In the flooring industry, currently, many floor products are certified with FloorScore. FloorScore is the most well-known indoor air quality certification for flooring materials, attachments and underlayments, developed by CSC and RFCI.
- Benefits of FloorScore certificate
SPC floor suppliers will gain these benefits with FloorScore certificate:
- Qualify for: LEED v4, WELL Building Standard, BREEAM International, BREEAM UK, Collaborative for High Performance Schools (CHPS), Green Globes, Green Guide for Health Care 2.2, etc.
- Meet EPA ecolabel and GSA procurement requirements
- Create safe indoor environment for customers
- Be able to bring your products to schools and health care facilities (California 01350)
- Find unique selling point for your products
- Acknowledge about product improvements
- Satisfy supply chain specifications
- Test process
To obtain the FloorScore certificate, every product needs to go through an 8-step testing procedure. We have briefly described as below:
First, the client submits an application to SCS, which provides a proposal. Once agreed upon, an account manager is assigned. After that, an auditor gathers product data and quality documents. An onsite audit is accordingly scheduled. Next, the auditor visits the client’s site to observe operations and collect a product sample for testing. The product is tested in an SCS-approved lab for emissions, typically taking 3-4 weeks. The auditor later on will report findings, and the client addresses any issues. The auditor prepares a detailed report for SCS to review, grant certification and list the client in the Green Products Guide. Annual reviews and possible renewal testing are required to maintain certification.
Timeline: The process usually takes about three months, depending on the audit schedule.
- Why is it important for floor suppliers to have their products certified with FloorScore?
- Market Credibility and Trust: FloorScore certification is widely recognized in the industry, signaling that the product meets strict indoor air quality (IAQ) standards. This builds trust with customers, architects, and designers who prioritize health and safety.
- Compliance with Regulations: Many building codes and regulations require flooring products to meet specific IAQ standards. FloorScore certification ensures compliance, making it easier for suppliers to sell their products in various markets.
- Access to LEED Credits: FloorScore-certified products contribute to LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) credits, making them attractive to environmentally conscious buyers and projects seeking green building certifications.
- Competitive Advantage: Certification distinguishes a supplier’s products from non-certified competitors, providing a marketing edge in a crowded marketplace.
- Consumer Confidence: As awareness of health and environmental issues grows, consumers are increasingly seeking products with third-party certifications like FloorScore. This can lead to increased sales and customer loyalty.
- Global Recognition: FloorScore is internationally recognized, helping suppliers expand their reach into global markets that prioritize IAQ and sustainability.
