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Indoor air quality (IAQ) issues are among the most difficult problems confronting building managers. These issues are manifested as employee complaints about scratchy throats, irritated eyes, headaches, allergies, and lack of concentration. Many times, poor productivity and lost time are the results.
IAQ problems have increased over the last ten years because of energy conservation practices. Windows that used to open have been eliminated. |
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Outside air and ventilation have been reduced. All of these energy conservation measures have resulted in an increase in contaminants inside the workplace. In extreme cases, buildings have been abandoned and dubbed with the label of "Sick Building Syndrome".
What should Building Managers do about potential IAQ problems: (1) insure proper ventilation, (2) do not put air intakes in areas where
outside air pollution can be drawn into the building, (3)do |
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not use building materials that release toxic or irritating chemicals, (4) eliminate cleaning and maintenance chemicals that contain toxic or irritating chemicals, (5) place high volume copier and other production equipment in separate rooms, (6) do not allow a growth of mold or mildew to gain a foothold,
Hayden Safety Engineers can provide assistance in identifying IAQ problem areas. We can evaluate HVAC systems, sample for VOC, fungal spores, and dust. |
