RSA wants exhausts manufactured to “E” standards
The Road Safety Authority (RSA) is proposing that exhaust system, brake linings and towing couplings placed on the market are manufactured to Original Equipment specifications, or that they are approved replacements to EC or UNECE standards, that is “e” or “E” marked.
Earlier this year, the RSA invited stakeholders including those involved in the manufacture and distribution of vehicle components, road users and other members of the public to make submissions on its proposals.
The RSA points out that throughout a vehicle’s life, various components will require replacing due to either wear or accidental damage. For safety, reliability and environmental reasons, it is important that these replacements are fit for purpose and are manufactured to acceptable standards.
The RSA says that the current system for controlling the standard of components, particularly those for vehicles not originally manufactured for the European market, needs to be revised with a view to providing additional clarity on the specific requirements in legislation.
Initially the RSA proposes reviewing the regulations on the supply, sale and fitment of certain safety and environmentally critical components, including exhausts,brake linings and couplings.
The consultation closed on March 2 and the RSA is currently collating the responses received with a view to making recommendations to the Minister.