
Later this year, Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association (BHMA) plans to release Product Category Rules (PCRs). The group has incorporated industry input in developing environmental testing standards.
A PCR is a set of rules, requirements, and guidelines for creating resources such as Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs). PCRs are used to standardize the information used for developing specific products’ EPDs. BHMA’s first PCRs in development focus on automatic doors and gates, revolving doors, locks, and fittings.
The PCR drafts were posted for public comment to generate feedback while creating the uniform standards.
“In order to make sure we have the most comprehensive program possible, we wanted to open this up for discussion within the industry,” the group’s executive director Ralph Vasami said.
EPDs are becoming more commonplace in the construction industry as designers and specifiers require more information about the environmental impact of specified products.
The current versions are available on the group’s website, www.buildershardware.com.