Traditionally, the South African Bureau of Standards (SABS) has provided an extensive array of testing and certification. Once the product met the SABS testing and certification requirements, it could carry the SABS mark for a three-year period.

However, in accordance with the application of the National Building Regulation SANS 10400-A, clause B.6 and we quote “nothing precludes a local authority from considering favourable test reports from other sources, such as universities or independent laboratories run by private enterprises” unquote.

There is also a misconception in the industry that the SABS Mark of Approval is mandatory. This is incorrect. The South African National Building Regulations (NBR) simply require that products should comply with South African National Standards (SANS).

Compliance with International standards adopted by the SABS, necessitated a modern facility where efficient and precise testing could be done.

Omega Test House is a testing facility operational in South Africa and originally known for specialising in the testing of plumbing components. They are also SANAS accredited. 

Testing of Thermal Insulation products include the following:

• SANS 8301 Thermal insulation — Determination of steady-state thermal resistance and related properties — Heat flow meter apparatus.
• SANS 826 Thermal insulating products for building applications – Determination of compression behaviour
• SANS 54509 (EN 14509) Self-supporting double-skin metal-faced insulating panels – Factory made products – specifications.