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Business consultancy WLP is warning Peterborough’s construction industry to act now to ensure it meets the 1st July 2014 deadline of mandatory CE Marking for fabricated structural steel products, one of the most significant changes for the industry in a decade.
WLP’s business consultant Julian Blackmore, who is heading up WLP’s CE Marking projects
CE Marking demonstrates a product meets EU safety, health or environmental requirements and is an increasingly familiar sight as it applies to a wide range of products, from toys and household refrigerators and freezers, to pyrotechnics and machinery. The July deadline affects businesses in the local area involved with a wide range of products, from roller blinds to roof trusses and joists.
Regional business consultancy WLP has recently seen a surge in demand for its services which support businesses with CE Marking as the deadline approaches. However it is concerned that many businesses are still unprepared for the changes and may lose out on business as a result, or face restrictions on trading, a fine or imprisonment if they do not comply in time.
Julian Blackmore, consultant at WLP who is heading up CE Marking projects, said: “CE Marking can be a complex, time-consuming and daunting process and there seems to be a lot of confusion and mis-information around. We have found that whilst some affected companies are being proactive about the changes, others are either not aware of the legislation, or are burying their heads in the sand because the changes are a huge administrative burden which they may lack the time or expertise to manage.
“This legislation has important and wide-ranging implications so I would urge anyone who thinks they may be affected to start looking at the issue immediately. WLP has a strong track record in helping companies become compliant with CE Marking and can help businesses navigate this legal minefield to achieve and maintain compliance efficiently.”
WLP’s consultants have completed CE Marking projects for a range of companies and are currently working with several affected by the legislation such as Peterborough-based Multifab Metals Engineering Ltd, an innovative steel fabricator.
WLP can help businesses identify precisely which standards and requirements are applicable, ascertain to what extent the company is already compliant and what additional work needs to be done, then support in self-declaration or independent testing and certification. Businesses may be able to seek grant funding towards WLP’s services via the Manufacturing Advisory Service – see www.mymas.org for more information.
WLP has a track record of transforming businesses for over 25 years. Its administrative hub is in Norfolk with consultants based across East Anglia and the East Midlands. The company specialises in the growth and improvement of small and medium-sized businesses and public sector organisations, primarily in East Anglia and the East Midlands, but also throughout the UK.
For more information about WLP and how its consultants can help with CE Marking please visit www.w-l-p.co.uk/cemarking or call 0845 3380228.
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Notes to editors
For media enquiries and to interview a WLP spokesperson please contact Christina Lister, PR and communications consultant, on 07968 438273 or email comms@christinalister.co.uk.
About WLP
WLP is a UK business consultancy service based in Watton, Norfolk set up in 1988. The team of 13 experienced business consultants specialises in the growth and improvement of small and medium-sized businesses and public sector organisations, primarily in East Anglia, the East Midlands and North London, but most importantly wherever their clients need them. WLP offers a range of services from business planning and non-execs through business and manufacturing performance improvement to systems, HR and health safety and environmental improvement.