EMICODE? I’ve heard of that...

What is EMICODE?

EMICODE is a globally recognised classification system that assess the emission properties of construction products such as adhesives, sealants, primers and putties. The goal of EMICODE is to improve the quality of indoor air by labelling products that are particularly low-emission. The system was developed by the Institut für Bautechnik (GEV), an independent organisation that specialises in the testing and certification of construction products.

Why is EMICODE important?

We spend up to 90 % of our time indoors. Harmful substances that are released by construction materials and products can negatively impact the room air quality and cause health complaints such as headaches, allergies or respiratory diseases. EMICODE offers consumers, tradesmen and planners a reliable orientation aid for selecting products that do not pollute room air.

The EMICODE classes

Products are divided into three main classes in the EMICODE system according to their emission behaviour:

1. EMICODE EC1^PLUS – very low emission (premium class):
   These products meet the strictest requirements and are particularly suited for sensitive areas such as children’s rooms, hospitals or schools.
2. EMICODE EC1 – very low emission:
   These products also offer a high standard, but with slightly higher emissions than EC1^PLUS products.
3. EMICODE EC2 – low emission:
   Products of this class have higher emissions but still meet the basic requirements for low-emission materials.

Products that do not meet the EMICODE standards are not certified.

How does certification take place?

The certification of a product according to EMICODE occurs through independent laboratories that test the product for volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other harmful substances. The emission behaviour is simulated here under realistic conditions. Only products that meet the strict requirements receive the EMICODE label.

The validity of the certification is checked regularly. Manufacturers are obligated to allow annual sampling to ensure that the product continues to meet the requirements.

Advantages of EMICODE for consumers and manufacturers

Advantages for consumers:

• Health protection: Consumers can be certain that certified products only emit minimal harmful substances.
• Orientation aid: The label makes it easier to select environmentally friendly and healthy products.
• Transparency: The independent test guarantees high reliability of the specifications.

Advantages for manufacturers:

• Trust: An EMICODE certificate strengthens the customer’s trust in the brand.
• Market advantages: An increasing number of construction projects require the use of low-emission products.
• Sustainability: Manufacturers that offer EMICODE-certified products make an active contribution to improving room air quality.

(This article is computer generated.)