The Association of Ductwork Contractors & Allied Services (ADCAS) has launched a new flexible duct guide. Designed to raise the level of ductwork system installations and building performance, the guide provides information on legislation, standards and guidance.
According to Philip Johnson, chairman of ADCAS Associates, the guide was seen as essential for the industry due to confusion surrounding the legal requirements and recommended practice facing workers and employers.

He said: 'A lack of clarity within the industry over which statutory requirements, product standards and technical guidance relate to flexible ductwork, has led to a wide variety of misinterpretations by those involved in the design, specification, manufacture, installation and maintenance of ventilation and air-conditioning systems containing flexible ductwork. As a result, ductwork system installations that may not meet statutory requirements and may potentially compromise building performance in terms of energy consumption, ventilation requirements, fire safety, system durability and system hygiene are a possibility.

'This clear and concise guide fills an information gap. It aims to encourage better installation, thus improving the performance of buildings and further ensuring public safety by providing guidance about the legislation, product standards, design, installation and maintenance relating to flexible ductwork.'

The guide, which includes a frequently asked questions section, answers questions such as:

· What guidance should I take into account when specifying flexible ductwork?
· What reaction-to-fire standards apply to flexible ductwork?
· How do I check that flexible ductwork imported from Asia will be of the right size and be strong enough?

To obtain a copy of the ADCAS Flexible Duct Guide visit http://www.feta.co.uk/adcas/adcas-03b.htm phone 0118 940 3416 or email info@feta.co.uk