Insulation Flammability Testing from Air-Cell Insulation

Thermo reflective insulation installed under roofs must have flammability compliance.

INSULATION TESTING UNCOVERS RAMPANT NON COMPLIANCE:
3 out of 4 products do not meet flammability standards

Thermo reflective insulation company Air-Cell has raised fresh concerns that its beleaguered industry is facing the threat of further safety issues.

Testing has identified rampant non compliance of flammability standards, raising concerns about the safety risks of products in the market and their potential to further discredit the industry still reeling from the Government's scrapped Home Insulation Program.

As specified under the Building Code of Australia (BCA), reflective foil insulation products require a flammability index of not more than 5 when installed under the roof of new constructions. However recent results showed that Air-Cell was the only product among those tested that met this standard.

Air-Cell managing director Scott Gibson said the results were alarming and highlighted the importance of independent certification in the industry.

"In an environment such as the Australian insulation industry, which is clouded by unsubstantiated compliance claims, we have always felt that it is critical to give specifiers, builders and home owners the peace of mind that comes with third-party independent certification."

Using the Australian Standard AS 1530.2 flammability test method, Air-Cell was the only manufacturer among those tested to produce a compliant test certificate. Air-Cell is also still the only reflective foil insulation in Australia with CodeMark certification. "The CodeMark accreditation of our products re-affirms our commitment to product quality, safety and transparency."

Adding further stress, Mr Gibson said the insulation industry was now heavily oversupplied as a result of the Home Insulation Program being scrapped.

"Many companies will now have excess stock which they can no longer sell to the existing homes market, raising concerns that sub standard imports will be rushed into the new homes construction segment.

"We'd urge the relevant State and Federal authorities to take action on compliance issues to ensure the safety of the public and building professionals."

Master Builders Association Housing Director Gavan Forster said that it was imperative that all building materials comply with Australian standards not only in relation to fire safety but also to other performance criteria.

Mr Forster said "Builders should check with their suppliers to confirm that materials supplied conform with all relevant Australian standards including flammability requirements. Prudent builders would request this confirmation in writing."

* A report showing test results is available on request.