Sichenia has obtained an eight-character abbreviation on some of its products that summarizes their technical characteristics and potential uses. This is the UPEC classification, and it consists of the letters U, P, E, and C, each followed by a number (e.g., U4P4E3C2).
UPEC certification is a quality mark issued by the French institute CSTB.
It is a classification system that makes it easy to know the most appropriate uses for each product and to compare products with each other from the point of view of technical performance. It is applicable to all flooring products and not specific to ceramic products.
The logic of operation of the UPEC system is very simple. Surfaces are classified on the basis of the stresses to which they are expected to be subjected during their normal use, with respect to four basic indicators:
Indicates the level of abrasion of the surface or even the change in appearance of the surface itself. The U index ranges from 2 (min. stress) to 4.
Stress from stationary or moving objects on or falling on the floor. P ranges from a minimum of 2 (min. stress) to a maximum of 4s.
Indicates the presence of water on the floor, particularly in relation to the floor cleaning system. Ranges from a minimum of 1 to a maximum of 3.
Indicates the possibility and intensity of presence of chemicals that may attack the floor and leave permanent stains. Ranges from a minimum of 0 (lowest risk) to 2 (exceptionally 3 for special rooms, such as certain laboratories).
The high indices obtained on the basis of the high resistance of Sichenia floors recognize their suitability as first-rate products in relation to their intended use in residential and commercial areas.
To see the updated list of UPEC certificates of Sichenia collections, visit the CSTB website.
