The certification for lighting structures consists of two separate stages. In the first phase, certification applicants must implement a documentation system based on ISO 9001. In addition, it must monitor the product and the measurement equipment as stipulated in the certification regulations.
First, the manufacturer will be requested to present the calculation hypotheses of the sections of the lighting structures that are to be certified in order to verify that they comply with the structural loads for which they have been designed.
After satisfactorily completing the validation of the design, AENOR's Technical Services visit the production facility to verify that it meets the requirements of the certification document. Samples will be taken of the different types of steel used to manufacture the lighting structures, which are then sent for testing at one of the laboratories accredited by ENAC, which collaborates with AENOR in the certification process.
In addition, the access doors to the mains are checked to ensure that they comply with the minimum protection requirements in the Low-Voltage Electrotechnical Regulations.
After receiving all the test results, ANFALUM, which acts as Secretary of the Technical Certification Committee, presents a confidential report of the activities, which is then assessed by the Committee.
If the decision is satisfactory, AENOR will be recommended to grant the certificate. Alternatively, the applicant will be informed of the reasons for refusal and specific complementary activities that need to be carried out.
After issuance of the certificate, the company progresses to the certification monitoring phase. During this phase, AENOR's services make annual visits to the production facilities to confirm that the criteria and requirements established in the certification regulations are being applied and maintained. During these visits, dimensional checks will be performed of the structures available in the manufacturer's warehouse, and samples will be taken on a rotational basis of the metal sheets used in the manufacturing process, for subsequent testing in the accredited laboratory.
Each year, the Secretariat prepares a report of all activities carried out, and presents it to the Committee. On seeing the results, the Committee decides whether the certificate can be upheld, or whether extraordinary actions need to take place.