Quality Assurance
Quality Assurance
Ensuring the most energy efficient and appropriate levels of insulation are specified and installed properly.
BCICA members have access to two critical resources to support mechanical insulation installs:
Contact BCICA to learn more the QAC Program.
Not a member? Consider joining BCICA to access these and other member benefits.
Quality Assurance Certificate Program
The increasing trend in the construction industry of minimization or complete elimination of insulation as a cost savings measure has raised concerns within the industry and for BCICA and its members. Adding to that concern is apprehension among BCICA members about the use of non-certified materials as well as poor installation practices that has infiltrated the mechanical insulation industry over the past decade.
In order to combat these ineffective trends, BCICA is offering the Quality Assurance Certificate (QAC) Program. The QAC Program is a means of ensuring that the most energy efficient and appropriate levels of insulation are specified and properly installed whenever and wherever mechanical insulation systems are required.
To obtain a QAC, the work must meet the following rigorous standards:
The mechanical insulation must be installed by qualified journey-persons or apprentices registered in the Red Seal trade of Heat & Frost.
The installation must meet or exceed the standards published in the BCICA Quality Standards for Mechanical Insulation Manual.
Materials specified must meet a technical review to ensure compliance with appropriate industry standards and specifications. Materials accepted for use in the QAC Program must be listed in the QSMIM.
During the installation, a purpose-trained independent inspector is designated by BCICA to inspect QAC projects and report on the Specifications.
Certification is on a per project basis.
Only BCICA members have access to certifying their projects through the QAC Program.
BCICA Quality Standards for Mechanical Insulation Manual
When it comes to mechanical insulation systems, BCICA members have been saving energy for the future for over 50 years. How is this possible? Simply:
Do the job right the first time by paying attention to details as specified by the design authority.
Use materials that adhere to specific ASTM and/or CAN/ULC Standards and are manufactured by an Associate member of BCICA.
Follow best practices wherever mechanical insulation is installed by employing Red Seal qualified tradespersons.
Work to the specifications and standards specifically developed for mechanical insulation professionals.
The Quality Standards for Mechanical Insulation Manual (QSMIM) is the publication of choice by conscientious members of the design community. Architects, engineers, mechanical insulation consultants, private and public procurement officials, and individuals who regard energy conservation as a cornerstone of the design process turn to the QSMIM for design considerations for all mechanical insulation applications.
The QSMIM is published with the purpose of assisting in the preparation of common sense mechanical insulation, fire-stopping and smoke seals, and asbestos abatement specifications while ensuring a balance between economy and efficiency.
Only BCICA members have access to the Quality Standards for Mechanical Insulation Manual.