New Guidance on Ventilation and Hygiene for clubs

What is the new Ventilation Hygiene Certificate?

Fires and the risk of fire is one of the most important considerations for club management as it is always on the radar of insurance companies. Ventilation systems since the COVID pandemic, have come under increased scrutiny. Insurance companies are aware of the essential requirement to undertake cleaning of ventilation systems to prevent the build-up of grease and dust in ducts, which will help prevent fires and also improve the indoor air quality.

NAADUK (National Association of Air Duct Specialists), have recently released a new comprehensive guidance document NAAD21, setting the standard for the Ventilation Hygiene sector. It covers both grease and air quality, with the Ventilation Hygiene Certificate forming the core of the qualification.

Jonathan Brennan, Chairman of NAADUK said: “Following the tragedy at Grenfell, it is important to this association that advice is made freely available to all.” NAAD21 is a collaboration between experts in our industry and other associations, putting together a completely easy to read reference document for both grease and air (Indoor Air Quality). It covers the practices and procedures of the National Occupational Standard for cleaning industrial and commercial ventilation systems. This is a qualification that until now has not been available within the industry.

A 134 page document is to be given freely, at no charge to all interested parties. Read here to see how the new guidance could affect your business.

How do the new ventilation regulations affect clubs owners?

Club owners and club management have a duty to protect the wellbeing of their staff and the property’s occupants. Ensuring all regulations and certificates are signed off by professional contractors is recommended – it is increasingly something insurers very much look at when considering cover.

Peter Reid, President of NAADUK, states: “Our aim at NAADUK is to raise the bar of competency and awareness in ventilation hygiene for the many and not for a select few. NAAD21 offers building owners a guidance document to use as a reference.” Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic NAADUK issued several papers on COVID-19 Guidance for Ventilation Hygiene Risk Assessment & Welfare.

Inspection, cleaning, and maintenance of ductwork has become an important part of building facility requirements to meet the growing need for better indoor air quality in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. Along with the regulatory law and requirements – all building owners should be aware of their responsibility to the occupants of the building. They must ensure that an accredited company conducts regular inspection, cleaning, and maintenance of ductwork.

For help with arranging an inspection and more information on what you need to do, contact your broker. At Club Insure, our mission is to safeguard sports and social clubs. We want to ensure you have the correct procedures in place to reduce their risk and their premiums.