Safeguarding
Air Quality Through Comprehensive
VOC Testing
Why Choose Us?
We provide expert VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) testing services to support BREEAM certifications, and ensure the protection of public health and environmental standards.
Understanding VOC Testing
What Is a VOC Test?
VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) testing is the process of detecting and measuring airborne chemicals emitted from various materials and processes. These compounds can be found in building materials, cleaning agents, industrial emissions, and even everyday household products. Some VOCs are harmless, while others can be hazardous to human health and the environment.
VOC Testing Services
The Encon Associates Approach
At Encon Associates, we adopt a structured, evidence-led approach to VOC testing, tailored to the specific requirements of each project. Every assessment begins with a thorough site evaluation, during which we identify the type of development or facility involved and assess potential sources of VOC emissions. This initial step ensures our testing strategy is both targeted and efficient.
We collect air samples using advanced equipment, which are then analysed by accredited laboratories to determine the presence and concentration of volatile organic compounds.
VOC Testing Services
The Encon Associates Approach
Our methods align with the latest UK regulations, including guidance from DEFRA and the Environment Agency.
The results are compiled into clear, professional reports that include analysis, interpretation, and any necessary mitigation advice. These reports are ideal for supporting planning applications and responding to environmental health queries, helping our clients meet regulatory requirements with confidence.
We partner with organisations like yours
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My experience with Encon Associates has been very positive, they were responsive with regards to our special requests and I would not hesitate to purchase their services again and would recommend them to our partners and clients.
Ksenia Agapova, JLL Real Estate -
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I have both employed and recommended Encon Associates for a number of the differing services they are able to provide and without exception, always been extremely satisfied with the cost, timescales and quality of the work produced.
David Limb, Cynergi Ltd -
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Great service from the Encon Associates team. They were professional, quick and reliable in all dealings with us, from the initial enquiry to completion. Highly recommended.
Additional services
We offer a wide array of specialist services that complement our Air Quality Assessment services and are designed to boost your project’s overall sustainability rating.
From Daylight Calculations and Tree Surveys to Traffic Assessments and Acoustic Reports, our team provides the technical expertise you need to achieve the highest environmental rating possible.
Want to gain environmental credits or need planning advice for your next project?
Call: 0115 987 55 99 or email:
Frequently asked questions about VOC Testing
Call: 01159 875 599 or email:
A VOC test is required when a building needs to meet a minimum compliance requirement when it comes to air quality of its users.
A VOC test is conducted under controlled conditions via pumped sampling within strategic rooms of a development. A sample is taken over a set duration at a set pumping volume, and the sample is analysed for its quantity of VOC within the air. The analysis is carried out in specialised labs under UKAS-accredited and controlled conditions to ensure accuracy.
The key considerations in a VOC test include ensuring that sample rooms are assessed under the conditions they will be utilised and maintaining strict procedures to eliminate any risk of contamination during testing. All tests must be completed using calibrated equipment and uncontaminated test samples.
Encon Associates carry out two types of VOC testing. The first is Total VOC’s. This is a test of a full suite of VOC types that gives a resulting level in μg/m³. A level of equal to or less than 300μg/m³ is considered best practice. The second test that we carry out is Formaldehyde testing. A level equal to or less than 100μg/m³ is considered best practice.
The majority of VOCs are harmful to health, especially in high levels. Some VOCs are known to cause cancer and other health defects, therefore, any risk associated with VOCs must be minimised.