The Engineered Wood Products Association of Australasia (EWPAA) has raised alarms about the increasing use of non-conforming and incorrectly branded timber products, particularly in the form of engineered wood products (EWP), being imported into Australia.
In their recent report titled ‘Non-Conforming Timber Products Update 2024,’ the EWPAA highlighted the significant risks associated with the use of non-conforming EWP, such as laminated veneer lumber (LVL), in various building applications.
The report emphasises the importance of builders, retailers, and consumers being vigilant and exercising due diligence when it comes to product claims and branding.
EWPAA CEO Gavin Matthew acknowledged that while the majority of the industry adheres to standards, a worrying amount of timber products not meeting Australian standards or demonstrating suitability evidence are still entering the market.
Matthew stated: “Products that are incorrectly labelled or not fit-for-purpose are entering the supply chain, which is concerning as non-conforming products represent significant safety risks for builders, consumers, and the industry as a whole.”
The EWPAA’s call to action includes urging stakeholders to commit to using only conforming and fit-for-purpose products, emphasising the importance of asking the right questions and undertaking due diligence on product claims, branding, and product information.
The Non-Conforming Timber Products Update 2024 report is available for download, providing crucial information for stakeholders in the construction industry to make informed decisions about the use of engineered wood products in Australia.
