New Kitemark scheme from BSI increases confidence over safety of commercial appliances and reduces risk of fire

Press release - 19 July 2011

Against a backdrop of product recalls and counterfeit goods, the British Standards Institution (BSI) today announces the launch of a new BSI Kitemark® scheme for commercial catering appliances.

The BSI Kitemark™, the UK’s premier symbol of quality and reassurance, will now be awarded to commercial catering appliances that meet the grade, giving manufacturers of gas and electrical appliance products, installers and purchasers of commercial appliances confidence in safe and fit-for-purpose appliances.

Exclusive to BSI, Kitemark is a voluntary certification mark that shows a product or service meets the applicable and appropriate British, European or international other recognised standard for quality, safety and performance. With increasing concerns over safety, there is a rising demand for safer appliances which have been independently and annually tested to ensure they are safe and reliable. The Kitemark provides this reassurance and allows manufacturers to differentiate their products in a highly competitive marketplace.

“By extending its portfolio of Kitemark schemes to commercial as well as domestic products, BSI is helping appliance manufacturers gain a competitive edge in the marketplace and reduce the likelihood of injury arising from faults and misuse of commercial goods,” said Graham McKay, Head of Service Delivery, Testing Services at BSI.

“Our Kitemark schemes are developed in line with industry and market demand. Since BSI already offers a number of Kitemark schemes for domestic appliances (including cooking, refrigeration, washing, drying and heating), it was only natural that these should be adapted and written for the commercial appliance environment,” he said.

BSI is the leading supplier of certification services for domestic and commercial appliances in the UK and is one of the top 3 in Europe. The dedicated test facilities provide one of the most comprehensive testing and certification services worldwide as well as having some of the most experienced and knowledgeable staff.

Find out more about the internationally recognized BSI Kitemark™ for appliances

About BSI

BSI (British Standards Institution) is a global organization that equips businesses with the necessary solutions to turn standards of best practice into habits of excellence. Formed in 1901, BSI was the world’s first National Standards Body and a founding member of the International Organization for Standardization (ISO).

Over a century later it continues to facilitate business improvement across the globe by helping its clients drive performance, reduce risk and grow sustainably through the adoption of international management systems standards, many of which BSI originated. Famed for its marks of excellence including the instantly recognizable Kitemark®, BSI’s influence spans multiple sectors including aerospace, construction, energy, engineering, finance, healthcare, IT and retail. With over 70,000 clients in 150 countries, BSI is an organization whose standards inspire excellence across the globe.

Find out more about BSI >