Course description
Airtightness is the measure of how much air leakage there is from a building. This is determined by carrying out an airtightness test and the figure obtained from the testing is the air permeability value.
Air leakage can be measured by pressurising or depressurising the building to see how much air flows in or out of the building at a given pressure. Air tightness tests are useful to architects, building services designers, energy assessors, builders, services installers, fire sealers, airtightness testers, building controllers, building owners/occupiers etc. Airtightness testing is the best way to assess the performance of the building fabric in stopping the uncontrolled passage of air. It is also a very effective method of locating air leakage paths in a completed building.
Airtightness testing is mandatory for new buildings. Testers must either be registered through a scheme such as the ATTMA or Elmhurst scheme, or demonstrate to building control that they are competent to test and are using UKAS-calibrated equipment.
This 4-day course provides the theory behind airtightness testing as well as hands on training. It culminates in a three-part examination which, when passed, will enable delegates to begin the process of registration. The practical demonstrations and practical exam on this course are carried out using Minneapolis blower door equipment. Information is also provided regarding Retrotec blower doors so that anyone passing the course can use Retrotec equipment and adapt what they have learned. The low pressure pulse (LPP) method is not covered.
The course is built around the National Occupational Standards ASTATT1 to ASTATT10. These specify the standards that airtightness testers are expected to achieve in their work and hence the knowledge and skills taught on the BSRIA course. The course covers regulations and standards applicable in all parts of the UK, regardless of the location of the course.
After attending the course and passing the exams, the next step is to carry out an initial review which must be completed within one year of attending the course. The cost of the initial review is included in the course fee.
Upcoming start dates
Target Audience and Admission Requirements
Who should attend
This course is designed for anyone who either intends to undertake airtightness testing or who is already doing so.
Delegates should be computer literate and have a base knowledge of mathematics, physics and construction practice - you can test your knowledge by downloading our quick test. Please do not send your completed test back to BSRIA. Delegates should understand the basic concept of building envelope areas.
Outcome / Qualification etc.
- Understand airtightness testing theory, technical standards and practice; the use of Blower Door Equipment and how to interpret the test results provided by that equipment.
- Measure the pressurisation or depressurisation of a building to see how much air flows in or out of a building at a given pressure.
- Gain enough knowledge to begin to register with an accredited body such as ATTMA or Elmhurst.
Training Course Content
Days 1-3 (Classroom learning)
- Reasons for carrying out airtightness testing
- Background information on Building Regulations
- Overview of the guidance in Approved Documents/Technical Handbooks
- How to comply with the Regulations and guidance
- Calculating envelope areas
- Site Health and Safety
- Technical Standards
- Conducting the test
- Reporting the test
- Common Problems
Day 4 (Examination - 3 parts)
- Theory paper (Open book)
- Envelope area measurement (Open book)
- Practical (divided into 2 parts)
Expenses
Course price
- 1st delegate: £1,400.00
- Subsequent delegates: £1,150.00
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BSRIA
Our mission is to make buildings better, and we support industry in designing and operating buildings that perform well economically, socially, and environmentally. We do this through providing independent testing of products and buildings throughout the construction industry; the sale,...