ETAG 034 Edition July 2011 GUIDELINE FOR EUROPEAN ...

The installed kits shall be stable to the combined stresses generated by normal loads such asintrinsic weight, temperature, humidity and shrinkage, as well as movements of the substrate,direct impacts and wind forces (pressure and suction).This means that for ER 4, the following products characteristics have to be assessed for the kitand/or its components:Effect of intrinsic weightThe kit shall support itself without harmful deformation.Impact resistanceThe kit shall be designed so that it retains its properties under the effect of impacts caused bynormal traffic and normal use. Its performance shall be such that the effect of normal accidentalor deliberately caused unexceptional impact does not cause damage which results in injury topersons e.g. dangerous cutting edges or the falling of objects forming part of the works uponusers. Damage caused by impacts shall not result in the kit failing to continue to satisfy any of theother relevant Essential Requirements, e.g. damage resulting in water penetration compromisingER 3.Shatter propertiesCladding products shall not, in the event of breakage, present sharp or cutting edges. Theirsurface shall not cause bodily injury, either for the occupants or for people nearby.Horizontal point loadsUnless the manufacturer, in his installation and maintenance information, specifically excludes it,it shall be possible to lean standard maintenance equipment against the kit, without causingdamage which results in injury to persons e.g. dangerous cutting edges or the falling of objectsforming part of the works upon users or which results in the kit failing to continue to satisfy any ofthe other relevant Essential Requirements, e.g. damage resulting in water penetrationcompromising ER 3.Effect of the wind actionThe kit shall exhibit appropriate mechanical resistance to the forces of pressure, suction andvibration, due to wind.Effect of seismic actionsWhen applicable, relevant Eurocodes, European and/or national regulations shall be taken intoaccount.Behaviour under hygrothermal variationsThe external cladding shall withstand movements due to humidity and temperature variationsexcept at structural joins where special precautions have to be taken.ETAG 03424