What is a standard statement?

In the complex world of engineering and construction, it is important to observe safety and quality standards. To ensure that your projects meet the safety requirements, draw up a standard statement.

We'll explain what it is and what it can do for you.

What is a standard statement?

Before we delve deeper into the interests of an opnorm statement, it is important to mention exactly what an opnorm statement means. An on-standards statement, also known as a “by standard” statement, is a document that confirms that your project meets the standards and requirements set by the regulatory authorities. With this statement, we ensure that all our projects are of good quality, safe and reliable.

Why is an open-standards statement important?

We cannot emphasize enough how important it is to have an open-standards statement drawn up. This guarantees the safety of all parties involved in the project.

In earthquake sensitive areas such as Groningen, the standard statement is used to provide residents, contractors and government agencies with certainty that the building is resistant to the seismic forces that can occur in the region.

A standard statement in an earthquake sensitive region

For homes in and around an earthquake prone area, it is important to know whether they are able to withstand seismic vibrations without sustaining such damage. If this is not the case, measures will have to be taken such as strengthening the home. At VORM4, we carry out this assessment. We then have these checked by the NCG.

The process of preparing an opnorm statement

The documentation of a standard statement is often quite extensive. To determine whether or not something complies with the standard, various tests, calculations and analyses must be carried out.

Phase 1: Analyzing specific standards and regulations for the project

Before we can start performing the calculations, it is important to know what safety and regulatory requirements must be met. These requirements are often very specific to the project.

Phase 2: Technical Evaluation

We then carry out an extensive technical evaluation on site. We analyse the structure of the building and assess the building materials used for this purpose.

Phase 3: testing and measuring

In this phase, we perform various analyses that assess the building. One of the calculations we perform is the non-linear time domain analysis (NLTHA). This analysis provides a clear overview of whether a building is resistant to an earthquake.

Phase 4: Documentation and Reporting

Once the measurements have been carried out, we collect all test results and inspection reports and summarize them in an expert report. Here we state whether or not the building in question will receive a standardized statement based on our analysis.

Phase 5: External Audit and Approval

We then submit our full report to an external body for review. In the case of a standard statement for any reinforcement measures to a building in an earthquake prone region, this body is the National Coordinator Groningen (NCG). This authority approves our report or requests that any adjustments or reconsiderations be made.

Phase 6: decide whether or not “by norm”

When this external body has made a decision, it is finally established whether the building in question is “up to standard” or not; in the event of an earthquake risk, this means that reinforcement measures must be carried out when a building is not “up to standard”. Residents will be informed about this.

FAQ

What is the purpose of a standard statement?

The purpose of a standardisation statement is to demonstrate whether buildings meet the set safety standards. This is important to guarantee the safety of residents, local residents, and all other parties involved.

Who can request a standardized statement?

Project developers, contractors and building owners can request a standardized statement.

How long does the process take to get an opnorm statement?

The length of the process varies depending on the complexity of the project and the specific requirements that apply, but it can take a few weeks to months.

What happens if a building doesn't meet the standards?

If a building does not meet the standards, it cannot receive a standardized statement; reinforcement measures must be taken first. This can range from structural adjustments to the replacement of certain building materials.

What is the difference between a standard statement and a certificate of completion?

A standard statement confirms that a building meets specific standards, while a certificate of completion shows that a project has been completed in accordance with contractual agreements and specifications.

How often does a standard statement need to be renewed?

As long as no significant changes have been made to the building, a standard statement usually remains valid. However, in the event of changes in legislation or major renovations, it may be necessary to reassess it.

The standard statement is therefore an important document that can be used to determine the safety of a building. At VORM4, we carry out various analyses to draw up a standardized statement. Curious about what we can do for your company? Then contact us.