The latest issue of the Bundesgesundheitsblatt (Issue 69, pp. 710–728) contains the new version of the AgBB assessment scheme (scheme of the Committee for the Health Assessment of VVOCs, VOCs and SVOCs from construction products), which has been published here. The new AgBB scheme contains the updated 2026 list of LIC values (LIC = Lowest Concentration of Interest) and replaces the previous version of the AgBB scheme from 2024, which featured the 2022 list of LIC values.
You can find an overview of the changes to the LCI values in our comparison, linked here (German only). As part of the update, numerous European LCI values have been adopted, resulting in both reductions and increases in individual NIK values.
New test method for acetic acid
A key innovation in the AgBB Scheme 2026 is the introduction of a separate test method for acetic acid in accordance with VDI 4301 Part 7.
Until now, acetic acid was generally determined in AgBB tests using the standard method in accordance with EN 16516 / ISO 16000-6 (sampling using Tenax TA®). Due to its high polarity and adsorption/desorption behaviour on Tenax TA®, acetic acid cannot be reliably quantified using this analytical method.
The methods described in VDI 4301 Part 7 enable a significantly improved determination of acetic acid. However, implementation requires additional air sampling at the test chamber using a separate sorbent, as well as an independent analysis by GC/MS or ion chromatography. This will increase the laboratory workload for measurements carried out in accordance with the AgBB Scheme 2026 in future.
Significance for the MVV TB and DIBt approvals
The AgBB assessment scheme is an essential component of the ‘Requirements for Building Structures with Regard to Health Protection (ABG)’ set out in the Model Administrative Regulation on Technical Building Regulations (MVV TB). The MVV TB forms the basis for the technical building regulations of the federal states and serves as the basis for the health assessment of emissions from construction products in the approval procedure of the German Institute for Structural Engineering (DIBt).
The 2026 NIK values list is to be incorporated into the next edition of the MVV TB, which is currently undergoing the notification procedure. The new acetic acid analysis method is not expected to be made mandatory in that edition.
Whilst the NIK values for 2026 will in future apply as required values in both the AgBB Scheme 2026 and the forthcoming MVV Technical Guideline (expected at the end of 2026 and early 2027 respectively), the new acetic acid analysis method is currently enshrined in the AgBB Scheme solely as a methodological basis for assessment. Irrespective of this, the DIBt already recognises tests carried out in accordance with the new VDI methodology.
Impact on other testing schemes
The Blue Angel has also already incorporated the new analytical method for acetic acid (also referred to here as formic acid) into its current award criteria UZ 176 (wood products) and UZ 76 (wood-based materials).
For other national and international testing schemes, no official information is currently available as to whether a separate acetic acid analysis will also be required in future. Although EN 16516 indicates that sorbents other than Tenax TA® may be used to validate acetic acid measurement results, it does not specify these in detail.
In our assessment, no changes are currently required for testing programmes outside Germany. However, the analysis in accordance with VDI 4301 Part 7 is likely to be accepted there in principle as well. A decision by the relevant criteria commission is still pending regarding the general procedure for the eco-INSTITUT-Label.
Our offer
eco-INSTITUT’s testing body already offers its clients the new acetic acid analysis as part of AgBB 2024 tests. This enables tests to be carried out at an early stage in accordance with what will become the relevant state of the art, ensuring that companies are optimally prepared for the upcoming requirements. We look forward to receiving your enquiry!
You can also find all the information on the AgBB scheme on our AgBB page here.
Source: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00103-026-04230-w (German only – last accessed Aug 12th, 2026)