Latest Activities
BIO-CIRC
We are delighted to be working with partners from both sides of the Channel on this exciting ERDF-funded research project, where we will be investigating the potential reuse of a problematic waste source - polyester duvets. Read more...
Moisture in buildings
Moisture related problems such as mould, can have a significant and sometimes dramatic impact on the health of occupants. The recently launched UK Centre for Moisture in Buildings established at University College London aims to become a centre of excellence in this area. Good design and careful product specification can significantly influence the moisture safety of new and retrofitted buildings. The ASBP has been invited to sit on the advisory committee and technical working groups. Read more...
The health effects of products
Allergy UK has four consultants, trained in all aspects of allergy, working on their help desk. They recently reported that they receive on average one call a week relating to ill health and new carpets, of which in some cases occupants have had to vacate their property. The ASBP will be working with UCL to analyse their data across product types. Read more...
Regulatory Standards
The UK Building Regulations Parts A, D & F specify that total VOCs or TVOCs emissions should be below 300µg/m3, over 8 hours. However, the European Protection Agency suggests these limits are without toxilogical justification. They report that children exposed to concentrations of VOCs higher than 60µg/m3, have a fourfold risk of asthma. Read more...
Source control – The role of products
We spend 90% of our time indoors, with indoor levels of VOCs often 2-5 times higher than outdoors and sometimes far greater. The industry needs to adopt the precautionary principle and exercise improved source control. The ASBP are preparing a CIRIA briefing on this subject which will be published shortly. Read more...