Introduction of the Eurocode system in the Netherlands
For a smooth introduction of the Eurocode system in the Netherlands the 58 Eurocode parts are divided into three groups with different moments of availability and introduction into the Building Decree of the Netherlands (Bouwbesluit).
After introduction in the Building Decree there will be a certain period in which there will be freedom of choice (coexistence period) between the use of the new Eurocode system and the existing system in the Netherlands consisting of a series of NEN standards for construction (NEN 6700 to NEN 6790). NEN: the Standards organization of the Netherlands will follow the rules of CEN and the European Commission and will withdraw the national NEN standards for construction per ultimo 2010-03-31.
Group 1
Eurocode parts for building construction
For this group the Dutch National Annexes (both in Dutch and in English) are available at NEN (National Annexes for EC7 and EC9 are yet to be expected). Obtaining a building permit with the use of this series of Eurocodes is already possible: in the introduction of every Eurocode part in this series there is a declaration of equivalence with the applicable Netherlands' construction standards from the NEN 6700 series.
The Netherlands' Ministry of Housing published a provisional etition of a new Building Decree in July 2008, in which the Eurocode parts are mentioned. This new Building Decree is expected to be effective per 1st of January 2010.
(Note: The Netherlands' Building Decree does not contain rules for earthquake resistance for buildings or bridges, so Eurocode 8 is not mandatory)
Group 2Eurocode parts for bridge construction
National Annexes for this group of Eurocodes will become available by the end 2008. The date of introduction of these Eurocode parts into the Building Decree is also expected to be effective per 1st of January 2010.
Group 3Eurocode parts for specific constructions
This group contains Eurocode parts for specific constructions like towers, masts, chimneys, tanks, retaining walls and cranes. If needed, National Annexes will be available at the end of 2008. It is not yet certain which Eurocode parts need to be introduced into the Building Code of the Netherlands or into other National laws like safety of labour conditions.
How to order English versions of Netherlands' National Annexes from NEN
For companies and persons outside the Netherlands who want to order National Annexes to the different Eurocode parts (or standards) from NEN the following procedure is applicable (the charge for handling and shipping is within Europe 10%, outside Europe 30%).
- Send your order by e-mail to bestel@nen.nl. Mention as well if you prefer a printed or a PDF version. The right way to indicate a Dutch National Annex is for example: ‘NEN-EN 1990:2002/NB:2007 en'.
- NEN will answer your order with a quotation and different possibilities of payment.
- NEN will send (or in case of PDF mail) your order after reception of your payment.
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