In the construction sector, concrete blocks are widely used due to their high durability, good load-bearing capacity, and reasonable cost. However, to ensure construction quality and user safety, concrete block products circulating on the market must be strictly controlled in terms of quality.

To meet this requirement, the Ministry of Construction has issued QCVN 16:2023/BXD – National Technical Regulation on Construction Material Products and Goods, under which concrete blocks belong to the category of products that must obtain conformity certification before being placed on the market. Certification is not only a legal requirement but also helps enterprises build credibility and gain customer trust.

So, how is the certification process for concrete blocks under QCVN 16 implemented? Let us explore the details together with the Institute for Standard and Quality Development Studies (ISSQ).

What is Concrete block?

Concrete blocks are masonry materials produced from a mixture of cement, sand, stone dust, and water. They are molded and bonded by compaction or hydraulic pressing rather than firing like traditional bricks. Thanks to their strength and durability, concrete blocks are increasingly applied in various construction works such as boundary walls, partition walls, load-bearing walls, residential houses, factories, warehouses, fences, and retaining walls.

Depending on design requirements, concrete blocks can be manufactured as solid or hollow blocks to optimize weight as well as sound and thermal insulation.

As materials directly affecting the durability, safety, and lifespan of construction works, substandard concrete blocks may cause risks such as:

• Cracking, subsidence, and water leakage in walls

• Poor load-bearing capacity leading to safety hazards

• Dimensional deviations causing construction difficulties

• Inconsistent quality reducing service life of structures

Therefore, QCVN 16:2023/BXD requires concrete blocks to obtain conformity certification before market circulation.

What is QCVN 16?

QCVN 16 is the National Technical Regulation on construction material products and goods issued by the Ministry of Construction. It specifies technical limits and management requirements for Group 2 construction material products and goods that, even when transported, stored, preserved, and used properly, may still pose potential risks to humans, animals, plants, property, and the environment.

The regulation does not apply to imported construction materials used as advertising samples without use value; research samples; testing samples; or temporarily imported goods for display at exhibitions and trade fairs.

Which enterprises need conformity certification for concrete blocks under QCVN 16?

The regulation applies to organizations and individuals involved in the production, management, and circulation of construction materials, including:

• Organizations and individuals producing, importing, trading, or using construction material products and goods

• Testing laboratories and certification bodies conducting conformity assessment and certification

• Relevant state management authorities responsible for product and goods quality

Conformity assessment methods for concrete blocks

Conformity certification under QCVN 16:2023/BXD is carried out through three assessment methods:

Method 1: Testing of typical samples

• Certificate validity: not exceeding 01 year

• Applicable to specific product types sampled for testing

• Applied to imported construction materials when:

  • The foreign manufacturer holds a valid ISO 9001 quality management system certificate relevant to construction material production

  • Surveillance is conducted through sample testing for each import batch

Method 5: Testing of typical samples combined with assessment of the production process

• Certificate validity: not exceeding 03 years

• Annual surveillance through testing of samples taken at the production site or on the market combined with production process assessment

• Applicable to products manufactured by domestic or foreign facilities maintaining a quality management system to ensure stable product quality

Method 7: Testing and assessment of product batches

• Certificate validity applies only to the assessed batch of products

Certification process for concrete blocks

To ensure lawful market circulation and compliance with QCVN 16:2023/BXD, enterprises must follow a clear certification process:

1. Receiving the certification registration dossier

2. Signing the scientific and technological service contract

3. Conducting surveys and assessments

4. Completing documentation after assessment

5. Appraisal and issuance of the certificate (if compliant)

6. Periodic surveillance assessment (not exceeding once every 12 months)

7. Re-certification after a 3-year cycle

Benefits of obtaining conformity certification

Conformity certification brings practical value to enterprises:

• Ensures legal compliance and reduces risks

• Improves product quality and safety

• Enhances competitiveness in bidding and distribution

• Builds trust with customers and partners

• Supports market expansion and export opportunities

• Contributes to environmental protection and community safety

Conformity certification of concrete blocks under QCVN 16 is an important step in ensuring the quality and safety of construction works. Enterprises that comply not only meet legal requirements but also enhance reputation, competitiveness, and market opportunities.

For certification services, please contact ISSQ via hotline: (+84) 981 851 111 or email vienchatluong@issq.org.vn | tcvn@issq.org.vn.

Published date: 12/12/2025