Why is ventilation plant & ductwork inspection required?

The inspection of air handling units (supply & extract) and associated distribution ductwork is important to assess condition, compliance, hygienic status and system cleanliness. Each section of plant from fresh air inlet, frost coil, pre-filters, heater and chiller section, humidifiers and secondary filters through the distribution ducting to the terminal devices is surveyed.

Ventilation plant inspections are a mandatory requirement under UK law and covered by The Workplace (Health, Safety & Welfare) Regulations 1992, which came into force in 1996. These regulations were accompanied by an Approved Code of Practice and Guidance (L24) which has since been updated; L24 (2nd edition) was published in 2013. Regulation 6 of the Code of Practice covers Ventilation with section 52 detailing the importance of regular maintenance & inspection:

“52.   Mechanical ventilation systems (including air-conditioning systems) should be regularly and adequately cleaned. They should also be properly tested and maintained to ensure that they are kept clean and free from anything which may contaminate the air.”

What is involved?

Our service covers:

• Visual inspection of the condition of plant, ducted systems and associated accessible system components using digital photography.
• System sampling and testing which may include measured levels of any system contamination using a method approved by BS EN 15780:2011 Ventilation for Buildings Ductwork Cleanliness of Ventilation Systems if appropriate (normally only at our surveyor’s discretion or client requirement).
• Microbial sampling may be carried out within various sections of the air handling plant and ducting which will assist in determining the levels of cleanliness in each system.
• All results presented graphically and compared against industry and healthcare standards which will help highlight and quantify the extent of any contamination.

How often does it need to be done?

Normally, ventilation plant inspections will be carried out as part of an annual risk assessment or verification. In some cases, an inspection may be necessary when significant system remedial works or extensive cleaning has been undertaken. An inspection would be part of the routine maintenance procedure for bringing plant safely back into service.

How can AirisQ help with your AHU inspection?

Our experienced team of highly trained and industry qualified surveyors can provide the required on-site service and equipment to carry out the inspection. A full report will be issued following the visit, giving you documented evidence to show whether the plant is meeting the required standards.