This page outlines the scope, verification, and client benefits associated with our compliance and certification to the BS EN 13438:2013 standard. This standard governs the requirements for organic powder coatings applied to steel products used in fencing, road, and street furniture applications.
BS EN 13438:2013 is the current European standard that specifies the requirements and test methods for factory-applied organic powder coatings on hot-dip galvanized or sherardized steel products used for fencing, road traffic barriers, street furniture, and similar applications.
This standard is critical because it defines the performance criteria necessary for coatings to provide adequate durability, corrosion protection, and aesthetic stability when exposed to external environments and mechanical stresses common to road and urban infrastructure. Adherence ensures the finished product achieves a high level of protection and longevity over its expected service life.
Our certification under BS EN 13438:2013 specifically covers the application and quality control of organic powder coatings on steel components that have been previously protected by galvanizing or sherardizing.
The scope of our accreditation ensures compliance across the entire finishing process:
Substrate Requirement: Verification that the steel substrate has a suitable metallic protective layer (e.g., hot-dip galvanizing per EN ISO 1461) to achieve the necessary duplex system performance.
Pre-treatment Processes: Confirmation that the intermediate layer preparation (e.g., etching, degreasing, or chemical conversion) is properly executed to ensure optimal adhesion between the metallic layer and the powder coating.
Coating Application: Assuring the powder coating is applied uniformly and cured correctly, confirming the dry film thickness meets the specified minimum requirements.
Corrosion System Performance: Certification that the final coating system (metallic base coat + organic topcoat) meets the standard’s rigorous requirements for long-term corrosion resistance.
To achieve and maintain full compliance with BS EN 13438:2013, our products undergo a series of stringent laboratory tests to confirm the properties and performance of the duplex coating system.
Choosing our products certified to BS EN 13438:2013 provides critical assurance for infrastructure and fencing projects:
Superior Corrosion Protection: You benefit from a proven Duplex System (galvanizing plus powder coating), which is independently tested to offer significantly greater corrosion protection and extended service life compared to a single-layer finish.
Assured Durability: The comprehensive testing ensures the coating can withstand the impacts and mechanical stresses typically encountered by fencing and road equipment, maintaining its protective barrier.
Visual Consistency and Longevity: Certification guarantees that the finish will retain its intended colour and gloss when exposed to UV light and weathering, keeping assets looking better for longer.
Compliance for Public Sector Work: The standard is frequently cited in tender specifications for public infrastructure, highway, and local authority projects, ensuring seamless compliance and acceptance.