Testing, adjusting, and balancing (TAB) is a process where air and hydronic flows in a building are measured, adjusted, and documented to meet design specifications and local building codes. This ensures thermal comfort, indoor air quality, and system energy efficiency.
The Testing, Adjusting and Balancing Bureau (TABB)
Like the Associated Air Balance Council (AABC) and the National Environmental Balancing Bureau (NEBB), TABB was originally founded in collaboration with the Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors’ National Association (SMACNA). However, unlike NEBB and AABC, they maintained that relationship and are still directly associated with SMACNA.
TABB develops the TAB standards and procedures used by Sheet Metal Inc. and works with the following organizations to deliver materials and administer the tests:
- The International Training Institute (ITI) develops classes to assist SMART and SMACNA members in learning the material required to become certified. ITI offers apprentice and journeyman programs and other educational courses.
- National Energy Management Institute (NEMI) offers training for the supervisor level certification.
- The International Certification Board (ICB) administers the tests and certifications.
Fire and Smoke Damper Testing
Periodic testing of Fire and Smoke dampers on ventilation systems is required by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Code NFPA 80. This activity can be a daunting task at some facilities where access to inspect and test these devices is limited and in some cases near impossible. SMI can provide certified personnel to locate, test, inspect, and provide reporting on Fire and Smoke Dampers that meets the NFPA frequency requirements for any facility.