“A well trained technician can solve IAQ problems 70% of the time with a walk-through at a base cost,” he said. “If a system analysis is necessary, a technician at the level of the TABB certification can solve IAQ problems 90% of the time at the base cost of a walk-through times five. If an exposure analysis is necessary, trained technicians can solve IAQ problems 95% of the time at a cost of five times the cost of a system analysis.”

Woods also went on to say “the most important thing is to have credibility in the data we collect on the performance of buildings. TABB’s certification programs will add significantly to that credibility. A way to ensure this is for engineers to specify TABB in their building specifications.”

Hamilton’s presentation went on to focus on the importance of using trained, certified technicians when performing complex testing, adjusting, and balancing procedures critical to the effectiveness and efficiency of an HVAC system.

“We want to ensure that the output data and TAB calculations that a technician performs is an accurate reflection of the system. TABB certified sheet metal workers have the training, experience, and know-how to properly balance an HVAC system,” said Hamilton. “Inaccurate TAB work puts a building’s occupants in IAQ danger and can contribute to higher energy costs.”

TABB plans on holding more such events during the course of the year. Additionally, the first annual Testing, Adjusting, and Balancing Bureau Conference will be held Oct. 18-19 at Caesar’s Palace Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, NV. For more information, visit www.tabbcertified.org (website).

Publication date: 06/10/2002