Testing and validation: why independent certification matters
Credible data builds confident specifications. Independent testing and verification confirm that published acoustic values are reliable and repeatable, so teams can design to BS EN standards, meet UKCA evidence needs, and avoid rework. Use the resources tray for certificates and test reports.
Overview
Independent testing confirms that published acoustic values are reliable and repeatable. For specifiers this means you can reference DLα and DLR with confidence, compare systems on a like for like basis and complete the UKCA evidence chain with EN 14388 and EN 1794. Certificates, test reports and planning documents are available in the resources tray.
Why independent certification matters
Verified test results protect projects from uncertainty. Certification ensures that acoustic performance data is accurate, comparable and accepted across planning and regulatory frameworks. Independent testing means confidence in the numbers and transparency in every specification.
Key idea: independently verified data gives designers and clients certainty that published acoustic performance is genuine, repeatable and compliant with BS EN 1793 and 1794 requirements.
Integrity
Data you can trust
Results verified by accredited laboratories confirm that performance values are genuine and repeatable under test conditions. Independent oversight removes bias from manufacturer claims.
Confidence
Certainty for specifiers
Published DLα and DLR values backed by certification let specifiers design to compliance limits without oversizing. This saves materials, time and cost while meeting regulations.
Compliance
Meets regulatory evidence needs
Certification underpins the UKCA route, ensuring conformity with EN 14388. Verified data makes it simpler to demonstrate compliance for planning and procurement documentation.
How independent testing works
Accredited laboratories measure absorption and airborne insulation under controlled conditions so results are consistent, comparable and repeatable. Independent verification then confirms that the test method, set up and reporting meet the relevant BS EN standards.
- Absorption, DLα: measured in a reverberation room using EN 1793 1.
- Airborne insulation, DLR: measured in a transmission suite using EN 1793 2.
- Verification: independent bodies confirm conformance to EN 14388 with supporting non acoustic checks to EN 1794.
- Documentation: certificates, test reports and UKCA evidence are available in the resources tray.
Accredited labs
Use UKAS or equivalent accreditation for test execution and reporting so results are accepted for planning and procurement.
Methods and standards
Test absorption to EN 1793 1 and airborne insulation to EN 1793 2. Reference EN 14388 for product evidence and EN 1794 for non acoustic criteria.
Documentation
Validation and compliance
Once testing is complete, independent verification validates the process and reporting. This ensures acoustic data can be relied on across tenders, planning submissions and UKCA conformity documentation.
Third party review
Independent bodies such as BSI confirm the test setup, method and analysis meet BS EN 1793 and 1794 requirements, creating trusted, traceable results.
Transparency in data
Verified results are published in test reports and certificates so clients, specifiers and authorities can validate acoustic performance independently.
Confidence in compliance
Validation closes the compliance loop under EN 14388. Acoustic, mechanical and durability checks are aligned for UKCA marking and full system assurance.
Certification and documentation
Air’s performance values are verified by independent laboratories and certified by BSI for conformity with EN 14388, covering both acoustic and non-acoustic properties. The table below summarises the key documentation available for specifiers and clients.
| Document type | Description | Access |
|---|---|---|
| BS EN 1793-1 / 1793-2 test reports | Independent laboratory reports confirming sound absorption (DLα) and airborne insulation (DLR) performance. | Available in resources tray |
| BSI Verification Report | Confirms that acoustic testing and mechanical validation meet BS EN 14388 product standard requirements. | Available in resources tray |
| UKCA Declaration of Conformity | Demonstrates conformity to the Construction Products Regulation (SI 2020 No.1359) for acoustic barriers. | Available in resources tray |
| EN 1794-1 / 1794-2 verification | Non-acoustic mechanical and safety characteristics including stability, impact resistance and durability. | Available in resources tray |
| Specifier guidance | Reference guide on using DLα / DLR data to right-size barrier height and material selection for compliance. | Available in resources tray |
FAQs
Answers to common questions about independent testing, certification and documentation. For more detail or bespoke guidance, contact our technical team.
Who carries out independent testing for Air?
What standards apply to acoustic testing?
How often does testing need to be repeated?
Where can I find the latest test reports?
What is BSI’s role in the process?
Can Air’s test data be used for other products?
Does certification cover mechanical performance too?
Is independent testing required for UKCA marking?
In summary
Independent testing and third-party validation give specifiers confidence that every performance value is accurate and repeatable. Verified DLα and DLR results underpin UKCA compliance and simplify specification. All supporting documentation and certificates can be found in the resources tray.
Need independent test evidence for your project?
Download the product datasheet and access full verification and certification documents directly from the resources tray.