Innovation Partners for Aerobiology & Biomedical Research

Allergy Standards Limited operate the asthma & allergy friendly^TM Certification Program in America, Canada, Ireland and the UK. These Programs are operated in partnership with the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, the Asthma Society of Canada, the Asthma Society of Ireland and Asthma UK respectively. It is designed to act as a signpost for consumers to direct them towards products that have been scientifically tested to prove that they are more suitable for those suffering from asthma and allergies. The product areas that are selected for testing are those that have the potential to make a real impact on the lives of these people.  Testing standards are then written to determine the products' performance in key areas.

In the last 6 months, we are proud to announce that we have written, and received approval for, 3 new test standards and 2 Addenda to existing standards.

ASP:10:03/101 - Certification of Portable Air Conditioners - tests air conditioners based on their ability to control thermal comfort as well as allergen removal capability and particulate control.

ASP:12:01/101 - Certification of Tumble Dryers - The Certification of Washing Machines has long been a stalwart of the Certification Program, the Laundry cycle now will also benefit from a Certified Tumble Dryer Standard. This Standard tests Tumble Dryers to show efficacy of drying, removal of allergen, thermal killing of dust mites as well as monitoring of release of particulates.

ASP:02:16/101 - Certification of Feather and Down Filled Pillows - Bedding plays a vital role where trigger avoidance is concerned. This is just as true for properly prepared and manufactured feather and down bedding products. The Certification of these products is based on the standard bedding Certification but incorporates proprietary immunochemical testing (patent pending) to prove that the allergen levels are below limits set by the Program.

ASP:03:01/103 Addendum II - Vacuum Cleaners Incorporating Water Based Dust Collection Systems-  An addendum to a standard is warranted when the intended further test criteria do not excessively  change the focus of the standard. Vacuum cleaners that incorporate water based dust collection systems are tested in the same way as a standard vacuum cleaner however the impact of increased introduction of water or water vapour to the indoor environment must also be monitored.

ASP:08:01/102 Addendum I - Hybrid Systems Incorporating HEPA Filtration and Ionizers. Many modern air cleaners incorporate more than one technology reach performance standards and contribute to indoor air quality. One such technology is the production of negative ions. This addendum takes into consideration the potential for ozone generation during ionization while still maintaining the high standards for allergen removal of the original standard for air cleaners.

The continued development of new standards to test consumer products against means that those suffering from asthma and allergies will have even more product areas where they can purchase with confidence.