CCRR AND NON-CCRR EXPLAINED

What is CCRR and non-CCRR?

Simply pu, CCRR is a report showing that a product "meets" building code. Non-CCRR railings do not have this report available. A more complete explanation follows.

What is the advantage of CCRR?

Code officials sometimes require proof that a proposed product will comply with building code requirements. A CCRR report typically contains all the information the official needs to ensure compliance.

Are Superior non-CCRR railings built differently than CCRR-backed railings?

No, physically they are the same. They are built with the same materials and processes.

Why are CCRR-backed railings more expensive?

Manufacturing CCRR-compliant railings requires extensive inspections and recordkeeping. Non-CCRR railings bypass these extra steps and the savings are passed on to you.

When can I use non-CCRR railings?

There's no one-size-fits-all answer as every project is different. A discussion with the relevant code officials and project designers may be beneficial when deciding which product to purchase.

The following information has been adapted from an Intertek white paper. (Intertek evaluates products.) It's a more complete explanation of CCRR reports.

What is a Code Compliance Research Report?

A CCRR is a technical report prepared by Intertek summarizing our review of a manufacturer’s data demonstrating code compliance of their product or system. CCRRs address compliance with the code and not just a single code-referenced standard.

What are the requirements for a Research Report?

• Issued by an agency accredited under ISO/IEC 17065.
• Identify that it is based on code requirements or a normative standard such as an ICC-ES acceptance criteria.
• Document that the product has been tested and shown to comply with the standards required by the code.
• Ensure products are under a regular surveillance inspection program to maintain compliance.
• Identify enforceable conditions and limitations for proper field installation.
• Specify labeling requirements for field identification.

How does Intertek issue a Research Report?

To issue a CCRR, manufacturers submit data for their product or system to Intertek for review against the requirements of an acceptance criteria or model building codes. The review includes an evaluation of the manufacturing and quality systems for the product. If the review confirms compliance, then the CCRR is issued.

What goes into a CCRR?

• Testing from ISO/IEC 17025 accredited laboratories.
• Surveillance inspections from ISO/IEC 17020 accredited inspection bodies.
• Data review by experienced engineers and architects separate from testing staff.
• Requirements based on code or an established normative standard.
• Industry-standard report format.
• Issued under the supervision of a licensed engineer.

When is a CCRR needed?

CCRRs assist code officials in approving products and systems when they are alternatives under the code (typically, Section 104.11 of the IBC and IRC). They also help consolidate multiple compliance requirements into one document, identifying critical elements necessary for meeting code standards.