Testing the Efficiency of Ventilation and Air Conditioning Systems is the Employer's Responsibility
Indeed, the employer is obligated to ensure that the tools and equipment in use are at all times safe, well-maintained, suitable for work, and in proper condition. In this regard, employers are required to conduct inspections or tests of the tools and equipment used to determine whether workplace safety rules have been applied to them and whether any changes that occurred during their use may compromise the safety and health of workers.
FOR EMPLOYERS WHO WANT TO KNOW MORE ABOUT:
TESTING THE EFFICIENCY OF VENTILATION AND AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEMS
Similar to other inspections, this measure is determined through the creation of a risk assessment at work.
Testing the systems during maintenance is mandatory for systems with a heating capacity exceeding 20 kW and a cooling capacity exceeding 12 kW. The frequency of regular inspections for maintenance purposes is carried out in accordance with the building project requirements but not less than once a year.
The method of conducting regular inspections is determined by the building project and includes at least:
a) Visual inspection, which includes determining the position and size of cracks and other damages essential for preserving the technical characteristics of the system.
b) Measurements of airflow rates, air temperature, humidity, and noise produced by the system, which are confirmed by appropriate documentation.
The system must be inspected before initial use and before reuse if it has not been in use for more than 6 months, unless otherwise specified by special regulations. During system inspection, cleaning and disinfection of the system are mandatory. Extraordinary system inspection is conducted before any changes to the system, after any extraordinary events that may affect the technical characteristics of the system or raise doubts about its usability, and upon inspection authority request. It includes testing the system in accordance with applicable norms and regulations.
Testing the efficiency of the ventilation system is carried out in accordance with the Technical Regulations on Ventilation, Partial Air Conditioning, and Air Conditioning of Buildings NN 03/07. This Regulation does not apply to:
– Areas at risk of explosive atmospheres
– Systems designed for smoke and heat exhaust in case of fire
– Cleanrooms (such as operating rooms, drug testing areas, laboratory sections, micro and nanotechnology facilities, etc.)
– Shelters
– Garages
– Industrial facilities and manufacturing plants
– Warehouses
How often must this testing be conducted?
This testing must be carried out at least once a year.
Which systems are required to be tested?
Testing is mandatory for systems with a heating capacity exceeding 20 kW and a cooling capacity exceeding 12 kW.
Specialist for this service is:
Tomislav Nimac
Senior Expert in Occupational Safety
+385 (1) 28 52 117
+385 95 802 71 73
tomislav.nimac@anparo.hr
