Chile: New standard for timber durability

 

Chile has published a new standard for timber durability Norma Chilena NCh 789/1 Madera – Parte 1: Durabilidad de la madera.

The notified standard specifies methods for determining and classifying the durability of timber and timber products when exposed to biotic degradation agents. The specified methods may be applied to timber and timber products, including heat-treated timber, impregnated timber, surface-treated timber and modified timbers. The biotic degradation agents covered under this standard are as follows:

– Wood-destroying fungi (basidiomycetes and soft-rot fungi);

– Wood-destroying insects (termites and coleoptera);

– Marine xylophages.

In the event that there is no information on the durability of a given species, the final decision regarding its use for any particular purpose should be made by a specialist, taking into account the presence of biodegradation agents, the risks, the environmental conditions and other conditions that may arise. Timber used as construction material should be protected and maintained with products that prevent the action of biodegradation agents, based on the durability level established in the notified standard. Accordingly, timber classed as non-durable should be preserved, and timber of a medium durability should be treated with protective products depending on the circumstances and the specific biodegradation agent. The background information provided in Annex A (informative) is based on the information available to, and the experience of, the members of the Technical Committee. The tests and other specifications contained in this standard must be complied with when classifying the durability of timber or timber products.

To find out more about compliance for timber and wood products, please contact the Product Compliance Institute directly.