EVT & Swab Testing
Formerly known as PVT test capsules, pre-weighed vacuum test EVT capsules test duct cleanliness in accordance with BSEN15780 and TR19
What Is EVT (European Vacuum Testing)?
- A pre-weighed sampling capsule is connected to a calibrated vacuum pump
- A defined surface area inside the ductwork is sampled
- Collected dust is weighed and analysed
- Results are recorded as grams per square metre (g/m²)
- This process delivers objective cleanliness values that can be benchmarked against recognised industry guidance such as TR19® and BS EN 15780.
EVT & Swab Testing
Independent Verification of Ventilation Cleanliness & Compliance
Maintaining clean, safe and compliant ventilation systems is a legal and operational responsibility for commercial buildings. EVT (European Vacuum Test) and microbiological swab testing provide objective, measurable evidence that ventilation and ductwork systems meet required hygiene and performance standards following cleaning or as part of ongoing compliance monitoring.
Our testing services deliver documented proof of cleanliness, helping duty holders demonstrate compliance with industry guidance and health & safety legislation.
What Is Swab (Microbiological) Testing?
- Healthcare facilities
- Food production and catering environments
- High-risk or sensitive commercial premises
- Post-incident or odour investigations
- Surface swabs are taken from internal ductwork, AHUs or ventilation components
- Samples are analysed by a UKAS-accredited laboratory
- Results identify the presence and concentration of microorganisms
Why EVT & Swab Testing Matters
Ventilation systems can accumulate dust, grease and biological contaminants that:
- Reduce airflow efficiency
- Increase fire risk
- Compromise indoor air quality
- Present health risks to occupants
EVT and swab testing allow duty holders to prove due diligence, not just assume cleanliness.
These tests are often used:
- After ventilation cleaning to verify standards
- As part of routine compliance monitoring
- During audits, inspections or insurance requirements
- To support risk assessments and maintenance planning
Compliance & Industry Guidance
Our testing services support compliance with key UK guidance and legislation, including:
- Health and Safety Executive guidance on workplace air quality and ventilation hygiene
- COSHH Regulations – control of hazardous substances
- TR19 – internal cleanliness of ventilation systems
- BS EN 15780 – cleanliness levels for HVAC systems
Testing provides documented evidence that supports statutory duties under health and safety law.
When EVT & Swab Testing Is Recommended
- Following ductwork or ventilation cleaning
- In food preparation and catering facilities
- In healthcare and clinical environments
- Where occupants report odours or air quality concerns
- During compliance audits or inspections
- As part of a planned preventative maintenance programme
What You Receive
- On-site sampling by trained technicians
- Laboratory-analysed test results
- Clear, easy-to-understand reporting
- Documented evidence suitable for audits and inspections
- Practical recommendations where results exceed acceptable limits
All reports are suitable for presentation to facilities managers, environmental health officers, insurers and enforcing authorities.
Why Choose Us
- Experienced ventilation hygiene specialists
- Objective, measurable testing — not opinion-based inspections
- Fully documented compliance evidence
- Services aligned with UK legislation and recognised standards
- Suitable for single sites or national portfolios
Book EVT & Swab Testing
If you require independent verification of your ventilation system’s cleanliness or need compliance evidence for audit or assurance purposes, our EVT and swab testing services provide clarity, confidence and compliance.
📞 Contact us today to discuss your site requirements or arrange testing.
