In February 2025, a BREEAM Indoor Air Quality Assessment was conducted at a commercial facility in South Ruislip to evaluate indoor air quality and ensure compliance with BREEAM standards. The assessment focused on checking levels of formaldehyde and total volatile organic compounds (TVOCs) across different areas, including offices and warehouse spaces.
The results were great news! All tested areas passed the air quality requirements, with formaldehyde and TVOC levels well below the maximum limits set by BREEAM. This means the indoor air quality is safe and the space meets sustainability and health guidelines.
Since air quality was already in excellent condition, no additional measures were required. However, to maintain these standards, it’s always good practice to ensure proper ventilation, monitor material choices to minimise VOC emissions and conduct periodic air quality checks.
With these positive findings, the facility can move forward confidently, providing a healthy and comfortable indoor environment while meeting high environmental and sustainability standards.
A recent BREEAM Indoor Air Quality Assessment was conducted at a newly built health centre in Tottenham Hale to ensure a fresh and comfortable environment. The goal was to measure air quality levels, focusing on formaldehyde and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can affect indoor air freshness.
The results were great! The assessment found that both formaldehyde and VOC levels were well within the required limits set by BREEAM standards, meaning the indoor air quality met all necessary health and safety guidelines. This is excellent news for staff and visitors, as it ensures a pleasant and safe space to work and receive care.
No further actions were needed, but maintaining proper ventilation and reducing potential pollutant sources will help keep the air fresh in the long run. With these positive findings, the site is on track to meet sustainability and health targets while providing a high-quality indoor environment.
This project was focusing on ensuring top-notch indoor air quality for a new development in London, aligning with BREEAM standards. The plan is all about creating a healthier indoor environment by tackling potential air pollutants from construction materials, ventilation systems, and external sources like road traffic.
To achieve this, a proactive approach has been taken, including selecting low-emission materials, maintaining clean airflow, and implementing a structured pre-occupancy flush-out process. Testing and third-party verification play a key role, ensuring that indoor air quality meets strict environmental standards before anyone moves in.
Post-construction, a long-term strategy is in place to keep air quality high. Regular maintenance of ventilation systems, moisture control and using eco-friendly cleaning methods are all part of the plan. This means future occupants will enjoy fresher, healthier indoor spaces with reduced exposure to pollutants.
By following BREEAM guidelines, this project not only enhances well-being but also contributes to a more sustainable built environment. The combination of smart design, careful material selection and ongoing maintenance ensures that air quality remains a priority throughout the building's lifecycle.
A BREEAM Indoor Air Quality Plan was developed by our team at Sysco Environmental LTD for the renovation of a Working Men’s Club, located in a quiet residential area of London. The plan, which is part of the project’s efforts to achieve a BREEAM Excellent rating, focuses on improving indoor air quality through a series of strategies to minimise air pollutants during and after construction.
The plan outlines various measures, such as using low-emission building materials, installing air filtration systems, and ensuring proper ventilation throughout the building. Key efforts include protecting the HVAC system from contaminants during construction and conducting pre-occupancy air flush-outs to remove any residual pollutants.
Additionally, third-party testing is recommended to measure formaldehyde and volatile organic compound (VOC) levels before the building is occupied. These tests will ensure that air quality meets the required standards. The plan also emphasises the importance of post-construction maintenance, advising building managers to routinely inspect and maintain ventilation systems to keep air quality in check.
By following these guidelines, the project aims to create a healthy indoor environment for future occupants, ensuring that air quality is managed effectively throughout the building's lifecycle.
We recently carried out a BREEAM air test at a site in Hoddesdon to evaluate indoor air quality. Our goal was to measure the concentrations of formaldehyde and total volatile organic compounds (TVOCs) to ensure the environment met BREEAM standards.
During our assessment, we collected air samples from various locations within the building, including offices and hallways. We focused on identifying levels of formaldehyde and TVOCs, critical indicators of indoor air quality. The results revealed that while formaldehyde concentrations were within permissible limits, TVOC levels significantly exceeded the maximum allowable concentration of 300 µg/m³ in several areas.
Specifically, the first-floor offices and hallways in Units 1, 3, and 4 showed TVOC levels ranging from 407.7 to 1528.5 µg/m³, surpassing BREEAM requirements. These elevated levels suggest a need for immediate action to improve ventilation and reduce contaminant concentrations.
Our recommendations included ventilating the affected units for at least 24 hours before re-testing and implementing an indoor air quality plan to manage and reduce TVOC levels. These measures will help the facility achieve compliance with BREEAM standards and ensure a healthier indoor environment for occupants.
This project highlights the importance of regular air quality monitoring and proactive measures to maintain safe and comfortable indoor spaces, ensuring adherence to environmental standards and protecting occupant health.
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