Key takeaways from the Approved Document F
To quote directly from the document “ The key aim of the requirement of Part F is that a ventilation system is provided that, under normal conditions, is capable of limiting the accumulation of moisture, which could lead to mould growth, and pollutants originating within a building which would otherwise become a hazard to the health”.
Ventilation should not simply be regarded as an extractor fan and in order to ensure ventilation is adequate with the most common forms of ventilation there needs to be consideration for many facts such as;
- Back ground ventilation
- Undercuts to doors
- Maintenance and the provision of information to the user
The document also states that fixed mechanical ventilation systems need to be commissioned. Commissioning means that ventilation systems are tested to ensure that the correct flow rates are being achieved and the relevant information provided to the appropriate peoples namely the user and the building control body. Unfortunately it is this part that is far too often overlooked.