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A
A Practical Guide to Building Thermal Modelling (BG 48/2013)
Richard Tudor (August 2013)
A Practical Guide to Building Thermal Modelling provides advice on the delivery of thermal modelling and focuses on dynamic and compliance thermal modelling. Project teams are increasingly being asked to commit to future energy use and thermal modelling is used in order to accurately predict future
A procedure for commissioning variable air volume systems (Superseded) (TM 2/88)
BSRIA (January 1988)
This is a superseded publication. Please refer to the revision history (below) for current guidance
Acoustic Cameras (TG 23/2023)
Rebecca Hogg (July 2023)
This guide explains how an acoustic camera works, some of the applications of acoustic cameras, and the advantages and disadvantages of using acoustic cameras over other technologies.
Air permeability testing of isolation facilities (BTS 3/2018)
Blanca Beato Arribas & Tom Jones (December 2018)
This standard recommends limits for the overall air leakage of isolation suites in healthcare facilities and also gives recommendations on how to measure air leakage through paths such as doors and door grilles, allowing for comparison against the design specifications.
Airtightness Testing of Raised Access Plenum Floors (BTS 4/2024)
Chris Knights (November 2024)
A raised access plenum floor is a void between a building’s floor structure and the occupied space. This BSRIA Test Standard provides a methodology for testing raised access plenum floors and states limiting criteria for leakage. It supersedes BG 65/2016 Floor Plenum Airtightness – Guidance and Testing Methodology.
Allocation of design responsibilities - example drawings (Superseded) (TN 22/97)
Parlsoe C. (January 1997)
Please note you are welcome to purchase / download a copy but this is a superseded publication.
Allocation of design responsibilities for building engineering services - a code of conduct to avoid conflict (Superseded) (TN 21/97)
Chris Parsloe
Please note you are welcome to purchase / download a copy but this is a superseded publication.
Artificial Intelligence in Buildings (WP 14/2021)
Henry Lawson (June 2021)
This paper is concerned with the practical changes that artificial intelligence is already bringing to building services and what it is likely to make possible within the next few years.
Asset Management and Maintenance Audits (BG 24/2012)
Bell R & Harris J (July 2012)
Effective management of assets requires feedback. A well planned audit will check management systems and maintenance to identify any deviations and make any necessary corrections. This publication provides guidance on types of audits, the audit process and also the role of an auditor.
B
BIM Roadmap (BG 60/2015)
John Sands (May 2015)
BG 60/2015 BIM Roadmap will help an organisation to chart or map their corporate BIM strategy (which meets the Level 2 requirement by UK Government) via a number of clear steps. It will put all the concepts such as PAS 1192-2 into a common framework to demonstrate how they relate to each other.
BMS Maintenance Guide - Plus a model maintenance specification (Withdrawn) (BG 4/2003)
Martin A. (May 2003)
This is a withdrawn publication. This guide details the issues involved in BMS maintenance and provides specification clauses to assist the procurement of a BMS maintenance service. It is aimed at facilities managers and others responsible for procuring BMS maintenance support services.
BREEAM 2011 & Soft Landings (BG 28/2011)
BSRIA (June 2011)
BREEAM New Construction 2011, the updated environmental assessment and certification scheme for new non-domestic buildings (BREEAM 2011), now rewards Soft Landings activities. Clients and their design teams are now able to demonstrate they are achieving key aspects of the...
BREEAM Topic Guide (TG 16/2018)
BSRIA (December 2018)
This topic guide introduces BREEAM, which is a building sustainability assessment tool that has been used to measure building performance since 1991.
BREEAM, LEED or WELL (WP 13/2020)
Eszter Gulácsy (December 2020)
This BSRIA White Paper looks at developments over the past 10 years in building assessment schemes.
BSRIA Blue Book 2024 (BBB24)
BSRIA (January 2024)
BSRIA's annual databook for 2024 is small, concise, and continues to provide you with hard-to-find facts about Building Services. It contains tables of useful technical data, annual building running costs, legislation and more.
BSRIA Power quality guide (AG 2/2000)
Pearson CC. (July 2000)
States that a number of high profile electrical failures have highlighted the importance of quality, in the electrical power delivered to equipment in commercial and industrial buildings. Power quality depends on at least a dozen key features of the electrical supply, including...
Building Manuals and Building User Guides - Guidance and worked examples (BG 26/2011)
Deramchi S, Harris J & Wilson A (July 2011)
BSRIA's latest guidance aims to help those responsible for creating the building log book and the building user guides. The complexity of modern buildings demands that we all have a greater understanding of how to operate buildings to achieve the optimum benefits and cost...
Building Performance Evaluation in Domestic Buildings (BG 64/2016)
November 2016
This guide explains how to use Building Performance Evaluation (BPE) to address issues of inefficiency and poor comfort in domestic buildings. It is a general introduction to BPE, and explains why it is important and how it can be carried out.
Building Performance Evaluation in Non-Domestic Buildings (BG 63/2015)
Michelle Agha-Hossein, Sarah Birchall & Saryu Vatal (August 2015)
This guide explains how to use Building Performance Evaluation (BPE) to address issues of inefficiency and user dissatisfaction. It is a general introduction to BPE, and explains why it is important and how it can be carried out.
Building Regulations (TG 24/2023)
David Bleicher (November 2023)
This BSRIA Topic Guide provides an overview of the England building Regulations, focusing on aspects which most affect the building services industry.
Building Services Analytics (BG 75/2018)
Mitch Layng (November 2018)
Building services can generate vast amounts of data. This publication raises awareness and provides guidance to building owners, and all those involved in the design, construction and operation of buildings and building services, on analysing making use of this “big data”.
Building Services Job Book - A project framework for engineering services (BG 1/2009)
Hawkins G (August 2009)
The Building Services Job Book is full of useful things for a construction project team. It is not just for building services engineers but everyone involved with or interfacing with the services activity. The title reflects its alignment with RIBA stages.
Building Services Reports (BG 71/2017)
Richard Tudor (May 2017)
The aim of this guide is to serve as good practice and to provide guidance in promoting consistency in the industry through common report definition and standard report frameworks.
Business-Focused Maintenance (BG 53/2016)
Jo Harris (May 2016)
Business-focused maintenance (BFM) provides a methodology for utilising maintenance budgets more effectively. The 2nd edition includes the latest methodologies for organisations to maintain critical assets effectively while other less critical assets are managed as well as possible within budget.
Business-focused maintenance (Superseded) (BG 3/2004)
Harris J & Hastings P. (December 2004)
This guide has been superseded by BG 53/2016
C
Choosing building services. A practical guide to system selection (BG 9/2004)
Langmaid J. (September 2004)
"Decision support tool" and accompanying publication provide information to help clients obtain an understanding of building services to satisfy functional needs in buildings. Enables a client to specify the type of environment it wants rather than a particular building...
Classification – An introduction (BG 68/2017 )
John Sands (February 2017)
This guide covers the basics of the important topic of classification, with particular reference to building services.
Commissioning Air Systems (BG 49/2024)
Keith Barker (June 2024)
This guide supersedes BG 49/2015. It explains how to functionally test and regulate ventilation systems in buildings. It has been updated to reflect new technologies and recently published industry guidance.
Commissioning Air Systems (Superseded) (BG 49/2013)
Chris Parsloe
This is a superseded publication. Please refer to the revision history (below) for current guidance
Commissioning Air Systems (Superseded) (BG 49/2015)
Chris Parsloe (March 2015)
This guide has been superseded by BG 49/2024 Commissioning Air Systems. The guide explains how to commission ducted air distribution systems in building, mainly the setting to work of the system fans and regulation of system flow rates.
Commissioning Air Systems. Application procedures for buildings (Superseded) (AG 3/89.3)
Parsloe C. (November 2001)
This is a superseded publication. Please refer to the revision history (below) for current guidance
Commissioning Job Book - A framework for managing the commissioning process (BG 11/2010)
Hawkins G (October 2010)
BSRIA's Commissioning Job Book replaces AG5/2002 Commissioning Management. Commissioning is too important to be considered as no more than the very last stage that must be completed before practical completion. To meet the demands imposed on the 21st century built environment,...
Commissioning of VAV systems in buildings (Superseded) (AG 1/91)
BSRIA (January 1991)
This is a superseded publication. Please refer to the revision history (below) for current guidance
Commissioning Responsibilities Framework (BG 88/2025)
Matt Lowry (January 2025)
The Commissioning Responsibilities Framework provides a framework for establishing clear roles and responsibilities for commissioning tasks. BG 88/2025 consists of a fully editable Excel workbook and a pdf guide providing instructions for its use and background information on the general topic.
Commissioning Water Systems (BG 2/2010)
Parsloe C. (September 2010)
This revised guide supersedes AG 2/89.3 Commissioning Water Systems application procedures for buildings, it provides the latest information on water commissioning for practising engineers, and complements CIBSE's Code W 2010. Proper commissioning enables engineering systems...
Commissioning water systems: Application principles (Superseded) (AG 2/89.3)
Chris Parsloe (April 2002)
This Guide has been superseded by BG 2/2010 Commissioning Water Systems.
Condition Surveys and Asset Data Capture (BG 35/2012)
Bell R & Harris J (January 2012)
This guide replaces Condition Survey of Building Services AG 4/2000 and is aimed at those who have the responsibility for maintaining buildings. Maintenance is vital to ensure a building can operate in accordance with its core function and also plays an important role in reducing...
Controls for End Users: A guide for good design and implementation (BCIA 1/2007)
Bordass B, Leaman A & Bunn R (May 2007)
Concentrates on the strategy, implementation and the user interfaces of control devices for heating. cooling and ventilation, located in occupied spaces and operated by individual users. Sections cover: the psychology of user controls; essential design principles; examples of...
Copper Corrosion (TG 18/2019)
Chris Thompson (April 2019)
Copper pipework is widely used in the building services industry for water distribution.
D
Data Centres - Future Growth and Innovation (WP 12/2020)
Henry Lawson & Krystyna Dawson (March 2020)
This White Paper examines current trends in data centres and looks at what might happen going forwards
DC Power - potential applications (BG 40/2012)
Reginald Brown (June 2012)
If you have ever wondered how to charge your laptop computer or run your fridge from the photovoltaic (PV) panel on your roof, this brief guide provides an introduction to the opportunities and challenges of introducing direct current (DC) power. There are many possible...
Design Checks for Electrical Services - A quality control framework for electrical engineers (BG 3/2006)
Pennycook K. (May 2006)
Describes the electrical engineering design process. A series of data sheets for electrical systems and equipment gives design guidance on design inputs, outputs and practical watchpoints for a range of key design topics, to aid the design process and reduce errors. The...
Design checks for HVAC - A quality control framework (Second edition) (BG 4/2007)
Pennycook K (March 2007)
This updated second edition of Design Checks for HVAC will improve the quality control and performance of the technical design process. This second edition is up to date with the legislative requirements, standards and codes of practice current in January 2007. Good design is...
Design checks for Public Health Engineering - A quality control framework for public health engineer (BG 2/2006)
Pennycook K. (March 2006)
Design checks for Public Health Engineering - A quality control framework for public health engineer. Good design is central to the achievement of quality buildings that satisfy client requirements, yet all too often defects and failures that occur after occupation can be shown to have their origin in design.
Design for maintainability (AG 11/92)
Parsloe C. (January 1992)
States that building services systems require maintenance from the moment they are put into operation until the end of their operating lives. The cost of system maintenance has been demonstrated to represent a significant proportion of the total building operating costs, possibly...
Design Framework for Building Services 1st edition (Superseded) (BG 6/2006)
Churcher D
Provides a framework for allocating many of the design activities needed to complete a construction project, to the different members of a project team. Supersedes BSRIA TN 21/97 and TN 22/97, superseded by BG 6/2009.
Design Framework for Building Services 2nd edition (Superseded) (BG 6/2009)
David Churcher (February 2009)
Supersedes BSRIA TN 21/97, TN 22/97 and BG 6/2006. Provides a framework for allocating many of the design activities needed to complete a construction project. Superseded by BG 6/2012.
Design Framework for Building Services 3rd edition (Superseded) (BG 6/2012)
David Churcher (August 2012)
Design Framework for Building Services 3rd edition (BG 6/2012)
Design Framework for Building Services 4th Edition (Superseded) (BG 6/2014)
David Churcher & John Sands (February 2014)
This edition was published in February 2014 and was superseded by the 5th edition (BG 6/2018) in June 2018
Design Framework for Building Services 5th Edition (BG 6/2018)
David Churcher, John Sands & Martin Ronceray (June 2018)
This guide helps building services consultants and contractors and their clients, clarify and define the extent of their design activity and deliverables. The 5th edition represent a significant update from the previous edition.
Design Framework for Building Services Original Publication (Superseded) (TN 8/94)
Chris Parsloe (June 1994)
The original aim of this publication was to clarify the allocation of responsibilities and duties between building services designers, building services installers and the various specialist companies involved in a given building design.
Designing and Constructing for Airtightness (BG 47/2013)
Ben Cheeseman (May 2013)
BSRIA guide provides architects, main contractors and subcontractors with a broad base knowledge of how to design and building buildings to achieve their airtightness targets.
Digital Twins (TG 25/2024)
Adrian Malone
This topic guide, authored by Adrian Malone of WSP, explains the basics of digital twins and their application in the building services industry.
Displacement ventilation and static cooling devices (COP 17/99)
Abbas T. (September 1999)
Writes to recommend good, accepted practice for the design and implementation of displacement ventilation systems with and without static cooling devices, based on previous and current research as well as the views of consultants and manufacturers considered to be experts in this...
Domestic Ventilation Systems - a guide to measuring airflow rates (BG 46/2022)
Alan Gilbert & Chris Knights (September 2022)
This guide provides a detailed procedure for testing domestic ventilation systems. It has been updated to reflect the revised guidance for Part F of the Building Regulations, which came into effect in England and Wales in 2022.
Domestic Ventilation Systems - a guide to measuring airflow rates (Superseded) (BG 46/2013)
Hawkins G (May 2013)
This guide has been superseded by BG 46/2015 Domestic Ventilation Systems - A guide to measuring airflow rates. With improvements in dwelling airtightness and increased use of Mechanical Ventilation and Heat Recovery Systems (MVHR), getting ventilation right in buildings has become critical. This BSRIA guide will address these issues.
Domestic Ventilation Systems - a guide to measuring airflow rates (Superseded) (BG 46/2015)
Alan Gilbert & Chris Knights (January 2015)
This guide has been superseded by BG 46/2022 Domestic Ventilation Systems - A guide to measuring airflow rates. With improvements in dwelling airtightness and increased use of Mechanical Ventilation and Heat Recovery Systems (MVHR), getting ventilation right in buildings has become critical. This BSRIA guide will address these issues.
E
Effective BMS - A guide to improving system performance (AG 10/2001)
Pennycook K. (August 2001)
Writes for facilities management/maintenance staff along with staff employed by companies providing BMS (building management system) support services. Provides guidance on how to improve the effectiveness of BMS. States that in particular the guidance will help determine whether...
Embodied Carbon - the Inventory of Carbon and Energy (ICE) (BG 10/2011)
Jones C. - Editors Lowrie F. Tse P & Prof Hammond G (January 2011)
The Innovation and Growth Team (IGT), drawn from the construction industry, recently provided a report to the government recommending embodied carbon appraisal. The BSRIA guide produced in conjunction with the University of Bath, in line with the recent IGT report, looks at why...
Embodied Carbon (NZG 4/2023)
Aaron Gillich & Sorcha Redmond (December 2023)
This guide is published by the Net Zero Building Centre, a joint venture between BSRIA and London South Bank University. It focuses on what building professionals need to understand about embodied emissions as part of creating a net zero built environment.
Energy Efficient Pumping Systems - A Design Guide (BG 12/2011)
Parsloe C (March 2011)
The Guide is a result of a BSRIA's research project carried out in collaboration with BRE and the industry partners including Danfoss, Frese, Belimo, SAV UK, Andrew Reid & Partners, Crane Fluid, Herz Valves and Grundfos. It recognises that the potential for pump energy...
Energy storage in buildings - a technology overview (BG 73/2018)
John Piggott (February 2018)
This guide provides an illustrated overview of the many options available for energy storage in buildings, including thermal and electrical energy storage. It discusses the attributes of these systems and their suitability in different applications. It is aimed at designers, facilities managers and
F
Firestopping of Service Penetrations – Best Practice in Design and Installation
Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP), BSRIA, Building Engineering Services Association (BESA), Finishes and Interiors Sector (FIS) & Gypsum Products Development Association (GPDA) (September 2020)
This best practice guide enables project teams to meet their obligations to deliver safe and secure projects in terms of fire penetration seals.
Flexible Ductwork - A guide to specification, procurement, installation and maintenance (BG 43/2013)
Hawkins G (February 2013)
This publication aims to help improve the performance of buildings by providing guidance about the legislation, product standards, design, installation and maintenance relating to flexible ductwork.
Floor Plenum Airtightness – Guidance and Testing Methodology (superseded) (BG 65/2016
Tom Jones (July 2016)
This guide has been superseded by BTS 4/2024 Airtightness Testing of Raised Access Plenum Floors
Free cooling systems (BG 8/2004)
De Saulles T. (October 2004)
The proposed changes to Part L of the Building Regulations will create challenging energy targets for all buildings intended to improve performance by around 25%. For air conditioned buildings, a significant contribution to reaching proposed Part L of the Building Regulations...
G
Green Building and Sustainability (TG 15/2019)
David Bleicher (August 2019)
This Topic Guide explains the concepts of green building and sustainability, and outlines some of the available assessment methods.
Guidance and the standard specification for thermal imaging of LV electrical installations (FMS 5/99)
Pearson C & Barnard N (Oscar Faber) (February 1999)
Writes for specifiers such as consulting engineers and building operators, also electrical plant manufacturers and thermal imaging practitioners. In two parts - 1) The Guidance Document, intended to be used with the Standard Specification. Provide relevant information, procedures...
Guidance and the standard specification for water services risk assessment (FMS 4/99)
Brown R. & Roper M. (May 1999)
States the Standard Specification for Water Services Risk Assessment provides the basis for a contract between the Client and Contractor. The Guidance describes the background to water services risk assessments, and how to use the specification and select Contractors. Chapter...
Guide to Controls (BG 83/2023)
John Marrow (July 2023)
BSRIA’s Guide to Controls is aimed at people who are involved in the design, installation and maintenance of buildings and building services. It provides a broad understanding of the topic of controls, supported by diagrams and illustrations.
Guide to HVAC building services calculations (Superseded) (BG 30/2003)
Lawrence Race G & Mitchell S (June 2003)
Superseded by BG30/2007 Guide to HVAC Building Services Calculations 2nd Edition.
Guide to HVAC Building Services Calculations 2nd Edition (BG 30/2007)
Bleicher D, Churcher D & Pennycook K (June 2007)
This second edition has been expanded to include new and revised sections and provides practical, easy to follow methodologies for a range of calculations used in the design and sizing of heating, ventilating and air conditioning. The guidance is primarily based on data and...
Guide to legionellosis - Operation and maintenance (Superseded) (AG 19/2000)
Brown R G. & Roper M A. (October 2000)
This publication has been superseded by BG 58/2015 Legionnaire's Disease - Operation and Maintenance Log Book.
Guide to legionellosis - temperature measurements for hot and cold water services (superseded) (AG 4/94)
Pavey N (September 1994)
This is a superseded publication. Current BSRIA guidance on legionella can be found in BG 57/2015 Legionnaires' Disease - Risk Assessment and BG 58/2015 Legionnaires' Disease - Operation and Maintenance Log Book.
H
Handover Information and O&M Manuals (BG 79/2020)
Nick Blake (August 2020)
This guide replaces BG 1/2007 Handover, O&M manuals and project feedback. It covers the various documentation delivered and activities carried out at handover of a building, with particular focus on operating and maintenance (O&M) manuals.
Handover, O&M Manuals, and Project Feedback (Superseded) (BG 1/2007)
Bunn, Hastings & Pennycook K (October 2007)
This publication has been superseded by BG 79/2020 Handover information and O&M manuals
Heat Interface Units (BG 62/2015)
Reginald Brown (December 2015)
Covers the application and installation of both direct and indirect heat interface units for residential and small commercial applications within district or commercial heat networks
Heat Pumps - A Guidance document for designers (BG 7/2009)
Brown R (October 2009)
Heat pumps are increasingly being considered as an alternative to combustion-based heating plant as a means to reduce operating costs and carbon emissions, and are now the fastest growing form of heating in the UK. This new guide explains the design of heat-pump based heating...
How to procure Soft Landings 2nd edition (BG 45/2014)
Roderic Bunn (March 2014)
This guide is written primarily to help public and private sector clients and main contractors procure Soft Landings services from their construction supply chains. The requirements have been developed by BSRIA with industry input by members of the BSRIA Soft Landings Network.
HVAC Troubleshooting (BG 25/2014)
Ralph Bell & Salim Deramchi (February 2014)
HVAC Troubleshooting guide replaces the previous edition AG 25/99 and provides step by step procedures to identify and solve problems found in typical HVAC systems. Covers refrigeration, ventilation, heating and common items.
I
Illustrated Guide to Electrical Building Services 3rd Edition (BG 32/2014)
David Bleicher & Peter Tse (May 2014)
This illustrated guide provides reference information on electrical building services systems for construction clients and professionals in other areas of the construction industry.
Illustrated Guide to Hot and Cold Water Services (BG 33/2014)
Reginald Brown (November 2014)
explains the principles and technology used in hot and cold water services, also known as domestic water services, in all types of buildings. It also includes sections on drainage and installation and commissioning.
Illustrated Guide to Mechanical Building Services 3rd Edition (BG 31/2017)
David Bleicher (May 2017)
This guide provides basic reference information on mechanical building services systems for construction clients and professionals in other areas of the construction industry. Key areas covered include heating, ventilation, air conditioning
Illustrated Guide to Mechanical Cooling (BG 1/2010)
Pennycook K (April 2010)
Mechanical cooling covers everything from earth ducts to absorption refrigeration. The latest in the series, Illustrated Guide to Mechanical Cooling, runs through the entire gamut of cooling techniques and technologies, explaining their systems in easy and accessible language....
Illustrated Guide to Renewable Technologies 2nd edition (BG 34/2021)
David Bleicher & Michelle Agha-Hossein (December 2021)
This guide is an effective and concise resource for people in the construction industry who need a broad understanding of renewables and their integration into buildings. This second edition complements the other BSRIA Illustrated Guides.
Illustrated Guide to Ventilation (BG 2/2009)
Pennycook K (January 2009)
This guide is intended to assist technical dialogue between the client and the designing team during the briefing process, and help clients to identify and raise technical questions that they feel are relevant to their organisation's specific needs. For construction...
Indoor Air Quality (TG 12/2022)
Anmol Patel & Calum Maclean (June 2022)
Free to download - This topic guide replaces TG 12/2021. It gives a brief introduction to the topic of indoor air quality (IAQ). It describes the importance of indoor air quality, its effects on health, the most common contaminants, their exposure limits, how to measure them, the role of ventilation and the law.
Indoor Environmental Quality and Net Zero (NZG 2/2023)
Aaron Gillich (June 2023)
This guide is published by the Net Zero Building Centre, a joint venture between BSRIA and London South Bank University. It considers how the various components of indoor environmental quality impact net zero individually, and how they interact in a holistic design approach.
L
Legionella at a glance (TG 8/2019)
Ronceray M (October 2019)
This topic guide supersedes TG 8/2017. The guide offers at-a-glance reference information to the issues of legionella bacteria, regulatory and guidance frameworks, advice and further reading.
Legionnaires' Disease - Operation and Maintenance Log Book (BG 58/2015)
Reginald Brown & Salim Deramchi (May 2015)
Legionnaires' Disease - Operation and Maintenance Log Book covers the recording of operation and maintenance data for risk systems. It includes a selection of editable forms for common risk systems that can be used to create the log book and covers the latest standards and guidance.
Legionnaires' Disease - Risk Assessment (BG 57/2015)
Reginald Brown & Salim Deramchi (February 2015)
This guide provides a framework for a legionella risk assessment. It replaces AG20/2000 and has been updated to take account of later standards and guidance documents including the 2013 edition of the Approved Code of Practice and Guidance (ACOP) and associated guidance (HSG27)
Library of system control strategies (AG 7/98)
Martin A J & Banyard C P. (January 1998)
Presents a reference document for use when specifying, developing and configuring control strategies. In five chapters, each containing control strategies relating to - 1) BMS plant start/top signals, 2) Heating systems, 3) Air handling plant, 4) Pumping, 5) Cooling systems. In...
Life Cycle Assessment - an assessment of a building services system (BG 59/2014)
David Churcher (November 2014)
This guide supplements BG 52/2013 Life Cycle Assessment - an introduction to explain in more details how Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) is applied to an entire HVAC building system.
Life Cycle Assessment - an introduction (BG 52/2013)
David Churcher (November 2013)
Life Cycle Assessment is amethodology for compiling and evaluating the environmental impacts and the primary energy demand of a product system throughout its life cycle. The systems can be applied to a product or process, assemblies, HVAC systems or whole buildings.
Life Cycle Costing (BG 67/2016)
David Churcher & Peter Tse (March 2016)
This guide replaces BG5/2008, Whole Life Costing and presents a simple process for the calculation of life cycle costs. Life cycle costing complements the move towards use of information models to improve asset and project management.
Life Safety and Firefighting Power Supplies (BG 70/2021)
Tony Mayo (September 2021)
This guide provides information on designing power supplies to systems such as sprinkler pumps, smoke control systems and firefighting lifts. It draws together the requirements outlined in many product and application specific standards. This second edition takes into account changes to standards that have been made since the first edition (BG 70/2017 ) was published in 2017.
Life Safety and Firefighting Power Supplies (Superseded) (BG 70/2017)
Tony Mayo (March 2017)
This guide has been superseded by BG 70/2021 Life Safety and Firefighting Power Supplies 2nd edition.
M
Maintenance Contracts: A guide to best practice for procurement (BG 66/2016)
Godfrey K & Groen (November 2016)
This guide is aimed at helping clients, facilities managers and their organisations to understand better the key success factors in procuring maintenance contracts
Making natural ventilation work (GN 7/2000)
Fitzsimmons J. & Martin A. (June 2000)
Notes the operational, environmental and cost benefits provided by natural ventilation for non-domestic buildings, but points out that the increased implementation of natural ventilation is threatened by poor management and operation in the use of natural ventilation strategies....
Megatrends: Demographics (WP 10/2019)
Henry Lawson (January 2019)
Demographics looks at the size, structure, movement and rates of change of human populations.
Megatrends: Globalisation (WP 11/2019)
Henry Lawson (September 2019)
This White Paper examines the concept of globalisation, looking at long-term and short-term trends.
Megatrends: Smart Building Technology (WP 9/2018)
Henry Lawson (October 2018)
Throughout history, technological changes have had enormous impacts on the way we live and work.
Megatrends: Urbanisation (WP 7/2018)
Henry Lawson (December 2018)
The first in a series on Megatrends, this White Paper looks at the massive global movement towards urbanisation, expected to be in excess of two-thirds of the world’s population by 2050, and the profound implications this will bring.
Model Commissioning Plan (BG 8/2009)
Deramchi & Hawkins G. (September 2009)
Model commissioning plan (cited in Approved Document Part L2A as 'a way of documenting the process in an appropriate way') provides a commissioning plan template for a construction project. It is intended to help construction project teams and building control officers understand...
Model Format for Building Services Specifications (BG 56/2016)
John Sands (March 2016)
This guide, a joint venture with CIBSE and BESA, provides a model format for building services specifications. This will aid efficiency and understanding for all parties involved in preparing and using specifications.
Mould in Buildings (TG 26/2024)
Spyros Efthymiopoulos & Yasemin D. Aktas (December 2024)
Mould and dampness constitute an issue that affects millions of buildings every year. This BSRIA topic guide gives an overview of how mould occurs in buildings, how it can be diagnosed and what mitigation strategies can be put in place.
N
Net Zero Carbon Buildings (NZG 1/2022)
Aaron Gillich (October 2022)
This guide is published by the Net Zero Building Centre, a joint venture between BSRIA and London South Bank University. It defines the terminology of net zero and its implications for the built environment. It outlines the key issues in the design and performance of buildings.
Net Zero Electricity grids (NZG 5/2024)
Abouzar Estebsari (April 2024)
This guide explains the transformations which the UK’s electricity grids will need to undergo in order to realise a net zero future. It is published by the Net Zero Building Centre, a joint venture between BSRIA and London South Bank University.
Noise in the Built Environment (TG 20/2021)
Rebecca Hogg (May 2021)
Free to download - This topic guide provides a broad overview of noise in the built environment and explains how noise is produced, how noise is measured, what impact noise has, and how noise can be controlled.
O
Offsite Construction for Building Services (TG 17/2019)
John Sands (January 2019)
Offsite construction is a general term for making parts of a building away from the construction site before transporting them and installing them in their final location.
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Pitstopping - BSRIA's reality checking process for Soft Landings (BG 27/2011)
Bunn R (July 2011)
Recent surveys have revealed that there are some shocking gaps between the design intention and the reality of some new buildings' energy consumption. This is particularly worrying because the performance shortfall is happening despite tougher Building Regulations. Innovative...
Pre-Commission Cleaning of Pipework Systems 1st edition (Superseded) (AG 8/91)
Parsloe C J (January 1991)
This publication has been superseded by the second edition: AG1/2001.
Pre-Commission Cleaning of Pipework Systems 2nd edition (Superseded) (AG 1/2001)
Parsloe C J (February 2001)
This publication has been superseded by AG 1/2001.1
Pre-Commission Cleaning of Pipework Systems 3rd edition (Superseded) (AG 1/2001.1)
Parsloe C J (September 2004)
This publication has been superseded by BG 29/2011.
Pre-Commission Cleaning of Pipework Systems 4th edition (Superseded) (BG 29/2011)
Brown R & Parsloe C (September 2011)
This has been superseded by BG29/2012
Pre-Commission Cleaning of Pipework Systems 5th edition (Superseded) (BG 29/2012)
Brown R & Parsloe C (October 2012)
This Guide has been superseded by BG 29/2020 and BG29/2021
Pre-Commission Cleaning of Pipework Systems 6th edition (Superseded) (BG 29/2020)
Martin Ronceray & Parsloe C (May 2020)
This guide has been superseded by BG 29/2021 Pre-Commission Cleaning of Pipework Systems amended 6th edition. Pre-commission cleaning is the process of bringing a closed heating or cooling system to a satisfactory state for commissioning and ongoing maintenance of water quality.
Pre-Commission Cleaning of Pipework Systems Amended 6th edition (BG 29/2021)
Martin Ronceray & Parsloe C (February 2021)
This amended sixth edition (BG 29/2021) takes into account feedback received from users of the sixth edition (BG 29/2020) since it was published in April 2020. Pre-commission cleaning is the process of bringing a closed heating or cooling system to a satisfactory state for commissioning and ongoing maintenance of water quality.
Prefabrication and preassembly - applying the techniques to building engineering services (ACT 1/99)
Deal J, Smith M H & Wilson D G (January 1999)
Notes pressure for the UK construction industry to raise productivity, reduce costs and improve quality. Against this background analyses prefabrication and preassembly in the building services sector to: 1) produce guidance for building services engineers, project managers and...
Pressurisation of Closed Heating and Cooling Systems (BG 82/2022)
Rob Clemson (November 2022)
The maintenance of acceptable pressures whilst accommodating thermal expansion is one of the key factors in ensuring continuous and correct functioning of heating and cooling in buildings. This guide explains the principles of pressurisation, the different types of equipment used, and the calculation procedures following both British and European standards.
Project Information Process (BG 78/2021)
John Sands & Nick Blake (February 2021)
In a construction project, it is essential that the correct information is provided at the right time. This guide describes the process of identifying the client’s information needs and disseminating these to the project team.
R
Recommendations for fire risk assessment of catering extract ventilation (RC 44/2006)
Loyd S. (December 2006)
Provides a fire risk assessment of extract ventilation in catering kitchens together with supporting explanation and guidance. Gives background information on the grease residues that can result from different styles of cooking, and on the main components of extract systems....
Refrigerants in Building Services (TG 21/2022)
Graeme Fox (April 2022)
Free to download - This guide provides an overview of refrigerants currently in use, their applications and legislation that affects their use, such as the F-gas regulations.
Refurbishment for net Zero (WP 15/2023)
Aaron Gillich & BSRIA (April 2023)
This BSRIA White paper summarises the guidance industry professionals delivered during the summer 2022 BSRIA Conference.
Refurbishment of concrete buildings - Structural and services options (GN 8/99)
Gold C A, British Cement Association, Martin A J & BSRIA (November 1999)
Presents the second of three publications concerned with the refurbishment of concrete buildings. Provides guidance for structural and building services engineers on building refurbishment options. Concentrates on office buildings, but much of the information is applicable to...
Rule of Thumb: Electrical Criteria (BG 86/2024)
Chin Hang “Kay” Lam (February 2024)
This guide partly replaces BG 9/2011 Rules of Thumb 5th Edition. It provides updated information on electrical building services systems.
Rule of Thumb: Mechanical Criteria (BG 85/2024)
Chin Hang “Kay” Lam (February 2024)
This guide partly replaces BG 9/2011 Rules of Thumb 5th Edition. It provides updated information on heating, cooling, ventilation and public health systems.
Rule of Thumb: Space and Weight Allowances (BG 84/2024)
Chin Hang “Kay” Lam (February 2024)
This guide partly replaces BG 9/2011 Rules of Thumb 5th Edition. It provides updated space and weight allowances and new information on lifts and electrical switchgear.
Rule of Thumb: Useful Information Guide (BG 87/2024)
Chin Hang “Kay” Lam (February 2024)
This guide partly replaces BG 9/2011 Rules of Thumb 5th Edition. It provides updated reference information on a variety of topics relating to building services.
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Safe thermal imaging of electrical systems (up to and including 1000 V a.c.) (AG 17/97)
Pearson C. (January 1997)
Writes for building operators, specialist consultants and thermal imaging operatives engaged in thermal imaging of low-voltage electrical systems up to and including 1000 V ac. The aim of the Guide is to give guidance in determining what can be done in relative safety and in...
Safety in Building Services Design (BG 55/2018)
BSRIA (September 2018)
This second edition, published in 2018, provides information on updated legislation including CDM 2015. This publication provides guidance on designing for safety for both new build and refurbishment projects.
Seasonal Commissioning (BG 44/2013)
Sands J (January 2013)
This publication defines what seasonal commissioning is, the reasons for carrying it out and which tasks and activities fall under the scope of seasonal commissioning.
Selection of Control Valves in Variable Flow Systems (BG 51/2014)
Chris Parsloe (June 2014)
This guide has been produced to help designers avoid problems with the selection and application of control valves used in hydronic systems. BTS 1/2019 Test Method for PICVs and DPCVs.
Soft Landings and Business-Focused Maintenance (TG 19/2019)
Michelle Agha-Hossein & Nick Blake (May 2019)
Soft Landings is a process that, if adopted at the early stages of a construction project, can help the client and the project delivery team to deliver a building that meets the client’s expectations.
Soft Landings and Design for Performance (BG 76/2019)
Robert Cohen & Sarah Ratcliffe (May 2019)
This guide, published jointly with the Better Building Partnership, explains how Soft Landings and Design for Performance can work together to embed a focus on performance outcomes in new build and major refurbishment projects.
Soft Landings and Government Soft Landings (BG 61/2015)
Ashley Bateson (August 2015)
This briefing note provides an overview of the Government Soft Landings (GSL) policy and a comparison with the BSRIA Soft Landings Framework.
Soft Landings Case Studies (BG 77/2019)
Michelle Agha-Hossein (October 2019)
This publication presents case studies of a sample of seven completed buildings that have benefitted from using the Soft Landings process.
Soft Landings Core Principles 2nd edition (BG 38/2018)
BSRIA (December 2018)
This guide explains the twelve core principles which define Soft Landings projects. This second edition has been published to align with BG 54/2018 Soft Landings Framework 2018 and supersedes the first edition, BG 38/2014 Soft Landings Core Principles.
Soft Landings for Fit-Outs (BG 81/2022)
BSRIA, James Gall & Kieran Everett (June 2022)
This guide highlights the benefits and approach to adopting the Soft Landings framework in the context of fit-out projects. The methodologies can be encouraged by any member of the Soft Landings team and adopted by the fit-out project team.
Soft Landings for Schools Case studies (BG 9/2010)
Bunn R & Usable Building Trust (October 2010)
There is a major policy imperative to make buildings perform radically better and much more sustainably. It will be impossible to meet these expectations reliably unless the service given by the construction industry also changes, with more focus on actual performance in use....
Soft Landings Framework 2018 (BG 54/2018)
Michelle Agha-Hossein (August 2018)
Soft Landings Framework 2018 is a six-Phase approach to help the project team focus more on the client’s needs throughout the project, to smooth the transition into use and to address issues that post-occupancy evaluation (POE) has shown to be widespread. It is not just about better commissioning,
SPON'S Architects' and Builders' Price Book 2025 (SPONSA25)
AECOM (September 2024)
Published on the 13th of September 2024 and now available for order. This publication from our member AECOM provides the UK's most accurate, detailed and professionally relevant construction price information. Please take advantage of discounted e-license bundles and share them with your team.
SPON's External Works and Landscape Price Book 2025 (SPONSE25)
AECOM (October 2024)
To be published on the 24th of October 2024 and now available to pre-order. SPON's External Works and Landscape Price Book provides the only comprehensive source of information for detailed external works and landscape costs. It covers all items found in hard and soft landscape contracts, and forms an indispensable reference book for quantity surveyors, landscape architects, contractors, and local authority managers. Take advantage of discounted e-license bundles and share them with your team
SPONS's Civil Engineering and Highway Works Price Book 2025 (SPONSC25)
AECOM (September 2024)
Published on the 25th of September 2024 and now available for order. This publication from AECOM offers material, plant and labour costs from the UK's major live rail, civils and highways projects. A full breakdown of costs for labour, plant and material elements is provided, along with updated labour rates. Take advantage of discounted e-license bundles and share them with your team.
SPONS's Mechanical and Electrical Services Price Book 2025 (SPONSM25)
AECOM (October 2024)
To be published on the 23rd of October 2024 and is now available to pre-order. SPON's M&E Services Price Book 2025 is the most comprehensive engineering price book available. It provides pricing information across the full range of mechanical and electrical services. Take advantage of discounted e-license bundles and share them with your team.
Standard specification for BMS (AG 9/2001)
Pennycook K. (June 2001)
Presents a full set of standard specification clauses for building management systems (BMS). The clauses are grouped into three parts - 1) System standard specification, comprising specification clauses relating to equipment and component requirements, for example operator...
Statutory Compliance Inspection Checklist (BG 80/2025)
David Bleicher (March 2025)
This guide supersedes BG 80/2023 Statutory Compliance Inspection Checklist. It lists all the tests, checks and inspections that are required on building services systems required by legislation, Approved Codes of Practice and/or supporting guidance. In addition to an Excel workbook, the guide includes general information about legislation in the UK and guidance on how to use the workbook.
Statutory Compliance Inspection Checklist (Superseded) (BG 80/2022)
David Bleicher & Nick Blake (March 2022)
This guide has been superseded by BG 80/2023. BSRIA’s Statutory Compliance Inspection Checklist is a spreadsheet listing all the tests, checks and inspections that are required on building services systems required by legislation, Approved Codes of Practice and/or supporting guidance. In addition to the spreadsheet, the guide includes general information about legislation in the UK and guidance on how to use the spreadsheet. This guide is aimed at facilities managers.
Statutory Compliance Inspection Checklist (Superseded) (BG 80/2023)
David Bleicher
This guide has been superseded by BG 80/2025. This guide lists all the tests, checks and inspections that are required on building services systems required by legislation, Approved Codes of Practice and/or supporting guidance. In addition to the spreadsheet, the guide includes general information about legislation in the UK and guidance on how to use the spreadsheet.
Structural Fixings for Ductwork Systems (BG 10/2010)
Hawkins Glenn (August 2010)
Joint best practice publication from ADCAS and BSRIA providing guidance on the design, selection and installation of structural fixings for ductwork systems. It gives an overview of the design process that should be applied to the design of ductwork support systems, examines...
Success Criteria for Soft Landings Projects (BG 74/2019)
Martin Roncerey (May 2019)
This guide provides a simple and structured approach for setting success criteria on Soft Landings projects. It is aimed at clients and client advisers to enable them to identify success criteria and to help them to achieve those criteria at the end of the project.
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Test Method for Heat Interface Units (BTS 2/2015)
Colin Judd (December 2015)
This test standard describes how to determine heat transfer capacity and other performance aspects of a heat interface unit (HIU) under standard conditions or application-specific conditions in a laboratory.
Test Method for PICVs and DPCVs (BTS 1/2019)
Carneiro V & Stonard P (November 2019)
This BSRIA Test Standard presents a method for testing pressure independent control valves (PICVs) and differential pressure control valves (DPCVs).
Test Method for Pressure Independent Control Valves (Superseded) (BTS 1/2012)
Judd C & Stonard P (May 2012)
BTS 1/2012 has been superseded by BTS 1/2019.
The commissioning of air systems in buildings (Superseded) AG 3/89
BSRIA (June 1989)
This is a superseded publication. Please refer to the revision history (below) for current guidance
The commissioning of air systems in buildings (Superseded) AG 3/89.1
Parsloe C (May 1989)
This is a superseded publication. Please refer to the revision history (below) for current guidance.
The commissioning of air systems in buildings (Superseded) AG 3/89.2
BSRIA (March 1988)
This is a superseded publication. Please refer to the revision history (below) for current guidance
The Global Context for Net Zero (NZG 3/2023)
Aaron Gillich (August 2023)
This guide is published by the Net Zero Building Centre, a joint venture between BSRIA and London South Bank University. It considers how international agreements seeking to deliver net zero, how the UK is approaching net zero and the gaps between pledges and actions.
Thermal Comfort (TG 22/2023)
Calum Maclean & David Bleicher (February 2023)
This topic guide gives a general overview of the topic of thermal comfort for a general construction industry audience, including clients, architects and project managers. It includes information about legislation, factors affecting thermal comfort, measurement of thermal comfort and sources of further information.
Thermal Imaging of Building Fabric (BG 39/2011)
Pearson C (October 2011)
This guide includes information on updates to building regulations, advances in camera technology and improved methods of analysing images. It aims to help people involved in constructing, owning and operating buildings with thermal imaging.
Thermal Imaging of Buildings - a pocket guide (BG 72/2017)
Colin Pearson (December 2017)
This pocket-sized guide aims to help you get the best from thermal images. It explains what thermal images can and can’t show, what you can do with them and how infrared cameras work. It refers mainly to the use of handheld cameras although cameras on airborne drones are also mentioned.
U
Underfloor Heating and Cooling (BG 4/2011)
Brown R (January 2011)
'As an architectural practice that undertakes energy assessments, the Underfloor Heating and Cooling Guide is invaluable as a reference document' Iain Robinson, Architectural & Creative Design BSRIA's latest guide replaces the previous Underfloor Heating: A Designer's Guide...
Understanding Acoustic Performance Data (BG 41/2012)
Rebecca Hogg (July 2012)
This publication explains what is being measured to obtain acoustic data and why acoustic data is important and useful.
Utility Connections and Diversions - Planning, design and installation (BG 37/2011)
Bleicher D & Portman J (October 2011)
This guide provides comprehensive guidance and practical tools (including templates and checklists) to assist with planning, design and installation of utility services from the preparation stage to post-occupancy aftercare.
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Value of BREEAM, The (BG 42/2012)
Parker J (October 2012)
Since its launch in 1990, BREEAM (the Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) has stimulated a greener built environment. But what do those involved in commissioning BREEAM assessments actually think of the scheme? This report is based on independent...
Variable-flow water systems - Design, installation and commissioning guidance (AG 16/2002)
Teekaram A. (November 2002)
The Guidance is of benefit to a wide range of professionals within the building services industry including installing contractors and commissioning specialists, clients, system designers, pump manufacturers and valve manufacturers. It covers Design including Guidelines for...
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Water Treatment for Building Services Systems (Superseded) (AG 2/93)
Hejab M. (June 1993)
This publication was superseded by BG 50/2013. This guide explains the various water treatment options available. The guide is intended for use by design engineers, installing contractors and the maintenance staff responsible for looking after the completed systems.
Water Treatment for Closed Heating and Cooling Systems (BG 50/2021)
Dr Pamela Simpson (November 2021)
Water treatment is essential in closed heating and cooling systems for the avoidance of biofouling, corrosion and scale. This second edition supersedes BG 50/2013 Water Treatment for Closed Heating and Cooling Systems.
Water Treatment for Closed Heating and Cooling Systems (Superseded) (BG 50/2013)
Edited by Reginald Brown (October 2013)
This guide has been superseded by BG 50/2021 Water Treatment for Closed Heating and Cooling Systems.
Wearables and Wellbeing in Buildings - The story so far (WP 8/2018)
Henry Lawson (June 2018)
Comfort and wellbeing are increasingly recognised as key objectives for smart buildings, but this raises the question of how one measures wellbeing and how this is then used to demonstrate economic value.
Weather Louvre Specification Guide (BG 36/2012)
Roper M (January 2012)
This guide helps system designers and specifiers of weather louvres to achieve optimum performance.
Wellbeing in Buildings (TG 10/2025)
Sorcha Redmond (January 2025)
This topic guide looks at the growing importance of wellbeing in the built environment, including information on building assessment schemes. It supersedes TG 10/2016.
Wire rope suspension systems - A code of practice for services installers (COP 22/2002)
Brown R., M Salmon. & Roper M. (December 2002)
Recommends good, accepted practice for the design and implementation of wire rope suspension systems for mounting building services components. States that there are major advantages in the use of such systems, as they offer flexible positioning and improved installation...