Professional users of anchors and fasteners in concrete are familiar with these symbols: the PGM certification mark and the sprinkler icon. But what exactly is behind them—and why are these markings so important for safe fastening?
PGM mark: Precision in drilling matters
The geometry and cleanliness of the drill hole have a significant impact on the load capacity of an anchor connection. During the development and approval of fastening systems, drill bits with precisely defined tolerances are used. The installation guidelines for anchor systems published by the German Institute for Building Technology (DIBt) also explicitly recommend the use of such tested drill bits—a standard that is now internationally recognized. Drill bits bearing the mark of the Prüfgemeinschaft Mauerbohrer e. V. (PGM) offer maximum reliability:
- Verified diameter tolerances
- Monitored manufacturing quality
- Consistent drill hole geometry
Multi-cutter drill bits with complex head geometries must demonstrate their suitability for secure anchor installations through comparative testing. This also applies to hollow drill bits, which extract drilling dust directly during drilling via a hollow shaft. This reduces dust exposure for the user and eliminates the need for drill hole cleaning required by some anchor systems. Drill bits with PGM mark are widely available on the market, the specialized hollow drill bits MKT offers within their product range.
Sprinkler icon: Fire protection and insurance compliance
The fastening of sprinkler systems is subject to particularly stringent requirements. These are defined in the guidelines of VdS Schadenverhütung GmbH (VdS CEA 4001 – Guidelines for sprinkler systems, planning and installation).
- CE-marked anchors, i.e. anchors with a European Technical Assessment (ETA) based on EAD 330232 or EAD 330747
- Sufficient minimum load capacities
- Standardized threaded connection sizes
Anchors that meet these requirements can be identified by the sprinkler icon on the packaging. This marking confirms compliance with VdS guidelines and thus the suitability for sprinkler system installations required by many building insurers. A wide range of MKT anchors meet these VdS requirements and can therefore be used safely and reliably for fastening sprinkler systems.
19.05.2026
