Expanded Choices in Floor Coverings as Standards Organisation Launches New Certification Encompassing Asthma Triggers

Certain floor coverings have long been considered suboptimal for those impacted by asthma and allergies but a new certification standard developed by ASL brings new science to the debate.

Building on its mission to help people #StayWell by breathing healthy indoor air, the new ASL standard scientifically determines if innovative “soft” flooring products can be certified asthma & allergy friendly®. The Certification offers a credible tool for consumers, to identify a floor covering that is more suitable for their homes or workplaces.

ASL has created dozens of standards across a wide range of product categories, including building materials, consumer electronics and textiles. The standards are developed through extensive scientific product testing in consultation with subject matter experts including medical professionals. The certification helps those impacted by asthma and allergies to make informed decisions to optimize indoor air quality.

Traditionally, some ‘soft surface’ flooring has been considered to be a reservoir for dust mite allergen and other allergens, and that these allergens then frequently become airborne. Recent innovations in flooring technology mean it is possible to combine the comfort of traditional carpet with the cleanability and durability of a resilient or “hard surface” flooring.

CERTIFIED asthma & allergy friendly® soft flooring is evaluated using a selection of real allergens. In order for a soft flooring to be CERTIFIED, it must be possible to remove 75% of the allergen from the floor covering through standard cleaning, and it must be possible to maintain low levels of airborne particles.

In the past, some floor coverings have also been found to emit Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs). VOCs can be an irritant for those with sensitive airways. CERTIFIED soft flooring is tested to ensure that VOCs are at an extremely low level.

Dr John McKeon, CEO of ASL, said, “Over 65 million Americans have asthma or allergies. This new standard provides the science that a flooring product that has been certified has a low capacity for allergen retention, and can play a role in a healthy indoor air action plan.”

Tarkett’s Powerbond® RS is World’s First CERTIFIED asthma & allergy friendly® Soft Surface Flooring

Tarkett’s Powerbond® RS flooring, is the world’s first soft surface flooring to achieve the new asthma & allergy friendly® certification. Powerbond RS is a hybrid resilient flooring, meaning it combines the look and feel of carpet with the durability and cleanability of a resilient surface. Made with an impermeable, closed-cell cushion backing and installed with chemically welded seams, Powerbond RS provides a wall-to-wall moisture barrier to prevent mold and mildew. In addition, its low pile height allows for the easy removal of dust and allergens. In testing, 95 percent of allergens were removed effectively with a simple dry vacuuming.

Exacerbation of asthma, allergies and other respiratory illnesses has been linked to exposure to indoor air pollutants, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Powerbond RS is made with low VOCs, including its pre-applied adhesive, ensuring the product installs quickly and contributes to healthy indoor air quality over the life of the floor.

“Powerbond was introduced in 1967 and, decades later, is still ahead of its time,” said Roxane Spears, vice president, sustainability for Tarkett North America. “Health and wellbeing are important topics for our customers. Powerbond RS was specifically developed to address potential problems associated with indoor air quality and building-related illness. This type of third-party certification gives validity to the innovative work Tarkett has done to create healthy, sustainable products.”