by Brianna Crandall — February 25, 2011—Standards provider ASTM International has recently released new standards pertaining to the assessment of fungal growth leading to mold; the installation and use of radiant barrier systems used for thermal insulation in building construction; and defining the methods of moving tangible property.
ASTM D7338, Guide for the Assessment of Fungal Growth in Buildings was developed to provide a go-to reference for anyone testing for mold in buildings. Driven by the lack of consensus standards in the fungal sampling and analysis practice the standard is intended to bring consistency, reliability and accuracy to the practice and will be useful to consultants, educators, building owners, insurers, lawyers and others concerned with mold.
ASTM C1744, Practice for Installation and Use of Radiant Barrier Systems (RBS) in Commercial/Industrial Building Construction provides important information to both users and installers of radiant barrier systems used for thermal insulation, including manufacturers, architects, building departments, energy consultants and government agencies. The standard explains in plain terms how the quality of materials and proper installation are keys to maintaining the effectiveness, safety and durability of radiant barrier systems, and how to install and use the systems to achieve maximum performance.
ASTM E2671, Practice for Defining Movements, Shipments and Transfers of Tangible Property clarifies terms commonly used by entities that deal with tangible property, namely “movement,” “shipment” and “transfer.” ASTM says it is useful for any entity that manages or controls tangible property or assets, and will lend itself to communicating the definitions and differences to auditors who may review an entity’s policy and procedures.
