RETROFIT SWITZERLAND
Switzerland is the prime example for reducing particles emitted by Diesel engines. Numerous laws starting in 1983 contain emissions reduction. The Swiss Accident Insurance Fund (SUVA = Schweizerische Unfallversicherungsanstalt) was the first in publishing that Diesel soot is carcinogenic. Therefore, emission limits have been introduced.
During the VERT project between 1994 and 1999 particulate filter systems have been tested for the ability to retrofit even the most demanding applications in construction machinery. A test procedure has been created according to VERT, which is still an internationally accepted standard for Diesel particulate filters.
In Switzerland only VERT approved filter systems are allowed to be sold. The operation of vehicles underground is regulated by SUVA, for the use of particulate filters on construction sites the Federal Office for Environment with its Clean Air Act of 1992 is in charge. According to this, the construction sites are divided into small and middle groups (A construction sites) or large ( B construction sites). All vehicles on B construction sites must be equipped with a particulate filter system.
Since January 2009 uniform limitations for soot emissions are valid for equipment on all construction sites in Switzerland. The federal council has passed a change of the Clean Air Act. The following regulations are valid for different engine classes and year of manufacture.
