TD Construction Testing has become the only UKAS-accredited materials testing laboratory in England capable of carrying out accredited testing in accordance with Energy Networks Association Technical Specification ENA TS 97-1 for special backfill materials used in cable installations.

The accreditation strengthens the company's position as a specialist provider of construction materials testing services and responds directly to growing demand for ENA TS-certified sand and compliant backfill materials across the utilities and infrastructure sectors.

Following a significant increase in enquiries for ENA TS-compliant testing, TD Construction Testing identified a gap in the market and took the strategic decision to expand its accredited capabilities.

The newly accredited testing scope includes:

• Determination of Thermal Conductivity (by Thermal Needle Probe Procedure) – ASTM D5334-22A

• Determination of Dry Relative Density (by Soil Compaction Measurement) – ENA TS 97-1:2021 (Annex A)

• Determination of Cohesion – ENA TS 97-1:2021 (Annex C)

• Determination of Dry Relative Density (by Void Ratio Measurement) – ENA TS 97-1:2021 (Annex F)

These specialist tests are used to assess the suitability and performance of backfill materials in underground cable installations, helping to ensure thermal efficiency, structural stability and long-term network reliability.

Darren Ames, Managing Director, said:

"As demand for ENA TS certified sand continues to grow across the utilities and infrastructure sectors, we recognised the need for a UKAS accredited laboratory in England capable of delivering these specialist tests. By expanding our accredited scope, we are able to support clients with a comprehensive, reliable, and fully compliant testing service that meets the evolving needs of the industry."

The expansion reflects TD Construction Testing's continued investment in technical expertise, innovation and accredited testing services for the construction, utilities and infrastructure sectors.

By offering accredited ENA TS 97-1 testing under one roof, the company aims to provide faster turnaround times, increased confidence in compliance and greater accessibility for contractors, suppliers and utility providers across the UK.