The idea for the certification was born when founder and CEO of ASL, Dr. John McKeon, was working in the ER and realised that people impacted by asthma and allergies needed science-backed guidance on household products that would support healthier indoor air. The certification program has since expanded to include more product and material categories, which all contribute in unique ways to IAQ. In recent years, the demand for healthy interiors in homes, schools, and office buildings has become a foremost priority, but a lack of clear regulation around health claims on household products and building materials has led to “well-washing.” This problem highlights the need for trusted sources and the asthma & allergy friendly certification mark has become a clear signpost for designers, building professionals, and consumers looking for products that support healthier indoor air for everyone.

As consumer demand for products that support health and well-being continues to grow, it is more crucial than ever that product health claims are backed by science. Because of its strict scientific standards, the asthma & allergy friendly certification program provides third-party credibility and reassurance to consumers. The program takes a whole-of-home approach to healthier indoor air, and its suite of over 50 certification standards assess products as diverse as paint, insulation, cleaning products, air cleaners, HVAC systems, washers and dryers, flooring, and bedding. Clients are provided with promotional and marketing support, findings from research, and access to extensive educational material, including videos and webinars and an exclusive “Knowledge Café” available through a tailored client portal.

One crucial segment within the program evaluates air purification technologies, acknowledging their substantial impact on enhancing IAQ for inhabitants. Portable air purifiers, such as those employing HEPA filters, activated carbon, or hybrid filtration systems, are well-suited for areas of high activity, such as kitchens, or for spaces where individuals spend the majority of their time, like bedrooms. An alternative approach lies in integrating whole-home air purification systems, like HEPA filters, UV-C, or electrostatic precipitators, into household HVAC systems. Manufacturers looking to certify their device or product submit relevant technical information and samples for testing. Assessment under the certification program scrutinizes these devices for functionality and safety, testing their efficacy in eliminating common allergens, like pet dander, dust mite allergens, and pollens, known to trigger issues for individuals. Strict criteria govern the performance standards necessary for certification. Potentially dangerous by-products, and the off-gassing of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are also assessed during our analysis so that consumers can be confident their certified air cleaning products will contribute to a healthier home environment.