Intertek is among the largest users of ASTM standards, with broad application across industries and disciplines.

By Intertek Group plc

Jul 01, 2025

Intertek's Building & Construction Products division, part of an assurance, testing, inspection, and certification (ATIC) services provider to industries worldwide, operates acoustical laboratories that evaluate a large volume of wall, floor, ceiling, and partition assemblies each year. As a third-party testing and certification body serving manufacturers, designers, and code officials, the company relies heavily on ASTM International standards to conduct consistent, accurate, and globally recognized evaluations, particularly in the area of sound performance.

Intertek is among the largest users of ASTM standards, with broad application across industries and disciplines. In the acoustics space, a focused set of test methods forms the foundation of the company's services, including standards for both laboratory and field testing of sound transmission, impact noise, and sound absorption.

As building code requirements around acoustics become more defined and occupant expectations for comfort continue to rise, these testing services help clients meet evolving performance criteria while reducing risk, improving quality, and expanding market access.

Supporting Code Compliance and Market Access

Intertek routinely performs testing in accordance with:

• E90 and ASTM E336 for airborne sound transmission through walls and floors
• E492 and ASTM E1007 for impact noise transmission through floor assemblies
• E2179 for evaluating the effectiveness of floor coverings
• C423 for measuring sound absorption in ceiling panels and finishes
• E1222 and E1414 for pipe lagging and ceiling attenuation

These methods support compliance with the International Building Code (IBC), which references E90 and E492 for laboratory testing and E336 and E1007 for field evaluations. In Canada, the National Building Code (NBCC) includes similar requirements for airborne sound, but, unlike many international counterparts, still lacks mandatory criteria for impact noise insulation in multifamily dwellings.

Because Intertek serves clients around the globe, the use of ASTM standardized methods allows test results to be recognized across multiple regulatory jurisdictions. This consistency is especially important for manufacturers looking to scale products into the U.S., Canada, parts of Asia and the Middle East, and Australia and New Zealand.

Product Development and Risk Management

Acoustic testing is a critical component of the product-development process. Manufacturers frequently bring prototype assemblies or early materials to Intertek for evaluation. Using ASTM standards, engineers and technicians help refine product designs before they reach full production, reducing the risk of performance failure, warranty claims, or costly redesigns.

This process is particularly valuable for companies targeting mid-market and luxury sectors, where performance expectations are higher and margins for error are narrower. Early testing allows optimization of material combinations, underlayments, and finishes that support the desired acoustic ratings.

ASTM methods also allow for comparative testing of assembly variations, helping manufacturers identify cost-effective solutions that meet code requirements, LEED credits, or internal quality benchmarks.

Health, Wellness, and Consumer Expectations

Acoustic performance is increasingly tied to health, wellness, and occupant satisfaction. Studies have linked excessive noise exposure to sleep disturbance, elevated stress, and diminished cognitive function. In the built environment, inadequate acoustic control is often cited as a source of dissatisfaction in multifamily housing, hospitals, schools, and hospitality settings.

According to the National Research Council of Canada, impact noise (footsteps, furniture movement, and dropped items) is the most frequent source of noise complaints in residential buildings. While many countries have adopted minimum standards for impact noise insulation, Canada has yet to mandate such criteria in its national code.

ASTM standards such as E1007 (for field testing) and E2179 (delta IIC for floor coverings) are commonly referenced in Intertek's work with clients aiming to measure and validate real-world acoustic performance. These methods support more informed design decisions and can help prevent occupant complaints or code issues after construction is complete.

Participation in Standards Development

Intertek is also active in the development of acoustic testing standards through ASTM. The company maintains three participants on the committee on building and environmental acoustics (E33), with team members chairing task groups, serving as subcommittee officers, and contributing field-based technical insight.

This participation ensures that evolving standards reflect practical considerations and real-world test conditions. It also provides early visibility into proposed changes and their potential impact on clients’ products or performance targets.

In addition, Intertek relies on the ASTM Compass platform to access both current and historical versions of relevant standards. This tool is particularly valuable when comparing results across time or evaluating the effect of test-method updates on legacy data.

Looking Ahead

As acoustic requirements continue to evolve, particularly around low-frequency sound control and impact noise, ASTM standards will remain a cornerstone of Intertek's testing and consulting strategy. With rising demand for wellness-focused buildings, improved occupant experiences, and higher-performing materials, testing data that meets ASTM benchmarks provides a critical foundation for credibility and compliance.

Whether the objective is meeting code requirements, improving resident comfort, or supporting product differentiation in competitive markets, ASTM-based test data continues to play a central role in how building products are developed, evaluated, and specified.

Company Snapshot

Headquarters: London, U.K.; U.S. locations in York, PA (acoustical labs) and Plano, TX.

Description: Intertek offers innovative solutions that encompass every aspect of life, through assurance, testing, inspection, and certification (ATIC) services to our customers around the world.

Founded: 1885 (Intertek formed through mergers.)

Employees: > 45,000 globally

Industry Focus: Testing, inspection, certification, and assurance across sectors including building & construction, energy, transportation, textiles, electronics, and consumer goods.