of Aveiro.
In June, 9 is celebrated the World Accreditation Day, an initiative of IAF – International Accreditation Forum and ILAC – International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation.
In Agay, France, had place the 21º Certification Management Committee of IECC Meeting (Worldwide System for Conformity Testing and Certification of Electrotechnical Equipment and Components), with the presence of CERTIF in its quality of National Member, representative of Portugal, and also as certification body member of these international agreements. 
The Technical Regulation on Fire Safety in Buildings (Decree No. 1532/2008, December 29), has established NP 4413 as mandatory for companies carrying out extinguisher maintenance activities.
Vitrochaves - Indústria de Vidro, S.A. has seen its Quality Management System certification confirmed by CERTIF. Fulfilling the requirements of NP EN ISO 9001:2015, the company also obtained an extension of the QMS certification to the production of screen-printed glass.
In 2017, within the scope of the IECCE CB Scheme (
CERTIF and ISQ are part of the list of approved international Testing Labs and Certification Bodies by Civil Defense Department of UAE for the acceptation of fire detection and fire alarm systems.
NP EN ISO 22000: 2005 is an international standard applicable to all organizations involved in the food chain, from primary production to distribution.
The City Council of Góis obtained the certification of the Quality Management System of the Service of Assistance to the Citizen by the standard NP EN ISO 9001: 2015.
CANDELA - Sistemas Reflectores Rodoviários, Lda. completed successfully the process of Assessment and Verification of Constancy of Performance, (CE Marking), of Retroreflecting Road Studs in accordance with harmonized European standard EN 1463-1: 2009.
Marketing electrical products in the Eurasian Economic space of the Customs Union (with Belarus, Kazakhstan and the Russian Federation as initial members) requires the relevant products to be subject to either a Mandatory Certification of Conformity or a Mandatory Declaration of Conformity according to the applicable Custom Union Technical Regulation.
On the 26th and 27th September, with the organization of CERTIF, as host, was held in Lisbon the annual meeting of HAR-OSM Group with experts of cables representatives of certification bodies who grant the common European mark < HAR> and experts of its associated laboratories. The associated laboratory with CERTIF to perform tests in the scope of HAR agreement is the ISQ / LABCAB -Laboratório de Ensaios de Cabos Elétricos. This meeting was attended by 16 representatives from 14 countries.
The World Standards Day is celebrated on 14th October, as an initiative of ISO, IEC and ITU to call the attention to the importance of standards and to pay tribute to those experts who are involved and participate in its elaboration.
With the end of the coexistence period of EN 50575:2014+A1:2016, has became mandatory, in the scope of Construction Products Regulation Reg.(UE) nº 3015/2011, CE marking in the commercialization of power, control and communication cables - Cables for general applications in construction works subject to reaction to fire requirements.
June, 9, as a global initiative of IAF – International Accreditation Forum and ILAC – International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation marks the world Accreditation Day.
As a result of a cooperation agreement with AIMMP (Portuguese Association of Wood and Furniture Industry) CERTIF will certify Wooden Funeral Urns with the mark CNUF, owned by this Association.
European Commission has published RAPEX 2016 report. RAPEX is the rapid alert system for dangerous non-food products. The goal of the system is to allow the recall of dangerous products in the market.
Eurocer-building meet its General Assembly in Milan where, besides the developments concerning product certification and Construction Products Regulation, took place, as main point, a workshop about BIM (Building Information Modeling) animated by “building Smart Italia” and where were presented iniciatives in the different countries, with emphasis to Italy, where ICMQ has already in force a personal certification scheme for experts, coordinators and managers of BIM.
The consumption of energy in the daily life of developed societies is inevitable for companies and organizations that seek to optimize their processes.
On 23rd February 2017, the Sustainable Habitat Cluster was recognised by the Portuguese Government as a consolidated Competitiveness Cluster for a period of 6 years. In this way, the conditions are created to accelerate again its promotion actions for the competitiveness of companies. The vision and mission of the Cluster for this new period continues to be to add and strengthen the links between companies, municipalities, R&D centres, associations and other entities that focus on sustainability as a motto for innovation and competitiveness. The recognition of the Cluster was made simultaneously with the presentation of the Interface Program, in which Competitiveness Clusters are considered as one of its fundamental pillars.
CERTIF, that has been working since the end of 2016 to develop the Certification of the Weighing Process by Method 2 of Container Loads, is already accredited by the Portuguese Institute of Accreditation, IP (IPAC, IP) to this scope.
Shippers and companies providing load consolidation services for containers have until March 31, 2017 to comply with the requirements referred in paragraph 3 of article 5 of Decree-Law no. 51/2016, of August 23, defined in Deliberation No. 21/2017 published in the Diário da República on January 10, 2017.
Umbelino Monteiro, S.A., has obtained from CERTIF the certification of its Occupational Health and Safety Management System (OHSMS) for the scope “Production of clay roofing tiles and fittings. Commercialization of roof tiles, fibre-cement sheets and roof fittings.”
This year a new KEYMARK Certification Scheme has been made available to the market of heat pumps for space heating and/or domestic hot water production. The scope of this KEYMARK Certification Scheme is currently limited to heat pumps with heating capacities of up to 400 kW. The certification scheme has been named as “Heat Pump KEYMARK”.
At the end of 2014, amendments to the Safety of Life at Sea Convention (SOLAS) were approved in order to avoid the various accidents at sea attributed to containers with incorrectly declared weights fomenting the safe transport of sea transport.
Focused on “How to ensure product safety in a global market” the organizations CEOC, ETIC, EUROLAB and IFIA organized the 7th conference about safety.
EN 124 for gully tops and manhole tops will end its transition period next March 2017. This standard, that is the reference for product certification, is very much important for public tenders, namely for municipalities.
CERTIF continues investing in the certification of persons, from the point of view of professional skills in key sectors of market.
Eurocer-building, association of European certification bodies acting in building and construction sector, had its General Assembly in Eindhoven, Netherlands, where took place discussions about questions related to voluntary certification products and also about Construction Products Regulation.
The members had also discussed new developments and new areas, namely in the environmental area and certification of persons in the field of construction, what is more and more asked in some markets.
The Congress of Innovation on Sustainable Construction (CINCOS’16) is an event organized for the Sustainable Habitat Cluster in Portugal.
The annual Operational Staff Meeting / Factory Inspections Procedures (OSM/FIP), took place last 13th and 14th September, in Madrid, with the participation of CERTIF.
With the sponsorship and approval of the Minister of Industry of Angola, CERTIF and IANORQ (Angolan Institute for Standardization and Quality) have signed, in Luanda, a cooperation memorandum in the domain of product certification and auditors training. Through the signature of this memorandum, and by request of clients, CERTIF audits will be, initially, accompanied by IANORQ auditors that will allow to stamp on CERTIF certificates also the IANORQ symbol.
The European Office Police (EUROPOL) and ETICS, the European Testing Inspection and Certification System announced that they have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) which sets out the role of both organisations and how they will work together in the future to achieve their goals.
The 11th Joint Meeting of European Groups (OSMLUM) and International (CTL ETF5) of Lighting and Components took place in Stockholm, with the participation of 28 certification bodies and laboratories from different countries members of IECEE (CB), CCA and ENEC, in which CERTIF is an effective member.
ADA – Aceria de Angola has obtain the certification of its steel bars for reinforced concrete, being the first company in Africa to get access to CERTIF-Certified Product mark.
In Oslo, Norway, had place the 19º Certification Management Committee of IECC Meeting (Worldwide System for Conformity Testing and Certification of Electrotechnical Equipment and Components), with the presence of CERTIF in its quality of National Member, representative of Portugal, and also as certification body member of these international agreements.
M.M. & P.- Comércio e Transformação de Vidro, Lda., obtained the certification of its Quality Management System for the scope "Production and commercialization of air-filled double insulating glass units.
CERTIF has issued new certificates that allow Global Fire Equipment S.A. the access to the CE Marking for 4 new products under the Fire Detection and Fire Alarm Systems: 
CERTIF, by order of President of IGQPI, was integrated in the National Quality System of Cape Vert as certification body for products, quality and environment.
The 1st ETICS Meetings was held in Prague, on April, 12th to 15th.
IFBQ, a Brazilian certification body, and CERTIF have been working to create the best conditions to offer to its clients, allowing them to get a recognized and added value certification at lower costs.
CERTIF began 2016 with the development of certification of permanently installed outdoor fitness equipment in accordance with European standard EN 16630: 2015.
SOFALCA - Sociedade Central de Produtos de Cortiça, Lda. was the first company to get the registration of their Environmental Product Declaration for expanded cork board (ICB) in System DAPHabitat, Portuguese system specific for EPD registration of habitat products.
CERTIF has kept its international recognition as a Certification Body member of IECEE in the scope of electrical products certification.
Within its partnership with IFBQ, a Brazilian certification body, CERTIF has been developing some product certification from companies that want to export to Brazil, where these products certification is compulsory.
Eurocer-building, the European association of certification bodies in the construction sectors has meet in General Assembly and, in response to doubts that some authorities has been putting concerning certification and CE- marking has decided to elaborate a position paper where is clarified the role of CE-marking as a legal provision to facilitate the free movement of products within the European Community and voluntary certification where there is always the involvement of a third party organization and promotes the quality and performance of the products used in construction works.
The construction sector in Cyprus recorded the biggest drop in production year-on-year in the European Union Member States according to a report published by Eurostat (April 2015).
On the 20th October was held in Brussels the 38th Meeting of the Advisory Group (GNB-CPR AG), of the Group of Notified Bodies under the Regulation (EU) No. 305/2011 - Construction Products Regulation. CERTIF was present as representative of the Portuguese National Mirror Group of Notified Bodies (GONP), under this regulation.
Last, October 25th, the summer hour ended and, in Portugal the clocks were delayed 1 hour.
European Commission, within the scope of Construction Products Regulation (CPR) has just published an interesting brochure with an explanation of the steps to follow to CE mark a new construction product.
Label Pack A+ is the name of the project aiming to support and streamline the implementation of new regulations on energy labeling heating equipment for environment and/or hot water.
Last April, in Seville, took place the annual meetings of EEPCA (European Electrical Product Certification Association), that represents 25 European Certification Bodies (CB), including CERTIF. 
Took place in Milan, Italy, the General Assembly of Eurocer-building, the European association of certified bodies acting in construction and building sectors where, besides the usual network of cooperation and the discussion of questions related to mutual recognitions, the main point was the added value of voluntary product certification in relation to CE marking
An important element in defense of this position was a study made by IFIA in which was verified that based on 127 samples of products were compliance with safety standards were self declared a percentage of non-compliant was 82% and in 15 cases were detected safety critical failures. On the other hand, in another analyze of 120 samples, which, besides CE marking had already been certified by an accredited product certification body, 25% were not in full compliance with standards and regulations, and only in 1 case had safety critical failures.
The Certification Director of CERTIF has participated on the 52nd. IECEE CTL Meeting, which took place in Genève in April.
The 37th Meeting of the Advisory Group of Notified Bodies under the CPR took place in Paris last month, with the participation of CERTIF, on behalf of Portuguese Mirror Group.
The General Assembly of the United Nations proclaimed the year 2015 as the International Year of the Light, and light-based technologies.
The European Commission has just published the RAPEX report concerning 2014. RAPEX is the rapid alert system for dangerous non-food products. The goal of this system is to ensure that that information about dangerous products withdrawn from the market and/or recalled anywhere in Europe is quickly circulated between Member States and the European Commission. 
The certification of power inverters for use in photovoltaic power systems falls within the Portuguese Legislation applicable for micro-generation, mini-generation and self-consumption of electricity by means of renewable energies.
CERTIF has granted, for the first time, its conformity mark CERTIF Certified Product for intrusion alarm warning devices according to EN 50131-4:2009.
CERTIF is a notified body for Construction Product Regulation in the scope of harmonized standard EN 12899-1:2007, which is applicable for fixed traffic signs.
On the 5th December, the Associação Plataforma para a Construção Sustentável, managing body of the Sustainable Habitat Cluster in Portugal, held its XV General Assembly, at the auditorium of Centro Tecnológico da Cerâmica e do Vidro, where CERTIF was present as associated member.
On 13th and 14th November took place in Porto, the Congress of Innovation on Sustainable Construction (CINCOS'14). This was the fourth edition of this event, organised by the Platform for Sustainable Construction, recognized as the managing entity of the Cluster Sustainable Habitat in Portugal.
Organized by the Institute of Quality Management Institute and Intellectual Property (IGOPI) was held in Praia, Santiago Island, Cape Verde, a seminar with the theme Quality and Trust Seminar - Factors Development and Competitiveness.
CERTIF has participated in the annual meeting of the HAR-OSM Group, held on 30th September and 1st October 1 in Vienna. This European Group is constituted by 18 certification bodies that may grant the common European conformity mark <HAR>, and their laboratories. The associated laboratory of CERTIF to perform tests in the scope of HAR agreement is the ISQ / LABCAB –Testing laboratory for electrical cables. This meeting was attended by 19 members from 15 European countries. 
The new laboratory for Energy Systems of CTCV was accredited by IPAC, the Portuguese Accreditation Body, according to ISO/IEC 17025 for the scope of EN 12975-1:2006+A1:2010 and EN ISO 9806:2013, and has been recognized by CERTIF, Empowered Certification Body for Solar Keymark Network, as a new test laboratory within the network.
The 17th Solar Keymark Meeting was held in Brussels, last September 30th and October 1st.
CERTIF has participated in Boulder, USA, in the inaugural meeting of IECRE (IEC System for Certification to Standards Relating to Equipment for Use in Renewable Energy Applications), being one of the fifteen initial members of this new agreement.
The Platform for Sustainable Construction, as manager of the Sustainable Habitat Cluster in Portugal, will host the 4th edition of Innovation Congress in Sustainable Construction (CINCOS'14), in Porto of 13 and 14/November/2014.
The Colégio Campo de Flores, located in Caparica, was the first company to obtain the certification of its HACCP system, according to the Codex Alimentarius. The scope of the certificate is the provision of food services. 
IPAC – Portuguese Institute for Accreditation has granted to CERTIF the scope of its accreditation to the standard NP 4512:2012 - Vocational training management system, including technology enhanced learning. Requirements
CERTIF as an Empowered Certification Body within Solar Keymark Network, has recently recognized as new test laboratory SPF - Institut für Solartechnik, located in Rapperswil, a town not far from Zurich, Switzerland. SPF is part of the HSR - Hochschule für Technik, which is a member of the University of Applied Sciences of Eastern Switzerland.
CARRIS, the first company to get the certification of the public transportation service in Portugal, has succeeded in the renewal of the certification of the most relevant lines of urban buses and tramways in Lisbon. This certification gives to CARRIS clients’ CARRIS the guarantee that the quality and the conditions of the service are adequate to their expectations and needs.
The 9th Joint Meeting of European (OSMLUM) and International (CTL ETF5) Groups of Lighting and Components was held last June, in Istanbul, with the large participation of 24 certification bodies and laboratories from different country members of IECEE (CB), CCA and ENEC, in which CERTIF is an effective member.
CERTIF has granted EXPORPLÁS - Plastics Industry Export, SA the first certificate of constancy of performance for polymeric fibers, assessed according to EN 14889-2:2006 - Fibres for concrete. Part 2: Polymer fibers - Definitions, specifications and conformity, under the Products Construction Regulation (CPR).
In Cairns, Australia, had place the 17º Certification Management Committee of IECC Meeting (Worldwide System for Conformity Testing and Certification of Electrotechnical Equipment and Components), with the presence of CERTIF in its quality of National Member, representative of Portugal, and also as certification body member of these international agreements.
Slurry surfacing, sometimes called slurry seal, apply to surface treatment of roads with evidence of degradation, in order to waterproof and give them good roughness characteristics, slowing down complete destruction and consequently extending the lifetime of the pavement.
CERTIF and IFBQ (Brazil) have meet in São Paulo to analyze and strength their strategies, preparing new cooperation.
The Associação Plataforma para a Construção Sustentável, the managing body of the Sustainable Habitat cluster in Portugal held last March 21st, its XIV General Assembly, held in the auditorium of Centro Tecnológico da Cerâmica e do Vidro, where CERTIF was present in its capacity of member.
CERTIF has participated on 11st and 12nd March in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, in a plenary meeting of “SKN - Solar Keymark Network", which presents itself as the European certification scheme for Solar Thermal Products. As usual, there were approached formal matters arising from the application of general rules of certification scheme, as well as technical issues related to the harmonization of information in the certificates, clarification of test methods and harmonization of methodologies in conducting audits to the manufacturer .
Last February 11, 2014, CERTIF attended the meeting "SG17-Structural Metal Products" for Notified Bodies under the CPR (Regulation of Construction Products EU/305/2011). 
CTCV - Technological Center for Ceramics and Glass has just obtained the certification of its vocational training management systems, according to NP 4512.