Introduction: A Changing Landscape for Resin-Bound Contractors
In an industry as dynamic as resin-bound flooring, staying ahead of the curve isn’t just about mastering your craft—it’s about adapting to change. From innovative techniques to new regulations, a contractor's toolkit extends beyond the physical tools. As we approach a significant shift in regulations, it's vital for professionals like you to stay informed. And this forthcoming change? It centres on the REACH regulation concerning diisocyanates—a component found in products you might be using right now.
Deciphering the REACH Regulation: What Contractors Need to Know
The REACH regulation, an acronym for Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of Chemicals, isn’t just a series of bureaucratic steps. Representing Regulation (EC) No. 1907/2006, it's the European Union's strategic approach to ensure that chemicals are managed in a way that protects both human health and the environment.
But why does this matter to you?
On 4 August 2020, a new chapter was added to this regulation, one that directly impacts the resin industry. Diisocyanates, substances that can cause respiratory and skin sensitisation, have come under scrutiny. Any product with more than 0.1% monomeric diisocyanates will now require users to undergo specialised training. By 24 August 2023, if you're working with such products—including Exo Supplies resin—you’ll need to have completed this training. It's not just about compliance; it's about ensuring the safety of everyone involved, from the contractor laying the resin to the individuals walking on the finished floor.
Book your training here: https://www.safeusediisocyanates.eu/
Why Regulation Matters: Beyond Compliance to Trust
In a field where reputation is paramount, regulations might feel like hoops to jump through. But consider this: they are more than just rules. Regulations are a reflection of industry standards, a testament to quality, and a way to differentiate professionals from the rest.
Every contractor knows the challenges of distinguishing high-quality resin from the sea of available options. This is where entities like the British Board of Agrément (BBA) step in. Renowned for its rigorous testing procedures, the BBA doesn’t just approve any product. To earn their seal means that a product has been put to the test, ensuring its consistent performance and adherence to the highest standards. As we'll explore in upcoming sections, Exo Supplies' resin isn't just another product—it carries the BBA seal, promising not only reliability but also unmatched quality.
The Gold Standard: BBA Approval and Its Significance
The construction and landscaping industries are flooded with products and materials. But among these myriad options, only a few stand out as the true gold standard—and BBA Approved products are at the pinnacle of this elite group.
The British Board of Agrément (BBA) isn’t merely a regulatory body; it is globally recognised for setting the highest benchmarks in testing and quality assurance. When a product is BBA Approved, it signifies that it has weathered the most stringent testing environments. It ensures that contractors are equipped with products that deliver consistent performance, meeting—and often exceeding—industry standards.
For resin contractors, in particular, this is of paramount importance. The volatile British weather, with its extreme summers and biting winters, requires resin products that can withstand these fluctuations. A BBA Approved Resin is more than just a guarantee—it's a symbol of resilience, consistency, and impeccable results.
Exo Supplies' Commitment: Delivering Excellence with BBA-Approved Resin
Over the past decade, Exo Supplies has carved a niche for itself, not just as a supplier but as a beacon of reliability in the resin industry. The BBA Approved Resin from Exo Supplies isn’t merely a component—it’s the bedrock of countless successful projects, forming the foundation for durable and impressive finishes.
The Leeson ICP BBA Approved UV Resistant Resin Bound System, for instance, is a testament to Exo Supplies' dedication to quality. This solvent-free, two-part aliphatic polyurethane kit has been crafted specifically for creating light-stable aggregate flooring. Whether it's driveways or patios, footpaths or parks, this resin system binds a wide range of dried aggregates, ensuring a flawless finish every single time.
Moreover, with the recommended mix design and the use of an accelerator/catalyst, contractors can be assured of even, consistent curing, even in temperatures below 15°C.
Beyond Product Excellence: The Tangible Benefits of Leeson ICP Resins
While the BBA approval is an impressive badge of honour, what truly sets the Leeson ICP Resins apart are their tangible benefits:
- UV Resistance: Leeson ICP resins are aliphatic and UV resistant, ensuring that they won’t discolour or degrade over time.
- BBA Approval: Every tub of Leeson ICP resin carries the trust and quality assurance of BBA approval.
- User-Friendly: The two-part tub design makes it simple for contractors to mix and apply, reducing room for error.
- Colour Retention: Especially when using light-coloured aggregates, Leeson ICP Resin Bound UVR resin ensures the flooring system retains its colour and vibrancy.
- Consistent workability : Having a resin that works and reacts consistently from month to month and year to year is paramount to getting the best finish. The addition of extra catalyst will help keep this consistency during the times of year where temperatures are lower and ensuring the contractor is fully in control.
- Heavy Foot Traffic Ready: Within just 24 hours, the finished surface is ready to withstand heavy foot traffic—a testament to its robust formulation.
At the heart of every successful project lies a combination of craftsmanship and quality materials. With Leeson ICP Resins from Exo Supplies, contractors are not only meeting but surpassing client expectations, fortifying their reputations in the process.
In Conclusion: The Road Ahead for Resin Contractors
As the resin industry steers into a new era of regulations and innovations, the journey ahead is promising. With the dual arsenal of BBA approved products like the ones Exo Supplies proudly offers and the requisite training to navigate the REACH regulations, contractors are poised for success.
Remember, every layer of resin you lay is more than just a surface—it's a commitment to quality, safety, and excellence. In partnering with trusted suppliers like Exo Supplies and staying abreast of industry regulations, contractors aren't just building surfaces; they're crafting legacies.
Choose wisely, train regularly, and let the golden standards of BBA and REACH guide you towards a brighter, safer future in the resin industry.