The UNE 77270 standard, already published and available in English, has reached an important milestone. Now, an initiative is being launched to secure funding for the next step: advancing the standard to become a European Standard (EN). The goal is to raise funds to initiate the work, and the AMIGO association is leading the charge in gathering support from individuals and organizations interested in this project.

   The idea is to create a Working Group within the Technical Committee TC264 on Air Quality, a space where experts can collaborate on this important topic. Italy is also working on a national standard on the same issue, creating a unique opportunity for collaboration. This initiative follows the model of Working Group 41 (WG41), which was established following the publication of a similar Dutch standard.

   Olfasense, a leading company in odour and emission measurement, is inviting laboratories worldwide to participate in its 2024 proficiency tests. These tests offer a unique opportunity for laboratories to demonstrate compliance with international performance standards and compare their results with peers globally. The proficiency tests cover volatile organic compounds (VOC), semi-volatile organic compounds (SVOC), and odour assessments for both building products and automotive materials. This initiative is a collaborative effort between Olfasense and the German Federal Institute for Materials Research and Testing (BAM).

   The proficiency tests for building products focus on VOC and SVOC emissions and odour assessments using emission test chambers. Laboratories can register for three independent parts of the test: the emission test chamber method (ISO 16000-6/9 and EN 16516), odour assessment (ISO 16000-28), and an analysis check using transfer standard tubes. These tests will be conducted in November and December 2024, with a registration deadline set for 9 August 2024. Participating laboratories will benefit from a detailed evaluation of their performance, helping them ensure compliance with stringent industry standards.