UK construction sector faces challenges over non-certified PIR board use on ductwork says TICA

Concerns over non-certified PIR board usage

Members of the Thermal Insulation Contractors Association (TICA) have raised concerns over the ongoing use of non-certified polyisocyanurate (PIR) board on ductwork in the UK, seven years after the Grenfell Tower tragedy and two years following the introduction of the Building Safety Act 2022.

TICA had initially highlighted issues with the use of non-certified PIR on internally located ductwork in November 2022.

However, the trade body is now also bringing attention to the growing problem of non-certified PIR boards being used on externally located ductwork.

TICA members report that they are losing contracts to competitors using these cheaper alternatives, which is exacerbated by the fragmented nature of the construction sector, making it challenging to maintain a consistent “golden thread” of safety data.

The role of manufacturers in ensuring product certification

Chris Ridge, TICA’s Technical Director, has emphasised the critical role manufacturers play in ensuring the correct application of PIR products.

He stated: “There are several manufacturers of PIR board operating in the UK and TICA is aware of only one PIR product that is certified for specific use with externally located ductwork.

“We have witnessed the use of many different PIR brands and clearly many of these have not been certified for the required application.”

Ridge further stressed the importance of clarity from manufacturers regarding the appropriate use of their products: “Manufacturers need to be clear and unambiguous about where their product can and can’t be used.

The one manufacturer that has certified their PIR product for use with ductwork is very clear about the fact that its product is only suitable for externally located ductwork.”

Ambiguity in product certification

The ambiguity surrounding product certification is creating a risk that non-certified PIR products might be improperly used in applications for which they are not suited, such as internally located ductwork.

Ridge highlighted this issue, noting that the lack of clarity in product certification increases the chances of incorrect usage, which could have serious safety implications.

He emphasised the need for all parties in the supply chain, including manufacturers, distributors, and installers, to take responsibility for ensuring the correct products are used.

This includes clients who must ensure they hire competent specialists to insulate ductwork.

Responsibility within the supply chain

Ridge’s comments underscore the collective responsibility within the construction industry to ensure safety and compliance with regulations.

He urged all stakeholders to be vigilant in their use of certified materials and to maintain transparency in their application: “Everyone in the supply chain must ensure that the correct products are being used.

“Manufacturers, distributors, and installers all have a responsibility.”

The continued use of non-certified PIR boards on ductwork, despite the risks and regulations in place, points to the need for stricter enforcement and clearer guidelines within the construction sector to prevent unsafe practices.

UK construction sector faces challenges over non-certified PIR board use on ductwork: Summary

The Thermal Insulation Contractors Association (TICA) has reported ongoing issues with the use of non-certified polyisocyanurate (PIR) boards on ductwork in the UK.

This concern follows the Grenfell Tower tragedy and the introduction of the Building Safety Act 2022.

Despite regulations, non-certified PIR boards are still being used, particularly on externally located ductwork, due to competitive pressures and a fragmented construction sector.

TICA’s Technical Director, Chris Ridge, highlighted the importance of manufacturers clearly specifying the correct applications for their products and urged all supply chain members to ensure the use of certified materials to prevent safety risks.