Record keeping
It is strongly recommended that records be kept of each test to allow for reporting or compliance needs. The following information is likely to be useful when keeping records:- Tester ID number
- Test date/time
- Test location (i.e. address)
- Weather conditions on-site
- Notable site conditions and building information
- Sealing protocol followed
Refer to the test types for a list of information that is required for each type or air test.
Basic test procedure
When launching a test, first ensure the air receivers are charged to sufficiently high pressure by observation of the on-screen tank pressure feeds, or by observation of the mechanical tank pressure gauge in the top of the air receiver. Follow the running a test user flow to enter the required building information into the software and launch a test. Advise occupants that the test is about to start and that there will be some noise and a gush of air. Ask that movement to be kept to a minimum during the test, which will take a total of 15 seconds for a 3-step test. Upon pressing the button to launch the test, a 5-second countdown commences, during which the operator should step away from the unit as well. The system will account for wind and buoyancy effects by measuring background pressure before and after a Pulse test, and predicting pressure trends during the test cycle using these measured background pressures.Refer to the test checklist for a quick reference guide to Pulse testing.
Pulse test cycle
Upon launching a Pulse test, the test cycle will commence which contains a number of stages (assuming a standard 2-step test):- 2-second background pressure sampling – during which no air is released but the device takes air pressure readings;
- 1.5-second release of air, during which time a noise and draught will be felt;
- A further 1.5-second background pressure sampling – during which the system records external and internal air pressure;
- A second 1.5-second release of air, this time at a lesser velocity than the previous;
- A final 2.5-second period of background pressure sampling. Again, no air is released, but important background pressure readings are being taken.
Flowchart of test cycle
Result metrics
Refer to the full list of result metrics for more information on understanding test results.