Leveraging the UK’s Mandatory Air Tightness Testing: Insights and Data-Driven Strategies for Enhanced Building Performance
Tuesday May 6, 2:30pm – 3:30pm
Track 2
The United Kingdom has pioneered the implementation of mandatory air tightness testing, establishing a robust framework that combines consistent regulations, agreed-upon standards, and mandatory energy modelling. Central to this framework is the Air Tightness Testing & Measurement Association’s (ATTMA) lodgement system, which has recorded over 1.5 million lodgements and amassed more than 1 billion data points. This wealth of data has been instrumental in influencing government policies and driving improvements in building performance. This abstract explores the UK’s approach, the role of ATTMA’s data, and the lessons that can be applied internationally to enhance building energy efficiency and compliance.
Since the early 2000s, the UK government has mandated blower door testing for new buildings to ensure they meet specific air tightness standards. This move was driven by the recognition that air leakage significantly impacts energy consumption and occupant comfort.
The success of the UK’s mandatory air tightness testing framework is rooted in the consistent application of clearly defined rules and standards. These uniform testing procedures ensure that results are comparable across diverse projects and regions, enabling a reliable benchmarking process. Such standardisation not only simplifies compliance but also fosters accountability among builders and developers. When every professional involved follows the same protocol, testing outcomes are dependable, facilitating a cohesive approach to evaluating and improving building performance across the sector.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand the Impact of Mandatory Air Tightness Testing.
- Analyze the Importance of Consistent Regulations.
- Explore the Role of Data in Policy Influence.
- Apply UK Lessons to International Contexts.
Barry Cope, AMIOA, ACABE, DipIOA
ATTMA
Barry Cope is the Managing Director of the Air Tightness Testing & Measurement Association (ATTMA), a pioneering UK trade association and government-authorised Competent Persons Scheme. Since joining in 2014, Barry has transformed ATTMA from a small trade association into a dynamic organisation. Under his leadership, ATTMA has established itself as the industry leader, achieving an impressive 86% market share and creating the world’s largest building science testing database, encompassing over 1.5 million lodgements and more than 1 billion data points. This extensive data resource has been instrumental in influencing UK government policy and building regulations.
Barry’s expertise spans sound insulation, ventilation commissioning, and airtightness testing, with further expansion into international markets, including Australia and, more recently, the United States. His forward-thinking approach led to the founding of the Building Performance Hub, a 10,000 sq ft specialist training centre in High Wycombe, dedicated to enhancing industry skills and standards.
A qualified acoustician, Barry also holds a Diploma in Acoustics and Noise Control and is currently pursuing a degree in Business Management and Accounting. His career has been marked by a commitment to quality, having previously spearheaded technical developments at Site Sound Ltd, achieving UKAS accreditation and doubling company turnover. Barry continues to advocate for high standards in building performance, working closely with government bodies, trade associations, and stakeholders to shape the future of energy-efficient and sustainable construction across the globe.