With the International Building Expo concluding today after four-days under the theme “The Road to Success: Guyana 2030 and Beyond”, it is an opportune time to shine the spotlight on a key construction material used primarily for plumbing, Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Pipes.
Whether for plumbing, irrigation, or industrial use, PVC pipes are hidden lifelines in homes, businesses, and large-scale projects. But here is a big question for users: How can you be sure the PVC pipes you buy are strong, durable, and safe? The Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) plays a critical role in ensuring the manufacture and sale of quality PVC pipes through testing and certification.
Locally, there are two major manufacturers of PVC Pipes; Plastic Products Limited (Gafoors) and Guyana Thermoplastics Ltd. (Toolsie Persaud Group of Companies), and both produce pipes that meet the requirements of National Standards: GYS 107:2021 – Specification for pressure-rated PVC pipes (SDR series) andGYS 99:2021 – Specification for PVC pipes Schedules 40, 80, and 120. These pipes are also certified by the GNBS under its Product Certification Programme, which proves that they are of a quality that satisfies consumer expectations.
The GYS 107 covers PVC pipes made in standard thermoplastic pipe dimension ratios and pressure rated for water. This standard covers requirements, which include those for materials, tests methods, workmanship, dimensions and burst pressure. The GYS 99 also covers these requirements, but it is specific to PVC pipes made in Schedule 40, 80, 120 sizes and are pressure rated for water.
But why does conformance to these standards and certification matter? Well, poorly manufactured or installed pipes can lead to costly repairs, water loss, and even safety hazards. By purchasing certified pipes, builders are assured that they were tested for strength, durability, and conformance to requirements. Additionally, under the GNBS Certification programme, manufacturers undergo annual recertification, including audits and testing, to ensure continued conformance. The GNBS acts as an independent third party, granting certified companies the right to affix the National Standards Mark, a trusted seal of quality for local and international markets.
Beyond PVC pipes, GNBS also certifies other construction related products including concrete hollow blocks and bathtubs and fibreglass shower units.
Whether you are a supplier, contractor or homeowner, always choose quality for long lasting construction; purchase GNBS certified products which you can trust.
For more information, contact GNBS on 219-0064/65, WhatsApp: 692-4627, or visit www.gnbsgy.org.
