ASP:23-01 Certification Standard for Window Mounted Pollen Screen

Window mounted pollen screens that are CERTIFIED asthma & allergy friendly^®are tested to the relevant sub-category in the ASP:23-01 suite of standards.

Pollen screens covering a window or door opening are designed to use filters to prevent or limit airborne pollen particles entering the indoor environment from outdoors. Therefore, pollen screens can play an important role in providing ventilation while reducing the introduction of allergens, leading to better indoor air quality, particularly for those affected by asthma and allergies.

Our Certification Standards utilize an algorithm of proprietary and recognized scientific techniques to assess window mounted pollen screens. Specifically, testing should demonstrate that the product works for the intended purpose of reducing pollen exposure, and that in its chemical or physical construction it does not contribute to increasing triggers of asthma or allergy in the indoor environment.

Product samples that pass certification testing are granted a certificate stating that they meet the requirements for the asthma & allergy friendly^®  Certification Program.

Part 1: Reduction in pollen particle allergens

 Three common pollens, representative of various pollen seasons and pollen particle sizes, are used to evaluate the efficacy of window mounted pollen screens. The ability of the pollen screen to act as a barrier is assessed by introducing the pollen test sample upstream of the screen, and measuring the subsequent levels which can be detected downstream.

 Part 2: Allergen removal from pollen screen – wash test

Pollen screens are loaded with pollen particles, and then washed following the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning. Certification requires that >90% of allergens are removed from the surface of the pollen screen post-washing.

Part 3: Chemical assessment

The pollen screen product, including the filtration mesh and frame material must be OEKO-TEX Standard 100 Class IV annex 6 certified or meet equivalent requirements. Testing assesses for known allergenic, irritant, banned or restricted chemicals.

Part 4: Emission of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)

The pollen screen product, including the filtration mesh and frame material is placed in an environmentally controlled chamber, where the total VOCs emitted over 14 days post-installation are recorded. Certification requires that total VOCs and the level of certain individual components, including formaldehyde and acetaldehyde, are lower than the stringent criteria levels set by international guidelines, at both 24 and 336 hours.

Further Information

 Further information is available at www.allergystandards.com, or more detailed requests can be submitted at https://www.allergystandards.com/contact-us/.

Why and how we certify window mounted pollen screens – a Q&A

There is ever-increasing awareness of the chemicals and allergens we come into contact with every day, particularly if you or a member of your family has asthma or allergies. We created the asthma & allergy friendly^® Certification Program to help you improve your indoor air environment by identifying products and services that can help to reduce allergens and create a healthier home environment.

But what is it that makes some window mounted pollen screens better for the indoor environment than others, and where do we draw the line to decide to certify a window mounted pollen screen as asthma & allergy friendly^®? We hope that the questions below will clarify this. Let us know if you have more questions!

Why do we certify window mounted pollen screens?

Our goal in the asthma & allergy friendly^® Certification Program is to create a healthier indoor environment for you and your family, and so we look at all elements of the indoor air environment.

Effective window mounted pollen screens act as a barrier to airborne pollen allergen from outdoor environments. Different allergen particles have different sizes and they behave differently in the air. Pollen is one of the most common triggers of seasonal allergic disease with and without asthma, and it is also associated with asthma symptoms.

Some pollen screens and mounts can contain chemicals that can irritate skin. We also review the chemical profile of the pollen screen product.

What do we look for in window mounted pollen screens?

We look at three things when we test a window mounted pollen screen.

1. Allergen Removal
The first is how effective the window mounted pollen screen is at both the filtration of allergens when the pollen screen is in place, and the ability to remove any accumulated allergen from the pollen screen when cleaning. We test this by inserting the pollen screen into a special duct system. We then challenge it by starting the airflow in-duct and introducing test dust containing pollen allergens. We then measure the reduction in pollen allergen after the pollen screen. After this in-duct testing, we also ensure that the screen can be cleaned effectively as per the recommended manufacturer instructions.

Why do we do allergen removal tests?
Pollen is one of the most common triggers of seasonal allergic disease with and without asthma, and it is also associated with asthma symptoms. Pollen screens are a cost-effective option, which have been proven to substantially reduce the amount of pollen transmitted through an open window.

2. Chemical Assessment
The second test is the evaluation of allergenic, irritant, banned or restricted chemicals on the window mounted pollen screen mesh fabric and frame, to ensure that any chemicals present are at a suitably low level. The product must be compliant with OEKO-TEX Standard 100 Annex 6 Product Class IV or meet equivalent requirements.

Why do we test for chemicals?
We want to make sure that any potentially irritant or sensitising chemicals are present at a low enough level that the probability of a reaction to them is as low as possible.
3. VOC Emissions
The third aspect we consider is how many VOCs are emitted by the window mounted pollen screen. VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) are chemical compounds that easily become vapours or gases. When you can smell paints, adhesives, cleaners, insect repellents, new furniture, printer fluid etc., these smells are caused by VOCs being released. We place a window mounted pollen screen in an environmentally controlled chamber, where we can measure all of the VOCs released over 14 days. We record the levels after 24 and 336 hours, to make sure that throughout this time period the levels remain low.

Why do we do VOC tests?
Exposure to VOCs can cause irritation of the eyes and respiratory tract, headaches, dizziness, and other side-effects. These can impact more on people with sensitive respiratory systems, such as people with asthma and certain allergies. We want to make sure that VOC content and emissions are as low as possible.

What else do we certify?

We have over 50 different asthma & allergy friendly^® certification standards for products and services, addressing all areas of the indoor air environment. Some of these relate to products which remove allergens and dust from the indoor environment, like vacuum cleaners, air cleaners, dehumidifiers, and washing machines. Others relate to products which try to limit allergen build up, or allow for easy removal from them – such as bedding and toys. And some of them relate to household products that should make as little an impact on the indoor environment as possible – like paint.

You can find out which products are certified asthma & allergy friendly^® and read more by clicking here.

Note: This is a summary of our window mounted pollen screen standard which was written for those without a scientific background. For more detailed information, please see the Standard Abstract tab on this page, or contact us for more information.

Embrace a Breath of Fresh Air with Window-Mounted Pollen Screen

As the seasons change, so does the air we breathe. For the 81 million people in the US affected by allergic rhinitis caused by pollen allergy, the arrival of pollen can turn a pleasant spring day into a sneezing and watery-eyed nightmare. And more seriously, pollen can trigger allergic asthma.

Pollen seasons vary in different regions of the world, but generally in the US tree pollen peaks in spring, grass pollen peaks in summer/early fall and weed pollen peaks in fall.

But pollen season isn’t like it used to be. Pollen seasons are getting more intense and longer due to climate change- research has shown that since 1990, pollen season starts 20 days earlier, is ten days longer, and features 21% more pollen than in 1990.

As a protection against pollen in the home, it has been recommended that people with pollen allergies keep windows closed during pollen season or at peak pollen times. Alternatively, an air cleaning system with an effective filter for pollen can be used. Neither of these solutions are ideal and indeed the latter can incur unwanted expense.

But there is a simple solution that can make a world of difference – window-mounted pollen screens. These innovative screens offer a plethora of benefits – they not only help reduce pollen indoors but also allow for natural ventilation, are energy efficient, versatile and convenient.

Shield Against Pollen

Window-mounted pollen screens act as a barrier to pollen particles and other potential pollutants. These screens significantly reduce the amount of pollen that enters your living space, allowing you to breathe easy and enjoy the fresh air. The screens feature a fine mesh design that captures even the tiniest pollen particles, ensuring a healthier indoor environment.

To ensure that you choose the most effective pollen screen, always look for a screen that

• can effectively block the passage of different types of pollen
• can be cleaned of captured pollen – this ensures the screen has lasting performance
• has a low presence of allergenic chemicals and volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions – VOCs can cause irritation of the eyes and respiratory tract, headaches, dizziness, and other side-effects so it’s always best to keep VOCs to a minimum.

Natural Ventilation

Ventilation is crucial for maintaining a healthy indoor environment. Window-mounted pollen screens allow you to enjoy the benefits of fresh air circulation while keeping pollen at bay. These screens are designed to fit seamlessly onto your windows, allowing you to open them wide and invite the refreshing breeze inside. The screens act as a first line of defense against pollen, ensuring that you can savor the cool air while minimizing contact with pollen.

Energy Efficiency

In addition to their allergy-fighting properties, window-mounted pollen screens offer energy-saving advantages. During warmer months, these screens allow you to keep your windows open longer, reducing the need for air conditioning and thus lowering energy consumption and reducing your carbon footprint. Embracing window-mounted pollen screens is a win-win situation, benefiting your home, your wallet and the environment.

Versatile, Accessible and Convenient

Window-mounted pollen screens are highly versatile and can be easily installed and removed without any permanent alterations to windows. They are available in various sizes to fit different window types and are low-maintenance, only requiring cleaning to keep them in optimal condition.

Additionally, they do not obstruct the view or block natural light, allowing you to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors while maintaining a pollen-free environment. The convenience, cost-effectiveness and flexibility of these screens make them an excellent addition to any household.

Conclusion

Window-mounted pollen screens offer a breath of fresh air in more ways than one. With their ability to shield against allergens, promote natural ventilation, and enhance energy efficiency, these cost-effective screens are a valuable lifestyle investment. Embrace the benefits today and experience a healthier and more comfortable living space.

Coming Soon

We’ll have a case study up here soon, but in the meantime please check out some of our other case studies