Smoke shafts systems are incredibly important to fire safety in high rise buildings and are one of the most important elements of a smoke control system; therefore, the air tightness performance of the shaft is paramount. However, the the different terminology can be quite confusing for the average person.

To help provide clarity on some common air testing and smoke shaft terms, we’ve assembled this glossary of words that can be difficult to understand in the field of air testing smoke shafts. This includes terms related to air testing, smoke shafts, and test parameter information. Though it’s far from an exhaustive list, we hope it can provide some guidance.

Smoke Shaft Testing – A glossary of terms A to Z

Here’s an A-to-Z glossary of terms related to air testing for smoke shafts:

A – Airflow Rate: The volume of air moving through the smoke shaft per unit of time, typically measured in cubic meters per hour (m³/h). Most smoke shafts need to achieve an air tightness target of 3.8m3/hr/m2.

B – Building Regulations: Legal standards that govern the design, construction, and performance of buildings and smoke shafts, including fire safety measures.

C – Calibration: The process of verifying the accuracy of testing equipment against known standards. Smoke shaft air testing equipment should be UKAS calibrated.

D – Damper: A device installed within ductwork or smoke shafts to control airflow.

E – Extraction Rate: The rate at which smoke is removed from a space by ventilation systems.

F – Fan Pressurisation: Test: A diagnostic method used to determine the airtightness of a building by using a blower door fan to pressurise or depressurise the smoke shaft building.

G – Gauge Pressure: The pressure within a smoke shaft relative to the external atmospheric pressure, usually shown in Pascals (Pa).

H – Human toxicity: The impact on human health of toxic substances emitted to the environment, such as very leaky smoke shafts emitting smoke into the protected atmosphere.

I – Infiltration: The unintentional or accidental introduction of outside air into a smoke shaft, typically through air leakage paths such as cracks and openings within the envelope of the shaft.

J – Joint Sealing: The application of sealant at junctions, seams, or gaps to prevent air leakage in smoke shafts.

K – Kilopascal (kPa): A unit of pressure. 1 kPa equals 1,000 pascals (Pa).

L – Leakage Path: Routes through which air can enter or escape from a building or smoke shaft.

M – Mechanical Ventilation: The use of mechanical systems to control the indoor air quality by diluting and displacing indoor pollutants such as smoke or dust.

N – Negative Pressure: A condition where the air pressure inside the smoke shaft or building is lower than the air pressure outside. Some smoke shaft air tests are undertaken using negative pressure to find air leakage.

O – Opening (AOV) Doors: Doors that open up on each protected areas such as stairwell landing in the event of a fire.

P – Pressurisation Method: A technique used in air tightness testing where the building or smoke shaft is pressurised to a known level and the airflow required to maintain that pressure is measured. The readings are usually taken between 25 to 70 in 5Pa increments.

Q – Qualitative Analysis: The assessment of a building’s air tightness based on observations rather than numerical measurements, often using smoke or thermal imaging.

R – Retardant: A substance or device used to slow down or stop the spread of fire or smoke, such as fireboard and intumescent paint.

S – Smoke Shaft: A vertical duct designed to extract smoke from a building in the event of a fire.

T – Thermal Imaging: The use of infrared cameras to detect temperature differences caused by air leakage. when used with a blower door its an extremely powerful tool to identify air leakage in smoke shafts.

U – Useful Space Heating: When the smoke shaft is heated to 6-8C higher than the surrounding building temperature, combined blower door and thermal imaging can be used to identify air leakage through the smoke shaft envelope.

W – Weather Sealing Strips: Materials used to seal gaps around doors to prevent air leakage.

X – Xenon Test: A method of detecting air leaks where xenon gas is used as a tracer in a pressurized space.

Y – Yield Point: The point at which a material or system begins to deform under stress, which could affect the air tightness of the smoke shaft.

Z – Zero Tolerance to Air Leakage: as the smoke shaft needs to attain a low air leakage figure to pass the air test, extra importance must be shown during the design and construction of the smoke shaft.

This glossary covers fundamental terms associated with air testing for smoke shafts. For more detailed information on the regulations surrounding smoke shafts,  please don’t hesitate to contact APT Sound Testing to chat with our smoke shaft testing experts.

10 reasons for undertaking a thermal imaging survey on electrical systems.

The are hundreds of reasons why you should undertake thermal imaging to electrical systems within your building; however, here is the top 10 reasons:

1. Safety of electrical systems: Thermal imaging can identify overheating components, loose connections, and other issues that may lead to equipment failure or fire hazards resulting in injury or even loss of life!
2. Preventive Maintenance: It helps avoid reactive repair and replacement costs. By being proactive, you can help reduce operating costs.
3. Energy Efficiency: A single critical fault can mean additional energy costs.  Thermal imaging can help identify such electrical faults, so repairs can be made to reduce running costs. 
4. Cost Savings: On average, each infrared electrical inspection reveals five to eight faults, highlighting the relative affordability of this predictive service. Its also one of the quickest inspections so defects can be quickly identified.
5. Fire Safety Compliance: NFPA 70B prescribes annual infrared inspections for electrical systems. A comprehensive infrared inspection can discover hidden defects, prevent unplanned failures, business interruption, equipment damage, and insurance losses. 

• Insurance Premium Reductions: In some cases, your business might qualify for a reduction in insurance premiums by conducting annual predictive/preventive maintenance thermographic surveys. 
• Non-Intrusive: Electrical thermal imaging surveys are non-intrusive, enabling inspections to be completed safely and efficiently, without interruption to your business operations and/or critical assets.
• Planning Maintenance: Electrical thermography inspections enable the identification of only those items of equipment that require remedial works together with the severity of the defect. This enables maintenance to be suitably planned around operational commitments. 
• Extend Equipment Lifecycle: An electrical thermographic survey can give an excellent insight into the operational effectiveness of equipment, enabling the identification of opportunities to make energy savings together with increasing the operational lifecycle of equipment.
• Reduction in Breakdown Costs: Depending on the type of equipment and its location, the cost of electrical failure can run into many thousands of pounds in repairs, lost production, injury claims, etc. As defects are found before they cause equipment to fail, the associated cost of repairs is minimal compared to the cost of equipment failure and/or accidents in the workplace.

How often should an Infrared Electrical Inspection be undertaken?

Ideally an electrical thermal imaging inspection should ideally be conducted every 6 to 12 months as part of the electrical preventive maintenance program. However, the frequency can vary depending on the equipment history, problems associated with its location, or adverse environmental concerns. For businesses with heavy usage equipment, such as busy manufacturing plants, it’s recommended to carry out a thermal imaging survey every 12 months. Regular inspections can help ensure safety, energy efficiency, and cost savings on critical assets.

Our thermal imaging inspection service for electrical systems

Our team of Level 3 certified professional Thermographers are highly experienced in carrying out thermal imaging surveys and have many years’ experience in all aspects of engineering, construction, maintenance, management, and professional survey work. Our thermal imaging equipment is some of the most accurate on the market, ensuring we pick up faults that other equipment may miss.

Our thermal imaging service includes:

• Supply of an ITC trained thermographer and level 3 reporting assessment using a large format FLIR P6n-Series (640×480 resolution) thermal imaging camera.
• To supply an external thermographic inspection of the electrical systems, taking into account, distribution boards, fuse boards, Switchgears, switchboards, Control panels, Busbar systems and Transformers.
• Looking for loose connections, overloaded and/or fatigued components, uneven voltage distribution and blockages in cooling tubes of transformers
• A detailed report clearly showing any areas of concern

For more information on our thermal imaging service for electrical systems in London, please contact us at: info@aptsoundtesting.co.uk or call APT Sound Testing on 07775 623464.

Electrical Thermal Imaging Surveys

Many building managers may not be fully aware of the critical importance of an annual electrical thermal imaging survey for their building’s electrical systems. This survey is not just a precautionary measure but is usually required to comply with insurance obligations. Failure to conduct this infrared inspection can potentially invalidate the building insurance, particularly in the event of a fire or other electrical mishaps. Therefore, understanding and adhering to the necessity of an electrical thermal imaging inspection is paramount for building managers.

The significance of an electrical thermal imaging inspection extends beyond insurance compliance; it is crucial for ensuring the safety and operational efficiency of the building’s electrical systems. Fortunately, modern thermal imaging technology makes these surveys operationally convenient for building operators. Unlike traditional inspection methods, thermal imaging eliminates the need to power down or isolate any part of the electrical systems.

By detecting temperature differences behind walls and other obstacles, thermal imaging provides a quick, easy, and less intrusive service that can be conducted in all weather conditions.

Moreover, conducting electrical thermal imaging inspections is not just about meeting insurance requirements; it is also a legal obligation under The Electricity at Work Regulations (1989) Act and various other regulatory frameworks. Compliance with these statutory obligations ensures the safety of occupants and minimizes the risk of electrical hazards within the building.

Thermal imaging inspections are not uniform; they vary in complexity and comprehensiveness. Typically, insurance companies, facility managers, and safety auditors expect a thorough examination conducted by a Level 3 thermographer. The reports generated from these inspections serve as crucial documentation for insurance claims and regulatory compliance.

A standard electrical thermographic inspection report usually consists of four main sections:

1. Introduction/Report Summary: This section provides an overview of the survey conducted and summarizes the key findings.
2. Main Body Report Pages: Here, identified faults or anomalies detected during the thermal imaging inspection are detailed. Each fault is described, its severity assessed, and recommended remedial actions provided.
3. Condition Monitoring Assessment: This section offers insights into the operational condition of equipment reported during previous surveys, providing an ongoing assessment of equipment health.
4. Appendices: This section includes a checklist and thermal images of every asset inspected during the survey, creating an auditable record of the inspection process and equipment health at the time of the survey.

While clients may not directly witness the meticulousness of the thermographic reportage, it is a vital aspect of the service provided. The aim is to deliver clear, easily referenceable reports to the end-user, ensuring transparency and facilitating informed decision-making regarding maintenance and repairs.

Thermography & Electrical Thermal Imaging Inspections

When selecting a thermographer for electrical thermal imaging inspections, it is essential to consider several factors to ensure the quality and reliability of the service:

• Certification: Ensure that the thermographer holds Level 3 certification, indicating a high level of expertise and competence in thermal imaging inspections.
• Equipment: Verify that the thermographer uses high-quality equipment, such as large format FLIR thermal imaging cameras with 45-degree lenses, ensuring accurate and detailed imaging.
• Comprehensive Reporting: Seek thermographers who provide comprehensive and detailed reports, clearly documenting all defects and anomalies identified during the inspection process.

At APT Sound Testing, we prioritize the quality and reliability of our thermal imaging services. Our inspections are conducted by Level 3 certified thermographers using state-of-the-art FLIR thermal imaging cameras. We provide comprehensive reports that meet the requirements of insurance companies, facility managers, and safety auditors, ensuring compliance with regulatory obligations.

If you require more information about our thermal imaging services or wish to schedule an inspection, please contact us at 01525 303905 or email us at info@aptsoundtesting.co.uk. We are committed to ensuring the safety and efficiency of your building’s electrical systems through our professional thermal imaging inspections.

Elevate Your Fire Safety Standards with Comprehensive Air Tightness Testing and Remediation Services. Ensure Regulatory Compliance and Protect Occupants with APT’s Accredited Solutions.

Smoke shafts systems are commonly installed as part of a fire-engineered approach to safety in high rise buildings. Smoke shafts are an important element of a smoke control system; therefore, the air tightness performance of the shaft is paramount ? that?s why they need to pass an air tightness test. If the smoke shaft doesn?t meet the air tightness target (usually 3.8m3/hr/m2) it can have a negative impact to the overall system and cannot be signed off by the fire system contractor and/or Building Control.

We have a massive amount of experience helping clients pass testing all sizes of smoke shafts, we also offer a diagnostic service for failed smoke shafts, using both smoke shaft testing and thermal imaging to identify air leakage paths within the smoke shaft envelope. On previous projects where the smoke shaft has failed the air test, we have managed to quickly identify the air leakage paths so cliento allow for targeted used smoke testing and thermal imagining to identify air leakage paths within the envelope of the smoke shaft.

The findings our smoke surveys are collated into a detailed air leakage report, which then allows the client to undertake targeted remedial sealing works resulting in a test pass during the following visit.

Our premium smoke shaft testing service includes:

• Smoke shaft survey visits by experienced consultants
• We are a UKAS and ATTMA Level 2 accredited air testing company
• Smoke shaft air test certification to UKAS/ATTMA
• The latest high-powered fan equipment
• UKAS calibrated equipment.
• The best diagnostic leakage service using smoke machines & thermal imaging.
• Rapid testing service

Air Pressure Testing is one of the few companies that is both UKAS and ATTMA Level 2 accredited for undertaking air tightness testing to buildings as well as smoke shafts and floor plenums.

Importance of Air Testing for Smoke Shafts

Air testing for smoke shafts is a crucial step in ensuring safety and compliance with regulations. In the event of a fire, smoke can pose significant risks to occupants, often causing more than 60% of fatalities due to inhalation. By conducting air tests, we ensure that smoke control systems are effective in evacuating smoke, protecting escape routes, and assisting firefighters.

We have been undertaking AOV smoke shaft testing throughout London and the South-East, on many prestigious projects such as Battersea Power Station, The Imperial War Museum and Clarridges and Berkeley Hotel. 

Don’t compromise on safety — trust APT Smoke Shaft Air Testing Services for thorough and reliable testing.

If you would like more information on our smoke shaft (AOV) testing and/or you would like to download our smoke shaft checklist, please contact us at: www.aptsoundtesting.co.uk

Part E Sound Testing for Building Compliance

Since July 2003, Part E Pre-completion sound testing has been a mandatory requirement for all new build properties and conversions constructed after this date. This regulatory measure aims to ensure that buildings meet specified standards for sound insulation, particularly between adjoining rooms separated by party walls or floors. In essence, Part E Sound Testing evaluates the effectiveness of the building’s construction in minimising the transmission of airborne and impact noises between different spaces within the structure.

The process of Part E Sound Testing involves several key steps to assess the sound insulation performance of the building elements. Firstly, a representative sample, typically 10% of each party wall/floor construction type, is selected for testing. This sample includes pairs of rooms separated by the relevant partitions. In most cases, the rooms subjected to testing are the primary habitable spaces such as living rooms and bedrooms, where effective sound insulation is crucial for occupants’ comfort and privacy.

Airborne sound testing is conducted between horizontally and vertically separated pairs of rooms. This test involves the use of specialized equipment, including a sound source, amplifier, and loudspeaker, to generate controlled noise levels in one room (the source room). Measurements are then taken in both the source and receiver rooms to assess the sound transmission across the partition. These measurements include background noise levels and reverberation time in the receiver room. The results are used to calculate the airborne sound insulation rating (DnT,w + Ctr), which is then compared against the requirements outlined in Approved Document E of the building regulations.

For vertically separated rooms, impact sound testing is additionally required. This test simulates the transmission of impact noises, such as footsteps or dropped objects, through the floor structure. A tapping machine, which drops weights onto the upper room’s floor, is used to generate standardized impact noise. Measurements are taken in the lower (receiver) room to evaluate the impact sound insulation performance. Similar to airborne sound testing, background noise levels and reverberation time are measured to ensure accurate assessment. The results yield the impact sound insulation rating (L’nT,w), which is compared to regulatory standards.

To conduct Part E Sound Testing effectively, specialized equipment and trained sound test engineers are essential. At APT Sound Testing, we utilize state-of-the-art Norsonic equipment with class one ratings to ensure accurate and reliable results. Our sound testing procedures adhere to strict quality control standards, and we provide full ISO compliant testing services. Additionally, we offer comprehensive support to clients, including acoustic design reviews of architectural drawings to optimize sound insulation performance and minimize the risk of test failures.

Our services extend beyond sound testing, encompassing planning noise surveys to address compliance with other regulatory requirements such as Part L. We offer cost-effective packages that include both sound and air testing, providing clients with comprehensive solutions to their building compliance needs.

At APT Sound Testing, we understand the importance of achieving sound insulation compliance without costly delays or remedial works. Our expert acoustic consultants are available to provide telephone advice and guidance on sound testing requirements. Whether you require sound insulation assessments for party walls and floors or need assistance with acoustic design reviews for your development, our team is here to help.

Contact APT Sound Testing

For further information or to discuss your specific requirements, please contact APT Sound Testing today. You can reach our expert consultants by calling 01525 303905 or emailing us at info@aptsoundtesting.co.uk. Let us assist you in ensuring that your construction project meets the necessary standards for sound insulation and building compliance.

Thermal Imaging London Deal

If you require a thermal imaging survey carried out in London we are currently offering a 10 % Discount, please Contact us and quote “London Thermal Imaging Deal” to get your discount.

Thermal Imaging or thermographic building surveys is a non-invasive temperature measurement testing method.  Thermographic inspections can provide a no-contact survey for many applications in detecting missing insulation in building envelopes and mechanical and electrical faults before they actually give rise to unplanned and costly breakdowns.

Whether it is for insulation continuity in Building Regulations Part L2, paths of air leakage, insulation we have a survey to fit your requirements. Our integrity is guaranteed to bring you true results. Common problems that Thermal imaging in buildings can help to identify are:

• Missing, damaged, or inadequate insulation,
• Building envelope air leaks and moisture intrusion
• Destructive water damage

Upon completion of our thermal imaging survey you will receive a report that details the following: High specification 640×480 cameras with wide angle lens

• Same Day’ delivered reports
• Dedicated scheduling and expert campaign management ensuring all data is returned correctly and quickly
• Recommendations for any further investigation required along with explanation

The Advantages of Thermal Imaging

Unlike other types of tests, thermal imaging is a non-invasive procedure which requires little physical work. Some of the images can be taken from outside the property. This also means there is no risk of damage to the building, and it can help speed up the process of identifying any problem areas, potentially saving clients time and money.

Thermography is suitable for use on all sorts of new buildings as well as old existing buildings that may suffer from draughts or air tightness issues, to new-builds which have to meet the latest building regulations. It can be used on domestic properties, business premises and all types of public buildings as well.

We only use Level 3 Thermographers

The importance of using one of our Level 3 trained thermographers cannot be understated as they are trained to be write predictive maintenance and inspection practices and to develop test procedures and ascertain severity criteria. To try and help clients prepare for the BREEAM thermal imaging survey to their building, we have written the following article: How we carry our thermal Surveys on commercial buildings.

BREEAM Technical Standards

Here is some more information in regards to the new BREEAM Technical Standards as well as scoring extra BREEAM credits for your new development.

BREEAM provides extra points to projects that have a BREEAM Thermal survey undertaken. As not many clients are aware of BREEAM thermal surveys, we have included more information in our ‘What is a BREEAM thermal Imaging Survey’ article. Also to try and help clients prepare for their survey please download our Thermal Imaging Checklist.

Please contact us for more information

If you would like to contact us for more information on our thermal imaging services, please contact us on 01525 303905 or email us at info@aptsoundtesting.co.uk

Alternatively if you would like more information on how to prepare for your thermal imaging survey, please visit our website here or download our thermal imaging checklist

Clean Room Testing Services by APT Sound Testing

In today’s meticulously regulated environments, maintaining clean room standards is paramount across various industries, from pharmaceutical manufacturing to microelectronic production. APT Sound Testing offers a comprehensive suite of clean room testing services to ensure compliance with ISO standards and facilitate optimal operational conditions. Our commitment to excellence, coupled with UKAS accreditation, guarantees meticulous attention to detail and reliable results.

APT Sound Testing specialises in clean room testing services, addressing the diverse needs of industries where environmental control is critical. Our proactive approach minimizes downtime, ensuring the seamless operation of your critical assets. Through a combination of cutting-edge techniques and expert intervention, we deliver superior service tailored to exceed customer expectations.

Primary Clean Room Tests

>>> Airborne Particulate Testing: We conduct precise measurements to verify the concentration of particles and microorganisms within your clean room, ensuring compliance with specified standards.

>>> Filter (HEPA) Installation Leak Testing: Rigorous testing of high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters and their housings using Dispersed Oil Particulate (DOP) ensures integrity and efficiency.

>>> Air Supply and Extract Quantities: Whether unidirectional or non-unidirectional systems, we accurately measure air velocity and supply to maintain optimal airflow.

>>> Differential Pressure: Our tests ascertain that your clean room maintains a higher pressure than adjacent areas, ensuring airflow from clean to less clean zones.

>>> Containment Leak Testing: Thorough examination of the clean room’s construction guarantees no airborne contamination occurs due to leaks from neighboring areas.

>>> Air Movement Control: We analyse airflow patterns to confirm adequate movement for pollutant dilution, preventing contamination buildup.

>>> Room Recovery: Evaluating airflow effectiveness, we measure the speed at which a clean room returns to its designated cleanliness level after particulate release.

>>> Temperature, Relative Humidity: Additional tests encompass temperature, humidity, heating, cooling capabilities, noise, lighting, and vibration levels, ensuring comprehensive environmental control.

Customer-Centric Approach

Our customer-driven ethos underpins every aspect of our service delivery. We prioritize transparency, ensuring clients understand the testing process and results fully. Upon completion, we provide clear, concise test reports promptly, minimizing operational downtime and facilitating informed decision-making.

Expert Sound Testing Services

In addition to clean room testing, APT Sound Testing offers sound testing services for residential, commercial, and educational buildings. Our experienced engineers utilize advanced techniques to assess acoustic performance, providing tailored solutions to achieve regulatory compliance. With expertise in acoustic design, we offer valuable advice to optimize soundproofing measures and ensure project success.

Comprehensive Solutions

For added convenience and efficiency, we offer ‘in-house’ UKAS accredited air tightness testing alongside sound testing services. This integrated approach streamlines processes, reduces costs, and eliminates coordination challenges, providing clients with a seamless testing experience.

APT Sound Testing ~ Your Trusted Partner

APT Sound Testing stands as a trusted partner for comprehensive clean room testing and sound testing services. With a steadfast commitment to quality, adherence to ISO standards, and customer-centric approach, we ensure operational excellence across diverse industries. Contact us today to discover how our expertise can safeguard your critical assets and facilitate regulatory compliance.

Please contact APT Sound Testing on 07775623464 or email us at info@aptsoundtesting.co.uk for more information on our Clean Room Testing Services.

Thermal Imaging Inspections to identify Building Faults

Thermal imaging can quickly analyse working machinery, electrical systems and identify heat loss in building construction. Thermal imaging inspections is a quick and easy way for contractors and developers to save time and money and prevent accidents that could lead to property damage and even loss of life.

What Is Thermal Imaging?

Thermal imaging detects varying levels of heat based on the infrared waves emitted by objects. Professional thermal imaging cameras can see subtle differences in temperature to create a detailed image of hot and cold areas with accurate temperature measurements. Differences in temperature can be used to pinpoint potential problems in malfunctioning equipment and in systems that have been installed improperly. When used with our blower door systems it becomes an even more powerful tool for fault diagnosis for building envelopes.

What Industries Use Thermal Imaging?

The main benefit of thermal imaging is it doesn’t require equipment to be shut down to be inspected.  The trained operator can quickly inspect and document faults and determine when repairs should be scheduled without shutting down your critical assets.

Safety is another reason that thermal cameras have become a regular tool for maintenance teams. Technicians do not have to be close to the machinery being tested as the photo can be taken from a distance, keeping techs safe while still acquiring the needed information.

Thermal Imaging for Building Inspections

Building inspections use thermal imaging to detect defects in the fabric of the building, i.e. the walls, roof, and floor. This can be items such as damaged or missing insulation, as well as damp and/or water leaks. Its worth noting that you can also gain extra BREEAM credits if you undertake a thermal imaging survey. One of the major ussies with building inspections is identifying water leaks that have not been revealed during other ‘more standard’ visual surveys. Determining if there is excessive moisture and finding the source of a leak through the normal inspection process may prove very difficult and costly as you may need to provide safe access such as scaffold for roof inspections etc.

Wet building materials will usually be colder than dry materials and a thermal camera can alert the thermographer as to where there may be problems. Wet insulation, framing, drywall, and masonry can be revealed, allowing stakeholders to make informed decisions as to the necessary repairs whilst saving on cost and program.

Thermal imaging for Industrial Maintenance

Many manufacturing companies operate 24 hours a day, so taking any critical equipment off-line to run any type of maintenance can be extremely costly. Ne quick and reliable way to inspect your critical assets is via thermal imaging. enhanced when thermal imaging is part of an asset inspection and condition-based maintenance program (CBM). Downtime and maintenance expenses can both be reduced with a CBM program since maintenance only occurs when it’s needed, rather than on a set schedule. Thermal imaging allows excessive heat in electrical, mechanical, and process equipment to be detected early in the failure curve. This minimizes the risk of a catastrophic failure, business interruption, and potentially dangerous conditions.

Thermal imaging for electrical utility inspections

Electrical distribution systems are one of the most important utilities in homes and businesses and support millions of users every day. Quickly locating potential failures in the electrical systems using thermal imaging is essential for providing constant service to customers. Main incoming, Distribution Boards, Transformers, circuit breakers and switches are common points in electrical systems that usually heat up before failure.  Thermal cameras can quickly and safely detect hotspots, by measuring the temperature, allowing for engineers to schedule repairs before system failure occurs.

Thermal imaging for home inspections

Home inspectors must find problems that are difficult to see such as water leaks damp and moisture damage as well as accurately pinpoint leak leaks. Wet insulation, framing, and drywall can be quickly revealed, allowing home buyers to make informed decisions and a good investment prior to buying a property.

Thermal imaging for identifying air leakage in buildings

When used with a blower door fan, thermal imaging can be extremely accurate when identifying air leaks through the building envelope. This allows our clients to undertake targeted remedial sealing works to improve the air tightness of their building/s. By imprinting the air tightness, it also reduces draughts and lowers your energy usage, sometimes by up to 20%.

Thermal imaging for identifying leaks in underfloor heating

Thermal imaging is often used to diagnose problems with under floor heating systems.  It’s can quickly pinpoint the leak, which often means the difference of carefully removing one tile to fix the problem, rather than tearing out an expensive tiled floored with the increased cost and damage this brings.

APT provide Level 3 thermal imaging inspections

APT Sound Testing is a leading provider of thermal imaging inspections across London and the UK. We provide Level 3 Thermographers, along with the latest high resolution thermal cameras and software to provide detailed reports to our valued clients. We offer thermal imaging services to Building Contractors, FM companies and utility and construction companies. Our team of industry professionals’ pride ourselves on offering a friendly professional service from start to finish.

Our thermal imaging inspection service includes:

• Level 3 certified field engineers
• The latest high resolution thermal imaging cameras
• Fully calibrated equipment
• The latest diagnostic software
• 20 years of experience in the thermography sector.

We can carry out on-site inspections and thermographic surveys on a one-off basis, such as a BREEAM building envelope survey, or as part of an ongoing maintenance program. Please speak to us if you’d like to learn more about this crucial service – and how we can help your project. If you would like more information on how to prepare for the thermal imaging survey please check out the following thermal imaging checklist

APT’s thermographic survey engineers can quickly identify imminent and future problems, allowing repairs to be carried out during scheduled maintenance. So, if you’re interested in thermographic surveys, on-site thermal inspections please let us know.

Please contact APT Sound Testing on 07775623464 or email us at info@aptsoundtesting.co.uk for more information.

Air Tightness Testing Services

APT Sound Testing offers comprehensive Air Tightness Testing services across the United Kingdom. We cater to projects of all scales, ranging from individual dwellings to expansive commercial structures. As one of the select few UKAS accredited companies, we specialise in both Air and Sound testing, ensuring full compliance with Building Regulations and Standards.

Our unique accreditation allows us to conduct Air, Sound, and Vent Testing all in one visit, offering clients cost efficiencies and streamlined on-site coordination. Unlike many firms, we handle all work directly without subcontracting.

Since its mandate in 2006 under Building Regulations Part L in England and Wales, achieving satisfactory levels of air tightness has become imperative. This requirement aligns with efforts to create environmentally friendly buildings by minimizing carbon emissions through the prevention of energy loss via air leakage. Part L defines ‘air leakage’ as the uncontrolled flow of air through a building’s gaps and cracks, commonly known as draughts.

Energy loss through the building fabric contributes to the building emission rate. New projects must adhere to specific air testing and emission rate standards. The typical target for a standard dwelling is 5.0m3/hr/m2, while commercial buildings often aim for lower rates, around 3.0m3/hr/m2.

Air infiltration usually accompanies exfiltration elsewhere in the building, potentially leading to issues like condensation, mould, or rot. Our consultancy services extend from the project’s design phase to pre-completion testing, ensuring compliance for building control signoff. For clients requiring weekend testing, we offer an ‘out of hours testing’ service to minimize disruption during weekdays.

Our combined air and sound testing packages provide substantial cost savings. With our engineers accredited in both disciplines, clients benefit from a streamlined ‘3 step’ pre-completion package, eliminating the need for multiple contractors. On-site coordination is enhanced, as both tests are conducted efficiently on the same day. Additionally, we offer out of hours testing to minimize disruption during standard working hours.

We pride ourselves on offering friendly, expert advice to help properties achieve required emission rates for air testing. Reach out to our knowledgeable team of air tightness consultants through our contact form or by calling our offices to discuss your specific air testing needs.

We can help with your Air Tightness Testing

APT Sound Testing we have large amount of experience in understanding the requirements of Approved Document L, along with extensive experience of carrying out thousands of successful air tightness tests on a wide range of developments across London and the UK.

In order to achieve the required air tightness target (which is getting lower all the time) and to avoid the risk of a failed air tightness test, we strongly recommend that early consideration is given to the design of the air leakage line within your project.

By working with our customers throughout their design and construction stages, we can provide advice and guidance on the most feasible ways to avoid air leakage and attain compliance for the air tightness test. Please download our air tightness checklist to help you prepare for your test.

How to Pass a Smoke Shaft Air Test
Achieving success in a smoke shaft air test is vital for ensuring building safety and regulatory compliance. However, passing the test on the first attempt can be challenging. Here’s a condensed guide outlining essential steps to prepare your smoke shaft for the air tightness test:

1. Consultation with Experts: Seek early advice from air tightness consultants for insights into effective smoke shaft design and sealing strategies.
2. Determine Air Tightness Target: Establish the airtightness goal, typically less than 3.8 m³/h/m² @ 50 Pa, which can be challenging for small enclosures like smoke shafts.
3. Optimal Design: Ensure robust construction materials like concrete or high-density blocks to create a tight air barrier with no mortar joint gaps.
4. Interior Finish: Smooth and seal the inside of the shaft meticulously, including all junctions and joints, using appropriate methods like parge coating or mastic sealing.
5. Seal Penetrations: Completely seal all service, structural, and cable penetrations within the smoke shaft envelope.
6. Secure Door Openings: Use heavy-duty materials to seal all door openings within the smoke shaft to prevent leakage.
7. Seal AOV Door Frames: Mastic seal the perimeter of AOV doors to prevent leakage.
8. Seal Shaft Base and Head: Ensure thorough sealing of the shaft’s base and head before the air test.
9. Conduct Air Testing: Use a calibrated blower door fan set to pressurize the shaft and measure air tightness according to CIBSE TM23 standards.
10. Address Test Failures: If the shaft fails the test, employ smoke testing or thermal imaging to identify and seal leaks, producing a detailed leakage survey report.

For comprehensive assistance in smoke shaft systems, consult experts specialising in smoke shaft design and compliance. Utilise services from UKAS accredited air tightness consultants and testing companies, equipped with the latest high-powered fan equipment and diagnostic tools like smoke machines and thermal imaging.

UKAS Accredited

We are a UKAS accredited, as well as being certified to ATTMA Level 2 for air tightness testing. For a detailed guide, you can refer to our article that provide a comprehensive roadmap and tips for preparing your smoke shaft for an air test. It’s advisable to consult with UKAS accredited air tightness consultants early in the process to increase the chances of passing the smoke shaft air test on the first attempt.

How We Can Help you PASS your Smoke Shaft Air Test

There are many ways we can help you pass your smoke shaft air test at the first attempt. Firstly, our experienced engineers have over 10 years in the field of smoke shaft testing – having undertaken hundreds of air test, so we know how to help clients to pass their testing:

Our simple roadmap to a successful smoke shaft air test:

Smoke shaft survey visits by experienced air tightness consultants.
UKAS and ATTMA Level 2 air testing company
UKAS smoke shaft air test certification
The latest high-powered fan equipment
UKAS calibrated equipment
Diagnostic leakage surveys testing using smoke machines & thermal imaging
Rapid testing service – sometimes within 48 hours!

We offer leading design, consultancy, and compliance for every part of your project. It’s APT’s aim to provide a friendly and professional stress-free experience.

Please contact APT on 07775623464, or email us at info@airpressuretesting.co.uk for more information.