Indoor Air Quality

Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) refers to the air quality within and around buildings and structures, especially as it relates to the health and comfort of building occupants. Understanding and controlling common pollutants indoors can help reduce your risk of indoor health concerns.

 Common IAQ complaints include:

• Comfort factors; carbon dioxide, temperature, humidity, and air exchange rate
• Carbon monoxide (CO)
• Volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
• Biological contaminants
• Airborne particulates

Reporting IAQ Concerns

Contact EHS @6103 or Physical Plant Work Request for the following concerns:

• Visible signs of possible mold
• Temperature or humidity issues
• Leaks or moisture issues
• Particulates or dirt coming from the HVAC system
• Facility cleanliness
• Odors (sewer, rotten eggs)
• Stagnant or stale air

Mold

Here are some tips for avoiding mold growth in your work area:

• The key to mold control is moisture control. Report any evidence or signs of excess moisture, condensation, leaks, etc. to Physical Plant for investigation of the source
• Reduce humidity
• Avoid portable humidifiers
• Completely dry damp or wet surfaces and materials immediately
• Do not block or shut HVAC vents or building air returns
• Minimize accumulations of paper, cardboard, and other cellulose-based materials
• Spaces with thermostat controls: Select a temperature in the range of 68° to 74° F and set Fan Control to AUTO, not ON.

   

Odors

Contact EHS for strong or unusual odors associated with:

• Chemicals
• Spills or accidental releases of hazardous materials

Air Quality Resources

http://www.osha.gov/SLTC/indoorairquality/faqs.html

Guidance on Microbial Air Sampling