ISO 16000-28:2020

Overview

ISO 16000-28:2020 - "Indoor air - Part 28: Determination of odour emissions from building products using test chambers" specifies a laboratory method and evaluation procedures for measuring odours emitted from building products and materials. The standard defines how to collect air samples from emission test chambers (as per ISO 16000-9 and EN 16516), how to handle specimens (referencing ISO 16000-11), and how to assess odour using trained sensory panels.

Keywords: ISO 16000-28:2020, odour emissions, indoor air, test chambers, building products, sensory panel.

Key topics and technical requirements

• Test method framework: Uses emission test chambers defined in ISO 16000-9 and aligned with EN 16516 for representing indoor exposure scenarios.
• Sampling and sample handling: Specifies sampling, transport and storage procedures for odour samples in containers (bags/canisters) and conditioning/handling requirements drawn from ISO 16000-11 and EN 16516.
• Test facilities and equipment: Defines requirements for test room and recovery room setups, sampling devices (funnels, presentation systems, containers) and chamber background odour control.
• Sensory evaluation: Details panel management (panel leader duties), panel selection, training, code of conduct, recommended panel sizes for different assessments, and procedures for acceptability, perceived intensity and hedonic tone.
• Comparative scales and calibration: Includes a comparative scale methodology for perceived intensity, set-up and check-up procedures, and calibration checks (e.g., measurement of acetone concentration for device calibration).
• Data analysis and reporting: Describes statistical treatment (mean, standard deviation, accuracy), handling of confidence intervals and required elements of the test report.
• Informative annexes: Practical guidance on panel training, general sensory-testing conditions, sampling containers and example statistical analysis.

Practical applications and users

• Manufacturers and product developers use ISO 16000-28 to assess and reduce odour impact of construction materials, furnishings and consumer products.
• Independent test laboratories apply the method to produce reproducible odour emission data for compliance testing, R&D and quality control.
• Indoor air quality consultants, architects and specifiers rely on odour data to select low-odour materials and to predict occupant comfort.
• Regulatory bodies and certification schemes may reference the standard when defining acceptable odour performance or labeling criteria.

Related standards

• ISO 16000-9 (emission test chamber method)
• ISO 16000-11 (sampling, specimen preparation)
• EN 16516 (assessment of emissions into indoor air)
• ISO 5492 (olfactory-related terminology)

ISO 16000-28:2020 is part of the broader ISO 16000 series on indoor air quality and provides a sensory complement to chemical emission testing for a complete assessment of odour impact.