From 10 June 2016, the EU Construction Products Regulation (CPR) has applied to all cables and wiring products for permanent installation in buildings. Cables are classified into European fire classes depending on their fire behaviour. Cables and wiring products with functional integrity are excepted from compliance with the CPR.

Since 1 July 2017, CE marking has been mandatory for cables and wiring products subject to the CPR. In addition, manufacturers of products subject to the CPR – i.e. cables and wiring products for permanent installation – must now produce and publish a “declaration of performance”. Cables and wiring products placed on the market before 1 July (stock lots) may continue to be sold without this marking.

Where cables and wiring products are concerned, the provisions of the CPR apply solely to fire behaviour. Other requirements addressing electrical and mechanical safety are unaffected and remain in force. At present EU countries do not specify the fire classes of cables to be used. In Germany, “normally flammable cables” are generally required, equivalent to class Eca or higher.