Home > Blog > What to Expect During a Ventilation Validation Visit
If you have not had independent ventilation validation before, or you are switching providers, here is what the process looks like from start to finish.
Before the Visit
- Scoping: We discuss what needs testing (which areas, which systems), review any available drawings or previous reports, and agree a schedule that works around clinical operations.
- Documentation request: We ask for the design specification, commissioning data, and any relevant drawings. For Part B verification, we will want the previous year’s results for comparison.
- Access arrangements: We confirm what access is needed (ceiling voids, plant rooms, theatre suites) and coordinate with your estates team on timing, permits, and any clinical restrictions.
During the Visit
- Setup: We arrive with calibrated instruments (anemometers, manometers, particle counters, DOP/DPC test rigs as required) and set up in the first area.
- Testing: Systematic measurement of all parameters against the design specification or previous baseline. This includes air change rates, pressure differentials, UCV performance, HEPA integrity, and environmental conditions.
- Real-time communication: If we find something significant (a failed HEPA, a collapsed pressure regime), we flag it immediately to your estates team rather than waiting for the report. Critical safety issues are never sat on.
- Minimal disruption: We work around clinical schedules. Theatre validation typically happens during maintenance windows or when theatres are not in use.
After the Visit
- Reporting: You receive a clear, structured report within an agreed timeframe. Every result is presented against the acceptance criteria with a clear pass/fail verdict.
- Remedial actions: Any failures or areas of concern are listed with prioritised recommendations. We explain what needs fixing and why, in language that makes sense to both engineers and non-technical stakeholders.
- Trend data: For Part B verification, we include comparison against previous years where available, helping you spot gradual deterioration before it becomes a failure.
How Long Does It Take?
- Single operating theatre: typically 1-2 days
- Multi-theatre suite: 3-5 days
- Full hospital verification programme: scoped individually
Questions?
If you are planning validation or verification and want to discuss your specific requirements, get in touch. We are happy to talk through the process before you commit to anything. See our HTM 03-01 validation and verification services.
Planning a Validation or Verification Visit?
Let’s talk through the process before you commit to anything.
