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PSA performance specification: Setting the standard for raised access floors
The PSA: 2021 specification for raised access floors, or PSA MOB PF2 PS/SPU 2021 to give it its full title, gives architects and specifiers confidence in the longevity and sustainability of the products they choose for their new-build, renovation and fit-out projects.
The PSA: 2021 spec is the long-standing go-to standard of testing for raised access floors in the UK & Ireland for 3 key reasons:
- PSA-grade raised access floors are independently tested and verified
- The PSA offers a simple pass or fail
- The PSA guarantees a full 25-year warranty.
Ultimate performance, leading standards
PSA: 2021 is the de facto specification for raised access floors in the UK & Ireland. Compared to the equivalent European standard EN 12825: 2001, the PSA: 2021 specification, grades and testing methods are the benchmarks for raised access flooring within high-performance buildings.
How does this compare to the EN specification?
- The EN 12825: 2001 has 72 performance standards, which architects and specifiers find confusing and open to misunderstanding.
- The EN 12825: 2001 only accounts for vertical loading, unlike the PSA which is far more extensive. As well as that, the EN 12825: 2001 ignores pedestal heights.
- With EN 12825: 2001, there is no independent testing. It is down to each manufacturer to test and self-certify, which is open to bias, misinterpretation and incorrect information.
- Under the PSA Standard: 2021 all products must be guaranteed for 25 years. With EN 12825: 2001, no guarantee is required.
| How they differ | PSA: 2021 | EN 12825: 2001 |
| Independently tested and certified | ✅ | ❌ |
| 25-year system guarantee | ✅ | ❌ |
| Clear guidance on loads & suitable applications | ✅ | ❌ |
| Highest quality safety & performance | ✅ | ❌ |
How is the PSA: 2021 a more comprehensive testing procedure?
To achieve a PSA: 2021 grade, a raised access floor system must undergo a series of stringent independent testing procedures, which includes analysis of:
- Structure
- Loadings
- Weight
- Hygrothermal properties
- Fire and safety
- Acoustic performance
- Use of floor coverings
- Electrical requirements
- Contaminant effects
- Durability
- Transportation
- Installation.
The result of a PSA: 2021 test is either a 'pass' or 'fail' and very clear in terms of performance, strength and suitability. By choosing an access flooring system with a PSA: 2021 specification, architects get unsurpassed testing to safeguard their client's investment and ensure the ultimate in long-lasting performance.
Contact our Specification Team
Our team has helped countless architects and specifiers achieve the best possible raised access flooring performance using the leading PSA standards.
Contact our Specification Team today to discuss your project.
