Contamination such as dust, bacteria and yeast accumulate over time within ventilation systems affecting the quality of air supplied to building users, making it crucial to do dust sampling. Pollutants can cause coughing, sneezing, dizziness, shortness of breath and even fevers; while excess chemicals in the air can lead to serious respiratory problems and exacerbate existing heart conditions.
ACOP5 (41&42) relating to regulation 5 of the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 makes specific reference for the need for regular maintenance including inspection and testing at suitable intervals with British Standard BS EN 15780 providing the benchmark to define cleanliness of ductwork.
Our trained and experienced staff can assist with the process of testing the internal surfaces of ductwork for contamination and providing recommendations for remedial actions required as well as on-going monitoring regimes. Here are the two BS EN 15780 recommended methods of measuring dust and microbial flora on the surface of your ductwork:
- PVT Preferred Vacuum Test (to measure dust)
- DIFCO (microbiological sampling)
Dust Sampling (PVT)
Using pre-weighed cassettes, our team collect samples from the internal surfaces of ductwork as recommended by BS EN 15780.
The samples are then carefully transported to an independent UKAS accredited laboratory for analysis. We will analyse the results in conjunction with the guidance relevant to the type of building and system and interpret these results for you with any recommended actions for ensuring your systems are kept free from contamination; protecting the lungs of your building and the welfare of your building occupants.
Microbiological Sampling (DIFCO)
Ingress of water, contamination from the extracted air in rooms, an accumulation of dust or poorly functioning filters can all contribute to the potential growth of microbial flora, such as bacteria, yeast and mould on the surface of your ventilation systems. As the air passes through the supply systems in your building, it may be carrying these harmful pathogens into your rooms and polluting the air that building occupants will breathe in. This is why microbiological sampling, particularly in hospitals and critical care facilities is an important part of the building welfare maintenance.
Our team will use dipslides or contact plates to collect surface samples in accordance with BS EN 15780 and CIBSE TM26 guidance. The samples are again sent to an independent UKAS accredited laboratory where they are analysed for harmful or pathogenic micro-organisms. The level of microbiological contamination identified will be reported in terms of colony forming units (cfus), and our team will interpret these results in order to determine any action required.
The need for quality IAH (indoor air hygiene) has rapidly increased because of the global COVID-19 pandemic, which is why inspection and testing, as part of a monitoring regime is crucial. An understanding of the health of your ventilation systems is the first step towards reducing or preventing airborne illness. For more information on our dust and/or microbiological sampling service or to discuss inspection and monitoring programmes, get a Quick Quote or call us on 08000 197794. Our team of experienced professionals are at your service!
