DOCUMENT RESUME ED 353 695 EA 024 645 TITLE Indoor Air Quality: Maryland Public Schools. INSTITUTION Maryland State Dept. of Education, College Park. Office of Administration and Finance. PUB DATE Nov 87 NOTE 46p.; Contains large portions of small print that may not reproduce well in paper copy. PUB TYPE Guides Non-Classroom Use (055) EDRS PRICE MF01/PCO2 Plus Postage. DESCRIPTORS *Air Pollution; *Educational Facilities Planning; Elementary Secondary Education; Environmental Standards; Equipment Maintenance; Facility Guidelines; *Facility Requirements; Federal Government; Hazardous Materials; *Public Schools; *School Buildings IDENTIFIERS *Air Quality; *Maryland ABSTRACT Less than adequate indoor air quality in schools can lead to a higher risk of health problems, an increase in student and teacher absenteeism, diminished learning, and even hazardous conditions. An indoor air quality program that addresses the planning, design, maintenance, and operation of public school buildings should be implemented at the earliest possible date in each local school system. This document provides guidelines to help local education staff responsible for construction planning, maintenance, and operation. Information is provided on the following: factors leading to the present concern about indoor air quality; the two types of air quality problems--the thermal environment and air contaminants; assessment of indoor air quality; establishment of a comprehensive facilities maintenance program; and building planning and design. Risks associated with specific activities are highlighted and control methods are described. Ten case studies illustrate typical examples of indoor air quality problems encountered in schools. The final section describes existing federal statutes and government activity. Two questionnaires (short form and extended form) pertain to the investigation of an indoor air quality problem. One figure and three tables are included. (LMI) *********************************************************************** Reproductions supplied by EDRS are the best that can be made from the original document. ***********************************************************************
Transcript
DOCUMENT RESUME
ED 353 695 EA 024 645
TITLE Indoor Air Quality: Maryland Public Schools.INSTITUTION Maryland State Dept. of Education, College Park.
Office of Administration and Finance.PUB DATE Nov 87NOTE 46p.; Contains large portions of small print that may
not reproduce well in paper copy.PUB TYPE Guides Non-Classroom Use (055)
EDRS PRICE MF01/PCO2 Plus Postage.DESCRIPTORS *Air Pollution; *Educational Facilities Planning;
Less than adequate indoor air quality in schools canlead to a higher risk of health problems, an increase in student andteacher absenteeism, diminished learning, and even hazardousconditions. An indoor air quality program that addresses theplanning, design, maintenance, and operation of public schoolbuildings should be implemented at the earliest possible date in eachlocal school system. This document provides guidelines to help localeducation staff responsible for construction planning, maintenance,and operation. Information is provided on the following: factorsleading to the present concern about indoor air quality; the twotypes of air quality problems--the thermal environment and aircontaminants; assessment of indoor air quality; establishment of acomprehensive facilities maintenance program; and building planningand design. Risks associated with specific activities are highlightedand control methods are described. Ten case studies illustratetypical examples of indoor air quality problems encountered inschools. The final section describes existing federal statutes andgovernment activity. Two questionnaires (short form and extendedform) pertain to the investigation of an indoor air quality problem.One figure and three tables are included. (LMI)
***********************************************************************Reproductions supplied by EDRS are the best that can be made
from the original document.***********************************************************************
INDOOR AIR QUALITY
Maryland Public Schools
U.S DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATIONOffice of Educations! Research and improvement
EDU ATIONAL RESOURCES INFORMATIONCENTER (ERICi
This document has been reprOduced asreceived from the person or organizationoriginatingMinor changes nave been made to improvereproduction quality
Points Of new Or opinions stated in this cfocu.went do Trot necessarily represent officialOERI pOiltion Of pokey 2
PERMISSION TO REPRODUCE THISMATERIAL HAS BEEN GRANTED BY
BEST COPY AVAILABLETO THE EDUCATIONAL RESOURCESINFORMATION CENTER IERICI
INDOOR AIRQUALITY
MARYLANDPUBLIC SCHOOLS
rommmis
NCNEMBER 1987
Maryland State Dept. of EducationOffice of Administration and Finance
Office of School Facilities200 West Baltimore StreetBaltimore. Maryland 21201
(301)333.2508
3
MARYLAND STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION
Lawrence A. ShulmanPresident
Ma\ B Bolt\ ice President
Man Fill:thrill EllisHilliard
Rosetta G KerrIt 00 C \la\ turd\Vilson II ParranFrederick K schoenhrodt
sAlinsonKate stainer (student member)
David \X Hornbecksecretarv.Treasurer ot the Boardstate superintendent tit schools
Claud E KitchensDepur\ state superintendent ot Schools
John E TrioAssistant state SuperintendentAdministration and Finance
Allen C AbendDirectorOtiKe tit It..11ool Facilities
. 1989
1989
198819901991
19921991
199019921988
This document was published in part with a grantfrom the American Lung Association of Maryland.
AMERICANLUNGASSOCIATION
worrrena. Inc
rule \ tan land stair Department ot Education does not Jib-oinlittate ti Cite lusts rite whir sex. age. national
Itanduappine, onklition m Matter% Jifecting employ.11,yot.,1 w pr, A Idint4 at. t. es. a, pn,xrams Fur inquiries related toaypaionymai the Ottue ot Equal Opportunity
William Donald schaefer, Governor
Design: Anne Brant
STATE COMMITTEE ON INDOOR AIRQUALITY IN PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Coordinator
Allen C. AbendDirectorOffice of School FacilitiesMaryland State Department of Education
Members
Rebecca BascomAssistant ProfessorUniversity of MarylandSchool of Medicine
William A. GiesekingPublic %irks Engineer IllBaltimore City Public Schools
Richard A GristGroup LeaderIndoor Air Quality
and VentilationNational Bureau of Standards
Franklin C HaermgCoordinator. safety ProgramMontgomery County Public Schools
Bruce JacobsChief Industrial HygienistGeneral Physics Corporation
Harry W. KatzSupervisor of ConstructionBaltimore County Public Schools
James Lewissenior Industrial HygienistMaryland Department ot the Environment
Robert B. OlcerstEnvironmental Health OfficerJohns Hopkins Hospital
Jeffrey M. PaullToxicologistMaryland Department of the Environment
Kevin Y TetchmanProgram ManagerIndoor Air Quality. Infiltration, and \entilationL' S Department or Energy
Bruce WindsorProgram CoordinatorAmerican Lung Association of Maryland
Arthur E. WheelerDirector, Engineeringflenr Adams, Inc.(Baltimore Chapter, American Society
I !eating, Reirigl:ratingAir-Conditioning Engineers)
4
IMINI111111111111
5
ContentsForeword
Historic Review
Indoor Air Quality Problems 3
Thermal Environment Conditions 3
Indoor Air Contaminants ( Table 1)
Investigation of an Indoor Air QualityProblem . 10
ForewordIndoor air quality has been identified as a new-and complex public health concern Many fac-tors including energy conservation measures.
new building materials. maintenance practices.and changes in building use have contributed tothe potential problems with indoor air qualityLess than adequate indoor air quality can lead toa higher risk of health problems. an increase instudent and teacher absenteeism. diminishedlearning, and. in extreme situations. a hazardouscondition
We are especially interested in understandingand managing indoor air quality in schools hecause younger people are at a greater health riskthan the adult population In addition. somedren including special education students ma%have health characteristics which compound theirlevel of risk.
An indoor air quality program that addressesthe planning. design. maintenance. and operatk,nof public school buildings should he imple-mented at the earliest possible date in each localschool system This document ;us been devel-oped to assist local hoard of eluLdnun staff responsible for the planning of ostruatunprojects and for the maintenance and ,ferationof existing schools We hope architects. engineersschool staff and parents will also find it useful
Our understanding of indoor air qualm is in itsearliest stages. the knowledge if this topic .s illundoubtedly grow and change at a rapid pace \Xewelcome any recommendations for updating ,rradding to the information found here
David W. HornbeckState Superintendent of Schools
1
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Historic ReviewThe type and frequeno of indoor air qualmproblems present in educational buildingstoday are a relauvelt new phenomenon ',et:-
eral factors have contributed to the present con-cern ahout indi,or air quality
Energy ConservationThe energt crtsis of the earl\ 19-n, caused
building owners to make great efforts to conserveenergy Buildings were planned Ind renovated toreduce outside air Infiltration Windt mw and douropenings were reduced and more ughtlt sealed.Outside air intake for the mechanical system wasminimized. The operating times for heating. ten-ni:anon. and air conditioning equipment were de-creased The standards for the number of airchanges per unit of time for a room were re-duced Buildings have become more compact inan effort to minimize perimeter wall surface andreduce hear kiss and heat gain Compact build-ings have more spaces without exterior walls
a result. facilities are more apt to retain psi-centrally hazardous particles and gases from rittam sources within the indoor environment tOr
longer periods of time and in higher concentra-tions than ever before
Product TechnologyThe number and npe of particles and gases in-
troduced into indoor air bt new products havegrown apidl in the last few decades \es\ prod-ucts are introduced each tear for use during andafter the construction of buildings The effects onhumans of the materials in these products iittencan not he forecast Mans tears can pass beforethe dangers of a chemical are re:titled andbrought into public .11\ areness Consider. for ex-ample. the past and present uses of nirmaldehtdr. asbestos. tobacco and soltent, released htglues Product technologs has giten us materialsthat directly affect the qualm of indoor air inways that are of increasing concern to buildingplanners and users
MaintenanceTeacher salaries. instructional materials and
building construction have understandabh beensines higher priority than maintenance , it schoolfacilities in budget decisions As a result. flingerperiods i if time between changing air niters.. leaning ciodensate pans r k leaning and replacIng mechan cal 0.111101:1U hate !ICU \ nmionpiattices in the past The reetaluani mamte'mike practices will undouhtls about as we
understand their relationships to incloiirau quahn The a:A/Joon that the health lit sni,lents and staff mat he affected Is% insuthc lentmaintenance will eletate Its mil...mime tit hudget
Education and Training1.'ople who plan. design. maintain. and operate
buildings have nig received fiirmal educationinset-vice training regarding inch Kir air Lila it\Practicing architects. engineers educational tat lilt%planner,. and maintenance iiperatkins persiinneimat not have recessed training in the link berween their dectsions and the qualm it incloi,rair This and other health-related subiects .ire n, .ticeabl\ absent from the curricula in architecturaland engineering schools Indoor air I, :IIcussed in terms tit human comfort butenvironmental health ractsir While 11i ,p,have been available t en recentlt the% are ti toio
and not specific:alit geared to th, ise poirle nlsolved in the planning and operation ,t taclimes Inservice training sin )grams .lidtonal continuing educaui in tt ill hathe provided to till this educational
Change in Builc:ing UseChanges in pnigram, during the lite of a build.
mg are common in the educatiiinal Held Thesestimulated itts such aschanges can he sumut I I
PL 9+ 142 l Equal Educatii 'nal unin t,Handicapped 'students state and pr, igram implementation FaLilir1 planners !mast :rece...entls modik school buildings nns-datet le change BuildIng changes i,tten take ins
spatial milditications. new equipment it altera-tions to electrical and hgtuifig ststenis %lanktin:es the mechanical -Astern recnt:, little air ni,ciir:esponding change rsultnAt in poor quaiits .1
iota it air due ti o iiser ,r- under lit-aunt:and \ etiolation
Cost of ConstructionInstruction costs hate spiraled up in the List
decades Ti reduce costs. building technil, ,gs l,a,heen used to decrease the 1i IitInIC it a hi.;reduce the number tit w incheducational spaces. and so-ill-11in mechanical st s-tem designs Cost decisions c.in and di, hat eimpact on the qualm i it Inch ,iir tt,'.1(11112.
buildings 1\ ith SON I it- vet-able At .1:`,.1
mechanical stsiteins that otter minimal tea silationunder optimum ciinclitions In the :untie pc -piewill have tii add indoilt air qualm mu, c,,nstrocthin cost decisions
7 BEST COPY AVAILABLF
Indoor Air QualityProblems
Indoor air problems can be discussed undertwo categories: (1) thermal environment and(2) air contaminants
The thermal environment involves several van-ables that cause relative degrees of human com-fort or discomfort. These include air temperature.radiant temperature of surrounding surfaces. uni-formity of air temperature. humidity and airmovement. Adverse thermal conditions can stressstudents or staff and. in turn, affect the quality ofthe learning situation.
Air contaminants consist of numerous particu-lates. fibers, mists, fumes, bioaerosols. and gasesor vapors that can impair human performance aswell as present a full range of implications frommild irritation of the upper respiratory system toa serious health threat.
Thermal EnvironmentConditions
Satisfaction with the thermal environment isbased on a complex. subjective response to sev-eral interacting variables. The design. construc-tion, and use of an occupied space, as well as thedesign, construction, and operation of its heatingand air conditioning systems, will determine thedegree of satisfaction with the thermal environ-ment.
Not all individuals perceive the thermal en-vironment with the same degree of acceptabilityThe perception of comfort relates to an indi-vidual's physical activity, body heat exchange withthe surroundings, and physiological charac-teristics. The heat exchange between the indi-vidual and surroundings is influenced by:
air temperaturethermal radiationrelative humidityair movement
. amount of clothingactivity level
. direct contact with surfaces not at bodytemperature
While ideal thermal conditions are complicatedto define for any one individual in a particularsetting, The .Arnericar. Society of Heating, Re-frigerating and Air Conditioning Engineers i ASH-RAE) has produced a consensus standard (Ther-mal Environmental Conditions for HumanOccupancy, ASHRAE 55-1981) based upon experi-ence and research that specifies conditions likehto be thermally acceptable to at least 80 percent
8 BEST Uri AVAILABLE
of the adult occupants of a space These condi-tions. as they most commonly apply to educa-tional facilities. are presented under the Planningand Design Considerations section of this docu-ment. A more complete explanation of the condi-tions. factors affecting comfort. and the methodsfor their determination and measurement can hefound in the ASHRAE standard Figure 1 is takenfrom the ASFIR.kE standard and summarizes thecomfort levels.
Studies comparing the basal metabolic rate ofchildren from kindergarten to high school withthose of adults in the same environment showthat it is not rare to find the comfort levels forpupils and teachers separated by at least 5°F Chil-dren are generally more comfortable in some-what cooler temperatures due to their highermetabolic rate
Indoor Air ContaminantsIndoor air contaminants can be divided into
particles (solids or liquid droplets) and gases orvapors Within these types are compounds knownto he irritants that are known or suspected ofcausing damage to health Contaminants whichare irritants may impair human performancewithout being deleterious to health.
'tandards for vapors and gases specify a quan-ta\ of pollutant per unit \ olume. e.g.. parts permillion of air ( ppm ).standards for particles oftenspecify the mass concentration of particles ex-pressed as micrograms per cubic meter ( ug m' )These include all particle sizes. or total sus-pended particulate concentration (TSP) Largeparticles are filtered h the nasal passages andJose no adverse pInsiological response unless
the are allergenic or pathogenic Smaller respira-hie suspended particles i RsP) are important he-cause the can kedge in the lung. The size of re-
rahle particles ranges up to s () micrometers( urn )
Particles of specific interest include:Respirable particulates as a group.
2 Till...it:co sin( eke (solid and liquid droplets) i to-bacci) smoke also contains many vapors and
).
VshestosAllergens (pollen. fungi. mold spores. insectfeces and parts). and
s Pathogens (bacteria and viruses). almost alwayscontained in or on other particulate matter
V,ip(irs and gases of particular interest includeI Carbon monoxide ILO). carbon dioxide ( CO, )2 Radon (decay products hec()me attached to
s. ulidisl.
A Furnialdch% de I ICI 10 )( Nher volatile organic compounds VO( ). and
s ( hides .4 nitrogen I NO and NO 1
Some contaminants. such as sulfur dioxide. arebrought in with outside air by mechanical ventila-tion or by uncontrolled infiltration Many of thecontaminants. for example nitrogen oxides andcarbon monoxide, found in the air outdoors alsohave indoor sources. However. most indoor pollu-tants emanate from inside sources People aresources of CO, and hiumatter. as well as othercontaminants characterized as 'hoci odors' Peo-pleS activitiessmoking. cleaning. educational actwines (such as gluing and refinishing furniture(and cookingalso cause pollution Building ma-terials and finishes can also outgas. pollutants
Furnishings. business machines. and appliancesparticularly unvented or poorly vented heatersand ranges. can he contaminant sources The soilsurrounding a building can he a source of radonand insecticides that enter the indoors throughcracks. drains. or by diffusion. Heating ventila-tion air conditioning (HVAC) systems. drains.plumbing systems. and poor construction ormaintenance practices can result in 'environmental niches- where pathogenic or allergenic orga-nisms can collect and multiply to he reintroducedinto the air.
An additional complicating factor in the build-up of contaminants is the non-un&)rm mixingoften present in buildings Concentrations van.spatially as well as temporall\ Pollutants can emanate from point sources. such as an unventedspace heater, or from area sources, such is allpanels These variations add further non-unifor-may to the pollutant concentration
Table 1 provides information about known c.in.taminants
Toxicological ConsiderationsThis discussion provides the reader with some
background concerning the interpretation tit indoor air contaminant levels The nit( wmation prerented here should he considered to (mall eval-uate air monitoring data it is recommended thatall monitoring data he reviewed in detail h\ pryfessiimals such as toxic, ilogists and industrialhygienists
Exposure StandardsTHERE ARE NO REGULATORY sTANDARDs FOR
INDOOR AIR CONTAMINANT LEVELS ESTAB-LISHED FOR CHILDREN IN sCHOOLs Ilumanexposure guidelines for a number of air pollu-tants have howe\er. been established in regu-lations or recommended for other exposure set-tings by Various governmental agencies andprotessional organizations Differences i ibservedwhen vomparing the \animas guidelines usuallystem tram the underkmg Assumptions Ahout thepopulation each guideline is intended to pr,,ieuHa- example. air c( wrammant limits kw the work
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place are comparatively high since they are in-tended to protect a relatively healthy. adult work-force, are not intended to protect the moresensitive individuals. and assume little or no ex-posure to the contaminant beyond the normal -t0-hour work week.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administra-tion (OSHA) regulates workplace exposurethrough the use of Permissible Exposure Limits(PELs). The National Institute for OccupationalSafety and Health (NIOSH) performs health effectsresearch and studies, then makes recommenda-tions to OSHA for new legislation based on theirwork. The OSHA PELs and NIOSH recommenda-tions are contained in DHHS (NIOSH) PublicationNo. 85-114, Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards:available from the Superintendent of Documents,U S Government Printing Office, Vb.shington,D.C. 20402.
The American Conference of Governmental In-dustrial Hygienists (ACGIH) annually publishes alist of Threshold Limit Values (TLVs) to be used asguidelines for the control of potential health haz-ards in the workplace The OSHA PELs are basedon the 1968 list of TLVs. TLV booklets are availablefrom the ACGIH. 6500 Glenway Ave.. Bldg.Cincinnati. 01-1 45211-4438.
The American Industrial Hygiene Association(AIHA) has developed Workplace EnvironmentalExposure Limit (WEEL) Guides for a number ofchemical substances for which there are no legalor authoritative limits in existence. The WEELGuides are available from the AIHA, 4-5 WolfLedges Parkway, Akron, 011 44311-108"
The National Academy of Sciences (NAS) Com-mittee on Toxicology develops recommended ex-posure limits for narrowly defined occupationalgroups (military personnel). On at least one occa-sion they have recommended an indoor air limitfor military housing (the termiticide Chlordane).The NAS Committee on Toxicology may be con-tacted in Washington. D.C. at (202)33+2538.
The Environmental Protection Agency ( EPA) hasdeveloped National Ambient Air Quality Standards(NAAQS) for six pollutants. These standards aredesigned to protect the more susceptible mem-bers of the general population (asthmatics, etc.)and, therefore. may be more applicable for eval-uating the indoor environment where protectionof similar populations is desired.
Many states are in various stages of develop-ment for 'air toxics regulations or guidelines.Most of these states are applying safety factors tcworkplace exposure limits to develop ambient(outdoor) exposure limits.
The safety factors that the states are using areapplied gene ically That is, the same safety factoris applied to a large group of chemicals. generallywith little or no regard to toxicity or mode of ac-tion within the human body The rationale is thata conservative safety factor is chosen so that if thechemical exists in the air below the ambient limit(workplace standard safety factor) it can be as-sumed to exert no toxic effect. If the air con-centration is above the ambient limit. however. itis not assumed to be a hazard per se but a condi-tion that warrants further investigation. L'se ofthese "air toxics- limits in this manner is termeda "screening" approach. Maryland is currentlyusing this approach informally and has proposedregulations which would incorporate this concept
The Hazardous Pollutant Evaluation Section ofthe State of Maryland's Air Management Adminis-tration (225-5r0) may be consulted concerningthe use and derivation of these 'screening levelsas well as the status of the proposed regulations.The Division of Stationary Source Enforcement(225-5250) may be consulted concerning the EPANAAQS.
Th. American Society of Heating, Refrigeratingand Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE i hasrecommended indoor air limits for five contami-nants (ASHRAE Standard 62-1981). Thi ,ndarciis currently being revised. Information Leg-al-dingASHRAE Standards is available form ASHRAE.1-91 Tullie Circle. N.E.. Atlanta. GA 30329.
The Population at RiskThe population characteristics that must he
taken into consideration when evaluating the po-tential health effects related to indoor air qualityare age, sex, occupation. and health status Theage of the school system population generally willrange from approximately five to over ()() %.ears ofage, with special education services mandatedfrom birth to age 21 Factors related to theyounger age groups (elementary school age) in-clude a higher respiration rate per unit bodyweight and less ability to comprehend and com-municate adverse health responses i this latterconcern may be applicable to a wider age rangefor special education students). The significanceof the higher respiration rate per unit bodyweight has to do with the amount of toxic mate-rial per pound of body weight that will producean adverse health effect. Therefore. if a childbreathes in more material per unit of weight. th'child will theoretically experience adverse effectsbefore an adult.
The health status of the school population isimportant since many indoor air pollutants mayaggravate preexisting disease. For example. indi-viduals with lung disease (e.g., asthma. bronchitis.
emphysema) will have their symptoms aggravatedby respiratory irritants.
Nature of the ExposureExposures to indoor air pollutants and their
ensuing health effects are generally classified asacute or chronic Acute exposure to a chemical isusuall measured in minutes or in some casesseconds. and acute health effects are those man-ifested almost immediately (e.g. irritation of mu-cous membranes, cough). Chronic exposure to achemical refers to a repeated exposure over along duration: usually measured in days. months.or years Chronic health effects are those that de-velop and persist over time (e.g.. cancers. liverand kidney effects) Since chronic effects developover time. their appearance may or may not coin-cide with exposure to the causative agent(s).
Although some elevated chemical exposurescan occur indoors due to spills and the misuse ofchemicals. exposures in the indoor environmentare generally characterized by the comparativelylow concentrations of large numbers of pollutantsand the subtle health effects that result Typicalconcentrations found for individual pollutants inthe indoor environment are 2-3 orders of magni-tude. i.e.. 100-1000 times, below those found inthe industrial workplace
The adverse health responses to pollutants inthe indoor environment are often subtle i head-ache, malaise. etc ). i.e., the re-actions are not al-ways immediately obvious as being related to .inair contamination problem. Conversely, industrialworkplace exposures are more commonly relatedto clear toxic reactions ( e g.. choking. severe irri-tation. tremors).
Modification of Workplace Exposure LimitsIn the industrial workplace. exposure is moni-
tored and single or small numbers of contami-nants are identified Protection for workers mayhe prmided. where necessary, and alertness tothe hazard is common In schools. many differentsubstances are found. varying greatly in time andspace and in the occupants reactions to them
It v.orkplace standards are to he used as an aidin assessing the indoor environment. the stan-dards must he modified to account for the moresusceptible members of the school populationand for exposure to multiple pollutants VCOrk-place standards are frequently divided by a safes(actor f lo to account for more susceptible indi-%iduals there is no Li msensus on how to handlemultiple exposures st tine have recommended asimple additive approach, but the true interactii in
between Aluunts may range from protectionone IN 'II want protects against the effects of an-
snergism I the ('Innhined effect 1. 111, ,re
than additive) The safety factor of 100 has beenused by others to account for all the special con-siderations mentioned above including suscepti-ble
Note to Investigators and DesignersIt is hoped that this information will equip the
reader with some insight into the complexity ofevaluating indoor air exposures and health effect,
The facility planner should appreciate that heor she is designing a facility to he used by a pop-ulation that includes a large number of indi-viduals who, because of age or health status. areat increased risk of experiencing adverse healtheffects due to exposure to indoor air pollutantsTherefore. every effort should be made to antici-pate possible sources of indoor air pollution andto take appropriate action. Likewise the investiga-tor should understand the peculiarities of theschool population and the complexities of at-tempting to link health effects to indoor air pollu-tant exposure While air monitoring data shouldbe reviewed by appropriate health professionals.the investigator can use the information in thissection to help guide the investigation.
Control MethodsControl methods are important means of miti-
gating indoor contaminant problems. There aresix basic methods for lowering concentrations ()findoor contaminants.
1 Ventilation is a commonly used method forcontrolling indoor contaminants Usually It is em-ployed to both dilute the indoor air with .vaan-tines of outdoor air that are presumed to he lesscontaminated and to exhaust polluted air Inbuildings with mechanical ventilating sx stems.outdoor air quantities are provided by design atrates specified in the applicable building codesIn other cases. local exhaust may be employed toremove contamination near its source, such as inrestrooms. studios. and laboratories
2 Filtration and purification of contami-nants are employed where specific problems existand practical de-ices are available Particulate fil-tering is a highly advanced technology, but in-creased performance can involve significantlyhigher costs Ordinary furnace filters are not ef-fective in capturing pollen and other small parti-cles Higher performance filters are available athigher cost.
Vapor and gas removal equipment is also avail-able. but the technology tor general use in ordi-nary occupied spaces is expensive Activated harcoal filters are used to adsorb high molecularweight gaseous molecules in van mg efficienciesand holc,ling capacities. usually at costs In relation
.
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to their performance. However. n is difficult todetermine when the filters are loaded. and theycan desorb lighter molecules previously ad-sorbed. Potassium permanganate impregnatedinto porous alumina pellets (and other chem-icals) are available in order to oxidize or other-wise change particular gases and vapors intoother, less hazardous or odorous forms.
3 Removal or substitution of materials thatcontribute to indoor air problems should hepracticed. However, much work is necessary toidentify these materials and to provide satisfactorysubstitutes. Such materials include paints andother finishes. manufactured wood products. plas-tics, cleaning and maintenance materials Also in-cluded are a multitude of manufacturing pro-cesses that may be used to lessen the outgassingof some undesirable materials.
4 Encapsulation with coating materials. orotherwise interfering with the materials ability tooff -gas pollutants. is another control method.
5 The Time of Use of a contaminant is animportant administrative strategy.. Contaminantsshould be used when the least number of peoplewill be exposed.
6. Education of the building occupants is animportant activity If people are provided informa-tion about the sources and effects of contami-nants, they can act CO mitigate their personal ex-posure More building users will minimize theiruse of possible contaminants indoors when theyare provided an understanding of their relation-ship to indoor air quality
12
Description of Contaminants (Table 1)Description Sources Standards & Guidelines
Comfort & Health Effects Measurement Methods Control Measures
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Rg-r g
Investigation of anIndoor Air Quality Problem
This section is designed to help school offi-cials who respond to reports of indoor airquality problems It is aimed at acute symp-
toms, such as headache and mucous membraneirritation, most commonly caused by poor indoorair quality. Two forms are presented -an the fol-lowing pages. a short form and an extended formThe short form will serve for investigations withan obvious source of the problem The extendedform should be used when the cause of the prob-lem is not immediately apparent to the investiga-tor The purpose of these forms is to provide amechanism for school system staff to quickly in-vestigate and solve indoor air quality problemswith their own resources whenever possible Aprompt visit is key to identifying many sourcesand to maintaining good relations with the peo-ple experiencing the problem
The investigation is symptoms-driven. you hegin when symptoms are reported and stop whensymptoms are eliminated If symptoms appear tobe serious, life-threatening. or likely to causelong-term health damage. it may he necessart tobring in an outside consultant immediatelt andmove very rapidly through the investigation whiletaking immediate steps to protect faculty staff. andstudents This may include building evacuationThis investigation process does not replace a di-saster plan such Is would he required tOrchemical spill near a school nor address longterm hazards
The forms should he filled out at the site of theproblem Primarily two individuals are moltedthe reporter. who is the person w ho has re(i)g,nized the problem and the 'investigator w ho isassigned to evaluate the problem When the ttn-mis completed. it should be filed at the central of-fice and at the school
15
Once the school officials hate designed a strat-egy to identify and or solve the problem. themay obtain outside assistance. it needed Con-sultation may he available from the public as wellas the private sector and could involve medicaldiagnosis. air pollutant monitoring, and or fiAACsystem evaluation and redesign Previous workshould prepare school officials to Llearlt detinewhat tasks a consultant is to perform. the tech-niques to employ, the anticipated product. andhow it will aid the solution Every building is dlr.ferent and needs for consultation must he considered on a case-bv-case basis Finally. scho,,I tovials need to be prepared to follow theconsultants recommendations
1
Investigation of an Indoor Air Quality Problem(Short Form)
Date Time Notified. Who Reported
Position
Building Name
Building Location
Designated Investigator Position
On-Site Evaluation Date. Time.
People Present.
Reporter Describe the problem including symptoms.
Investigator Is there an obvious source of the problem? If so, record the source and describe your assessment and plan otaction t if a plan of action is not apparent, seek consultant services).
Signatures: Investigator Date.
Principal Date.
If there is no obvious cause of the problem, proceed to the following extended form.
I I
16
Investigation of an Indoor Air Quality Problem(Extended Form)
Symptoms QuestionnaireComplete this questionnaire for each person affected (use additional pages as required)
Name of person
Specific building location( s) involved
Date. Time.
Person administering questionnaire(May be self-administered)
Do you have a history of allergies? If yes. describe the type of problem, when it occurs. and any medication you take
Check any symptoms You have experienced since the beginning of the school year. Estimate and check number of days You
have had this symptom
E HeadacheDry mouth
0 Dizziness or FaintnessWeakness
0-24 Hrs 2-i Hrs-1WkL...,
n1_,
1 -4 Wks > 4 WkS
Difficulty Concentrating7-1
Eye Irritation0 Hoarseness (_.;
Fever0 Burning of the Nose
Throat IrritationNasal Congestion 0
0 Coughing0 Skin Irritation01 Other ( describe):
Have your symptoms occurred
0,.._,
(__Ir---,,......,
0 Continually 0 Intermittently
Did you have any of these symptoms during the last summer or school year? If yes. name them
If you checked any symptoms, please describe in more detail:
12
17
Have you sought medical attention for these symptoms? Describe.
During which months are you likely to experience symptoms? (Circle all that apply).JFMAMJJASOND
During which days of the week are mu liken to experience symptoms% (Circle all that apply)M T W Th F S S
During which part of the day are You likely to experience symptoms? (Circle all that apply)m. p.m All-the-time Anytime
What are the weather conditions when you experience symptoms?E Rainy. stormy 0 Calm, mild E HOE. humid
0 Dry 0 Windy Cold
Flow long have you worked, attended school in this building?
After you began work or started school in this building. how long was it before symptoms started? i Circle one )
Right away days weeks months years
Symptoms began before I was in this building
If you leave the building. do your symptoms improve% Yes NoIf yes. how rapidly. minutes hours overnight days
Do you smoke? Yes No
Are mu bothered by cigarette smoke? Yes No
Have you detected any odors? Describe.
What do mu think is the cause of your symptoms.
Potential Sources of Indoor Air Quality ProblemsThe investigator may complete this section to the extent necessary to identify a likely source of contamination.
There are many potential sources of indoor air pollution. many not immediately apparent This questionnaire will assist (nthe recollection of events that may have contributed to exposure to specific pollutants This ,hould be a -brain-storming session with the investigator collecting all possible information and not trying, yet. to judge its relevance to the present prob-lem
if appropriate. sketch the affected area including equipment. activities. lighting, intake and exhaust ducts. room dividers.and windows Also include the adjacent rooms and spaces ( e g science classroom) Attach your drawing.
Does this area or a nearby area have:0 Motor vehicles Garbage storage 0 Duplicating machine
Arts and crafts 0 Science 0 Industrial artsC .Animals Cigarette smoking 0 Other
13
Has there been any:New constructionPesticides used
Painting Cleaners used12 Installation of carpets Other
Is there an evidence of.Water damage or stains LI Mold growth = Dirt around air ducts
Equipment, Materials, SuppliesList equipment. materials and supplies that have been introduced or modified. or whose emissions are not being removed
a) Equipment
Type, brand, model number Date installed Special comments1
3
4
b i List materials used in this classroom or work area
Material description or brandSpecial comments (any
Date of use warnings on labels?)
List furniture, accessories, and their protective coating used Include rugs. drapes. curtains, or other decorative materials
Type
3
I )
Material Date introduced Comments
if
BEST Cijil
19
d) List any chemicals introduced such as paints, surface coatings. floor, rug or fabric cleaners. deodorants. insecticides, de-tergents. etc.
Type of material(include brand) Use last date used How often used Comments1
3
Activitiesa) List activities performed in this classroom or work area:
Activity1
3
4.
5
(")
Emissions from activityUsual schedule (heat, odors, fumes)
Episodic or Unusual EventsBuilding problems sometimes begin after an event such as pipes breaking, roof leaks. etc. Describe any such events
Event When occurred Comments
3
Evaluation of Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) SystemsAs needed. the investigator or a person knowledgeable about proper operation and man ,ance of heating. ventilation.
and air conditioning systems should complete this section of the protocol. Often the HVAC systz.-11 is the cause of an indoorair problem. delivering air that is the improper temperature or humidity or delivering too few air changes for human corn-tbrt Also. improper maintenance can lead to mold growth, which may be the source of symptoms It is important to have away to identify these problems In most cases, adjustments in the 1-{VAC system will eliminate indoor air symptoms When apoint source is causing the problem. several solutions exist. the source can be eliminated, local ventilation can he installed.or alterations in the HVAC system may be necessary
15
20
The following pages will allow you to systematically review the FIVAC system and identity common types ,)f problemsSome school systems may be able to collect additional data due to appropriate staff and equipment.
In any investigation of a problem with the indoor environment. it is important to understand how the HVAC system in taebuilding works and to document any recent changes that may have occurred in the 1-I\AC systems design or operation
It will he very important to the investigation if in addition to answering the general questions below the imesritui,,rprim, or diagrams or the f-f\AC system for the affected are.. as well as a description ot the building intake and exhaustterns and any other pertinent information
I Is the building served by one li\AC system or is the building divided into sections sened by different umts Destrihe
2 What t\pe of heating is used for the building?a) On site boiler Yes _ No It \es. what type of fuel:
Gas _ #_ Oil OtherApproximate age of boiler
b) Central steam. Yes No _c) Electric. Yes _ No _d) Other
3 Is accessory heating used in the affected area? Yes _ NoIf yes. please describe
What type of cooling,None Central Area
s TemperatureWhat is the air temperature ot the rooms) involved?
Roomath
di
Time
Indi\idual I nit
Wet-Bulb Temp Dry-Bulb Temp
() \etiolation.Can windows he opened? Yes _ NoIs there a central cenulation system? Yes _ NoWhere is the fresh air intake with respect to any building exhausts% ie g. boiler flue. kitchen exhaust )
\re the outdoor air dampers on air handling units fixed in the closed position or not providing )utdoor air for an (they
reason, Yes _ NoIt \ es. list each air handling unit and the space( si ser\ ed
It)
21
8 Are there other areas in the building that share the same conditioned air as the area where symptoms have oc-curred? Yes No
If Yes. there may he activities within these areas that could emit gases or aerosol of liquids or solids into the air circu-lated throughout the building. Based upon what you know about activities in the building, please list those which shouldhe investigated
9 Are there any activities outside the building. such as garages. industrial plants. restaurants. and dry cleaners. whose emis-sions can under certain conditi .)ns he taken in by the building ventilation system? List them
10 Are condensate pans in air handling units draining? Yes ______. No
11 Vere there any changes made in the heating. ventilation, and air conditioning system around the time of the tncident? If so. describe them.
Investigator's Assessment:Review previous data collected Summarize the main features of this problem and what you think are the relevant s- turces tr1-1\AC information This should be only a few paragraphs and should demonstrate the logic of your hypothesis as to w hat iscausing the problem
Du wu have an explanation for these symptoms? (for assistance, review Frequently Encountered Problems on Pg 18Yes
It what is the causes
what is the recommended solution and time frame?
It no. what is the next step ( this is a matter or judgment for the investigator)?Monitor for 1-3 weeks to determine if the problem continues
Initiate further evaluation
Signatures: Investigator I) ite
Principal Date
22
Follow-Up: (complete A or Bas appropriate) Follow-up should take place 1-3 months after the initial response or afterthe action plan is completed. Continuous communication should be maintained with the reporter( s
A This problem has been solved.
Signatures: Investigator Date
Principal Date
B This prohlem has not vet been solved (describe the ongoing problem briefly ):
Action planned and time frame i describe).
Ae have discussed the problem and recommend the above plan of action for its evaluation and solution
Signatures: Investigator. Date
Principal Date.
Frequently Encountered ProblemsI Ventilation
Vents obstructed by furniture. partitions. etcLocal exhaust improperly used, functioningShop areasArts and craftsScience labsHome economicsPhoto labLoose Fibrous glass insulation inside ductworkMaintenance or repair of AC systemInadequate fresh air intakeImproper air flows (check settings of dampers)Fans blowers wired incorrectlyToxic solvents used to clean the systemInadequate air distribution
ThermalHigh or low temperatureHigh or low humidity
5 OtherFormaldehydePlywood and pressed ctiod productsCarpet and glueDraperies. furniture. etcCarbon monoxideBoilers and furnacesMotor vehicle exhaustParticulatesTobacco smokeDiesel exhaustCarbon dioxideArts and craftsMoldsIn standing water
23
24
Building Maintenanceand Operations
Once a building has been constructed. respon-sibility for preserving good indoor air qualityrests with the building operations and main-
tenance functions. School systems mast establish acomprehensite facilities maintenance program
The office that supports this program should beinvolved before a new school or one that has un-dergone major renovation is accepted. This willenable its staff to understand the building systemsas designed and installed
Program ManagementIn order to implement a maintenance opera-
tions program. three elements that must be pro-vided:
1 Administratite Support from the highestlevel of the organization. including a firmcommitment from the school board and, orsupervisors must be solicited:
2. Staffing by trained, and competent person-nel:
3. Budgetary Allocations to provide the opera-tions and maintenance staff with the re-sources to provide the comprehensive serv-ices necessary CO maintain indoor air quality
The following areas need to be addressed anddocumented in a written program:
1. InventoryA. What are the major building systems%
i Electricalii. HVAC
iii Humidificationiv. Incinerationv Plumbingvi. Special Areas:
2. Systems DescriptionA descripuon of the systems. their specifica-
uons, control parameters, and design should hepart of a Comprehensive Facilities MaintenancePlan. This is a particularly important and ottenoverlooked program element It is of crucial irn-
portance to both existing and new staff in thebuilding
3. Operational PlanA written operations manual should describe
how to actually run the building systems Theplan should provide a detailed step by step proce-dure covering operation from start up to shut-down. This document will be an essential refer-ence for dat to day activities and is a useful:raining document for new ,:ii:olovees.
The written operational plan should cover thebuilding system instrumentation that will gatherinformation or data on physical plant system per-formance It should list design criteria: perform-ance criteria: acceptable ranges for fluctuations ingauges. meters. and recorders. and trouble shoot-ing strategies Information on the frequency ofboth routine and preventive maintenance shouldhe part of the document
4. Comprehensive Preventive MaintenancePlanA The Concept
Preventive maintenance should he incorporatedinto ant indoor air quilt!. program It is vital toperiodically check systems to prevent small defi-ciencies from blossoming into major costly out-ages For example, oiling a bearing on a fan sys-tem on a monthly basis will extend the usefullifetime of the unit and prevent the potential lossof makeup or exhaust air necessary for adequateindoor air quality
B Maintenance schedulingscheduling periodic maintenance can be an
important determinant of indoor air quality Boththe trequenc\ and timing are important For ex-ample. biological growth of fungi and bacterial,rganisms have often been imitated from a unitendow ventilator «ith condensation pans In
some environmental studies, these organismshate been shown to cause disease in building oc-cupants since school system unit ventilators runthrough( cut the school year, they will accumulateif I increasing 1m Jload as the year progresses andtill p,,tenualit he disseminating biologically ac-me aero.A Is tt the buildings occupants it theschool st stem waits until June to clean and disin-fect these units. they mat pose a greater risk tobuilding occupants than it they were to disinfectthese units several times during the year
Preventive maintenance must he tied to thebuildings utilization schedule For example. paintmg, Loll cleaning idler projects involving theuse t Pt %, datile .rtzanit chemicals should besL heduled to minumie the number of people po[email% exposed These activities are best dimewhen there are few c u.L upants and the taidin hasthe opporn,nitt to .1Ir out
BEST CRY
5. A Materials Management ProgramIt is important to understand that the chemicals
used in housekeeping. maintenance. operations.pest control. and cateteria services can effect airquality and. subsequently. the health of a build-ing's occupants The chemicals used in the build-ing should he inventoried and a material safetydata sheet obtained from the manufacturers ordistributors if the chemical composition is not.%pecifically stated. the school has an obligation toreject the material and thereby not subject thebuilding's population to unknown and poten-tially harmful effects
The chemical composition must be evaluatedwith regard to hazardous ingredients and alsohazardous reaction potential based upon the useor application Wherever possible. materials.chemicals. and reagents that present the lowesttoxic potential should be used. By this. it is meantthat if two floor strippers are evaluated. their sol-vent compositions should be compared on thebasis of acute toxicity. concentration to be used inthe task, and vapor pressure Consideration mustalso be given to materials that present a risk ofcarcinogenicity mutagenicity. or toxicity to a spe-cific organ in the body.
Less toxic materials should he substituted formore toxic materials. In general. water solublematerials should be given preference to organicsolvent systems. Materials that are higher in flashpoint and/or have a lower vapor pressure .ire alsopreferred For example. latex. water-based paintsare less noxious than oil-based paints If oil basedpaints must be used. special low odor paints andor ventilation practices can be employed. sulfuricacid based drain cleaners have resulted in theemission of hydrogen sulfide gas in some institu-tions. sodium hydroxide drain cleaners might hepreferable.
Minimize the quantities of potentially haz-ardous materials purchased. stored, and dis-pensed. One way of doing the latter is to evaluatethe frequency of certain procedures For example.one institution issued a contract to an outsidefirm to perform pest control in cafeteria and foodstorage areas. The outside firm was most anxiousto appear conscientious and competent. In theirzeal, they undertook a spray application programevery five days. The compound selected for usehad a day hail life (i.e., if one pound were dis-tributed in the area. 5 days later half a poundwould still he left on the surfaces). Within a shortperiod of time there were no insects to he seen.nevertheless. the company continued to apply theinsecticide. increasing the build-up of indoor en-tronmental insecticide concentrations In addi-
tion. stored concentrated stock solutions weretound to he leaking and emanating vapors that
r 25
were captured and circulated by the buildingI-I\AC system.
6. RoofsPoorly drained roofs may he a potential source
if poor indoor air quality The architects design-ing tacilities snould take special care to ensurethat roots are sound and well sloped Minimallysloped roots invariably pool water and leak or re-quire extensive maintenance involving adhesivesit tars These materials frequently enter the air
intakes The adhesives commonly used are potentcentral and peripheral nervous system toxins Therooting tars are known to contain sensitizingagents. carcinogenic and mutagenic polvnucleararomatic compounds
These materials may be particularly harmful tochildren with growing bodies Roofing operations.therefore. should be undertaken when the ex-posures to building occupants can be minimized.The best time is when the school is unoccupied.Wherever feasible. enclosed day tankers of tarsshould be used instead of open kettles to mini-mize the evolution of organic vapors. The tartanks should be located as far from air intakes aspossible and preferably downwind from thebuilding If such measures are not feasible. thencertain air intakes should be temporarily blockedwhile provisions for supplemental uncontami-nated outside air are made using portable fans
Pooling on roofs resulting in stagnant. standingwater can support the growth of algae. bacteria.and possibly viruses that can be drawn into build-ing air systems. Leaks in roofs result in waterdamage or accumulation in ceiling tiles. rugs. orinternal wall spaces. Fungi and bacteria that op-portunistically capitalize on this moisture havebeen found to be responsible for allergies andrespiratory disease. Consequently, when roofs aresloped inadequately or roof repairs arepostponed, indoor air quality can easily he com-promised. Water-damaged materials must be re-moved and replaced in a timely fashion beforethey serve as a substrate for biological growth.
In buildings that contain asbestos surface oracoustical treatments, water damage represents aparticular health threat. Water can delaminate as-bestos coatings, fireproofing, or decorative treat-ments The weight of water-soaked asbestos mayhe sufficient to separate the coating from the sub-strate Upon impact at the floor, free fibers of as-bestos can be released into the room and distrib-uted throughout the entire building.
In buildings where asbestos material has beenencapsulated with a bridging agent. the weight ofwater from a leaking roof can bring portions ofthe encapsulated asbestos down The resultant
fiber release from the interior of the encapsulatedmaterial then creates a hazardous condition
. Condensation PansFor Years. chloroben t dichlorobenzene f has
heen in common usage as an algaecide in con-densation pans Normally it is mixed in a I to +ratio with water. and a cup is placed into the con-densation pan on a monthly basis One institutionhad to evacuate pregnant office staff %.ith s. toptoms of nausea. headaches and malaise after amaintenance application of one gallon purecloroben into an operating air handling s stemThe organic compound volatilized and createdairborne concentrations in excess of 200 parts permillion (ppm) Chloroben has been associatedwith changes in bone marrow and blood cells Itoften contains a manufacturing contaminant. hen-zene. that has been associated with leukemia Thissubstance is inappropriate in school settings Thisunfortunate incident highlights the importance if
understanding that "more is not necessarilybetter-
Condensation pans must he periodicallycleaned and checked to ensure that they aredraining. If an algaecidal treatment N not peri-odicall administered. the drain lines can heoimeblocked and must be reamed out Non-drainingcondensation pans can provide an ideal darkmoist environment for biological growth withinair distribution systems.
8. Welding, Brazing, Cutting or SolderingMaintenance operations. automotive repair. and
theater or craft procedures inmIN ing welding. cut-ting, brazing, or soldering should he performedin ventilated facilities dedicated to those tasksOften, however, these operations cannot he donein such a controlled setting and field operationsmust be undertaken. Welding, cutting. soldering.and brazing evolve toxic gases and particulatesthat should be vented outdoors If this is not pos-sible or impractical. then filtration is needed. Toprotect indoor air quality a portable systemequipped with a high efficiency particulate filterbacked with an activated carbon filter should heused. It is essential that such systems he equippedwith a flexible capture hood to entrain environ-mental contaminants at their source.
9. Mechanical SystemsPulleys, belts. bearings, dampers. heating and
cooling coils, and other mechanical systems musthe checked periodically A checklist should he de-veloped that is custom tailored for the particularbuilding. This will assist the maintenance and op-erations staff when performing inspectionsPulleys and belts should he tightened as neededand changed prior to failure Bearings should helubricated or repacked to prevent maior failure (it
21
26 orc,orL9V.4 t-iVhiriAtilli
vital system components. Air distribution dampersand baffles should be cleaned and cleared of de-bris periodically Failure to perform these ac-tivities will result in an increase in resistancecausing a decrease in air supply
The air distribution duct network should haveaccess ports to facilitate vacuuming depositeddust and particulate matter It mas he necessary atsome point in the building's Iffespan to use a di-lute solution of bleach (sodium hypochlorite 5%)to decontaminate the inner surfaces of air ductsThis procedure is particularly useful if tobaccocombustion products have condensed on the inte-nor surfaces of the duct resulting in a stale aircondition This type of building maintenance taskcan not be performed it the duct has an internalfibrous noise insulating lining Interior duct in-sulation should be avoided if at all possible. Inaddition. air filters must be changed periodically
Building ventilation distribution networks aresystems The common practice of arbitrarily ad-lusting the dampers or baffles to accommodatecomplaints from one area should be avoided Bschanging the air flow in one area, the system bal-ance is shifted and distribution throughout thtentire network will be effected. If there are coin-plaints. it is recommended that the buildings airhandling system be evaluated as a whole Annualair balancing should be performed to confirmthat the HVAC system and distribution networkare adequate and meet design specifications
In order for the building ventilation system to:unction properly. the control mechanisms mustoperate correctly Gauges must be in calibration.sensors must engage at designated ranges. andtransmission lines must not he defective. Pneu-matic and hydraulic transmission lines should be,heLked for leaks The control mechanismsshould he included in the annual preventivemaintenance program. They should be checkedmore frequently if the ventilation system does notperform as expected.
10. Vacuuming\ormal industrial vacuums emit particles and
tihers in their exhaust An improvement in per-formance can he obtained if they can be fittedwith a high efficiency particulate =filter (HEPA)I (EPA vacuums should he selected in areas thatmight have spores or microorganisms HEPA vac-uum filtration ensures that potentially toxic orharmful aerosols are not dispersed while re-sponding to a problem HEPA vacuums are alsorecommended for use in automotive and indus-trial shops and in cratt activities that generatedusts. fumes, or particulates Dry sweeping inthese areas should he curtailed.
)2
11. Electrical TransformersElectrical transformers that contain polychlori-
nated biphenyls t PCBs) must he checked monthlyand inspected for leaks. The EPA has estimatedthat the risk of a transformer fire is on the orderof 4-5,1000 units over a transformers lifetimeThe operations and maintenance program shouldcontain a plan to either delist these units to PCBconcentrations below 0 ppm or dispose of theliquid and metal carcass. The EPA has enactedregulations requiring network transformers to hedecontaminated or scrapped by 1990 The EPAregulations require establishing an institution in-ventor; of transformers and capacitors that con-tain more than 50 ppm of polychlorinated hiphenyls The transformers. capacitors. andtransformer vaults must he labeled as speuticallsdirected in the EPA regulations Local fire depart-ments must he supplied with a list of the locationand description of the electrical components con-taining PCBs A log book of monthls inspectionsof transformer vaults must be maintained as wellas manifests documenting approved disposal
Operations and maintenance procedures needto he drafted to maintain these units until thethreat of a fire or PCB uncontrolled release canhe eliminated Ventilation to the transformervaults may need to be modified to prevent toxiccombustion products from being transported tothe main areas of the building Floor drainsshould be sealed in the vault areas and the areasposted in compliance with federal regulationsThe operations and maintenance staff needs tohave a working and written contingency plan forhandling tires and spills of polychlorinated hi-phens Is
The EPA regulations do not specifically requirethat PCB fluorescent light ballasts he handled ashazardous materials. Ballasts manufacturedthrough 19-8 may contain a small PCB capacitorBallast failure can volatilize both PCBs and the as-phalt tar used to encapsulate the ballasts Measur-able quantities of PCBs have been documented bythe EPA as long as a Year post failure Asphalt tarshave been .issouated with symptoms of upperrespirators irritation It is recommended thatthese type .4 ballasts he phased out as repairsand moditications are made in the buildings light-ing system Small quantities of ballasts can he dis-posed of as ordinary solid waste.
12. DrainsDrains in laboratories must be kept clear and
in working order. sediment in drain traps canpros ide an area where conditions support thegrowth and accumulation of biological organismsIn laboratory areas. broken mercury ther-mometers have often led to the pooling of metal-lic mercury in the sink traps. This phenomena.
6Ea AVAILABLE
can chronically introduce mercury vapors into theindoor air. Acute exposures to plumbers andmaintenance personnel must also be considered.Substitution of non mercury thermometers andgauges in laboratories is an easy preventive solu-tion to this problem.
The antisiphon traps in sinks must containwater to prevent noxious odors from the sanitarysewer lines from migrating hack into the indoorair spaces Sinks and drains that are used mfre-quently can dry out allowing a path for gases toenter Cupsinks in laboratory fume hoods and onbenches frequently Ciry out and have often beenfound to be the sources of odors This problemcan he resolved and prevented by periodicallyrunning water in these drains, plugging unuseddrains with a rubber stopper. or using a non-toxicliquid with a low vapor pressure such as ethyleneglycol to fill the antisvphon drain
13. Building Use ChangesSpecial care must he exercised when building
space utilization is changed. Renovation, redesign.or changes in building use can create situationsthat may lead to compromises in indoor air qual-ity For example. if a mimeograph or copy ma-chine is hrought into a small closet or other un-ventilated space chemical emissions such asmineral spirits or ozone may suddenly becomeproblems Impacts on heat load and noise levelsmust also he anticipated if new equipment isadded to an already existing area.
A common renovation prohlem arises when ad-ditional personnel need to he accommodated in aspace Office or instructional areas are often parti-tioned and additional furniture and equipment in-stalled. Anticipate the need to modifying the airdistribution in these situations Conversely whenpartitions are removed creating new spaces. theentilation distribution and balance must be re-
vised. Care must he taken to ensure that. in the fi-nal design. air supplies ate not located too nearthe exhausts so that short circuiting does not oc-cur.
14. Pipe LeaksPipe leaks can occur through corrosion. me-
chanical failure, or because of the expansion ofwater due to freezing temperatures In any case ofleakage. repair or replacement of the damagedpipe section must he performed immediately It isimportant that any and all leaked water he quicklyremoved and disposed of by pouring into a sani-tary or storm drain. It is prudent to have availablewet vacuums. submersible pumps. and squeezebrooms and mops to handle water emergencies.Water damaged ceiling tiles. rugs, insulation, orlaggings must also he dried or removed and re-placed in a timely fashion to prevent mold from
growing. Following storms. it is good practice toinspect the building for discolored (-tiling tiles orleaks as signs of water problems Freezing can beprevented by ensuring that pipes that are poten-tially subjected to subfreezing temperatures areinsulated or that the immediate spaces are con-nected to the heated interior of the building.
15. FiltersMechanical equipment for ventilation. heating.
and air conditioning contain filter media orscreens to collect particulate matter from con-taminating the coils, fans and interior housingsand duct work. Originally. the primary considera-tion was to protect the system from contamina-tion and loss in efficiency resulting in equipmentshutdown and extensive cleaning. Recognition isnow given to the role filters can play in improv-ing indoor air quality.
Filters are primarily classified into three (3)types. mechanical filtration. adsorption. and elec-trostatic. Corresponding examples of each are asfollows. fiberglass filters seen in our home fur-naces, self-contained filter fans seen in motelbathrooms that contain a charcoal filter, and largeunits usually placed on incinerators to removecharged particulate matter.
School systems are primarily concerned withmechanical filtration filters Commonly used arethe replaceable fiberglass filter media. the me-chanical screen media that requires cleaning andrecoating, and hag type filters on large air han-dling equipment This filter equipment performsthe function of coil protection. reduction of par-ticulate matter to the air supplied to the occupiedspaces. and reducing dirt contamination to ductsand accessory components. Filters are rated by ef-ficienc-y. air flow resistance, and contaminantholding capacity. The method of entrapment is byimpingement that locks the particulates within thefilter. Filters have a life expectancy rated in hourswhen placed in use for a given air flow with ex-pected contaminants. This life expectancy can bereduced by contaminants reaching the filter fromevents like severe dcv spells blowing excessivedirt or interior dust producing activities.
Filters in air handling heaung units should bechanged based upon the pressure drop in thesystem and according to the manufacturers rec-ommendations. In many cases, filters are notbeing changed this frequently Consider what thismeans to the operation of the equipment and theoccupants of the space:
I Equipment etficienc-v is reduced and moreenergy is required to run the fan for pulling theair through the niter.
28 BEST Lila OILITLE
2. Some contaminants pass through an over-loaded filter clogging the coils and entering theoccupied spaces.
3 Over an extended period of time the dirtcollection on the coils will diminish the thermaltransfer efficiency of the unit resulting in higherenergy consumption.
4 Contaminants on the coils can become abreeding ground for bacterial and fungus growth.
The above comments on air handling heatingunits are applicable to all types of equipmentcontaining ventilation, heating, and/or air condi-tioning coil systems. One must consider the ex-pense of extensive cleaning to return this equip-ment to proper operation as compared to thecost of replacing filters on a scheduled basis. Allfilters are not equal. In procuring replacement fil-ter media, it is important to specify the proper fil-ter media for the equipment that it will be in-stalled on. Remember the characteristics of airfilters: efficiency, air flow resistance, and contami-nant holding capacity Consider these charac-teristics in developing your specifications for filtermedia replacement and the development of yourschedule for replacing filters in your equipment.The results of these considerations are a healthierenvironment. energy savings. and reduced costsfor unscheduled cleaning of coil and duct systems
2-i 29
30
Building Planning andDesign
Codes and StandardsThe following codes and standards are useful
references to those involved in the planning anddesign of educational facilities Some may in fact.be mandated directly by State or local law or byreference in adopted codes Many lurisdictionsadopt a code in an amended form to meet spe-cific objectives
Thermal Environmental Conditions for HumanOccupancyASHRAE Standard 55.1981 Thestandard specifies temperature and humidity con-ditions desirable for the comfort of healthy peo-ple
Ventilation for Acceptable Indoor Air QualitASHRAE Standard 62-1981 Now in the revisionprocess. an earlier edition of this standard.62-193, has been used extensively as the basisfor ventilation air requirements in model codes
HVAC Duct System DesignS1L-ICSA 1985 Thismanual prescribes techniques for design of airdistribution systems.
Energy Consertation in Aelt Building DesignASHRAE Standard 90A-1980 This standard. nowundergoing revision, provides design guidancefor energy efficient building design It is the basisfor the Basic Energy Conservation Code
Energy Conservation in Existing BuildingsIn-stitutional .451-11?..-kE Standard 100 5-1981 Thisstandard provides guidelines for reducing energyuse in existing institutional buildings includingschools.
Air Conditioning and Ventilating .Systems AFPAStandard 90A. This standard is the primarY refer-ence for design of air distribution systems for ef-fective fire safety The basis for most buildingcodes.
BasicNational Building Code BOC-1-1084 Thismodel building code has been adopted by theState of Maryland and most counties within thestate. It is amended by some Jurisdictions to meetspecific objectives.
Basic Mechanical Code BOC4- 1084 Thismodel code specifically addresses mechanical sys-tems It has been adopted by many iunsdictionsin Maryland.
Basic Energy Conservation Code-1084 Thiscode is similar to ASHRAE Standard 90A in codeformat and has been adopted by many state iuris-diaions.
SitingEnvironmentally poor building sites can con-
tinually present negative influences on the indoorair quality of a school. Effects of various site fac-tors are discribed below
RoadwaysSchools located near streets and highways may
have elevated levels of lead and carbon monoxidein the indoor air. Road surfaces can also producedirt and dust within a school building Factorsthat influence the potential impact of roadwaysare the proximity of the roadway, prevailing mete-orological conditions. and patterns of road usage.
VegetationShrubbery and trees must be used carefully
since they can offer both advantages and disad-vantages to the building environment Vegetationcan reduce wind-induced air infiltration and cap-ture particulates carried by outdoor air. Hedgeson the edge of school site can capture some roadcontaminants On the other hand. vegetation canhe a significant source of allergens If planted lowand close to a building, vegetation can encouragemold growth and distribute pollen directly intoair intakes or other building openings.
SoilRadon arises from the radioactive decay of cer-
tain elements in the soil. Radon levels in the in-door air depend upon the concentration of radonsources in the soil. the potential for migrationinto the building. and the air exchange rate of thestructure Below grade building levels are moresusceptible to radon contamination. Unventedcrawl spaces are also potential problems. There isa test to examine soil for radon. however, there isno agreement on how to interpret these tests andappl the findings to school building siting or de-sign.
'chool planners also have to consider priorusage of a site or adjacent sites before purchasingproperty for school use. Of particular concern arethe prior use of chemicals as well as previouslandfill and hazard waste disposal sites.
Ventilation
IntroductionIf the source of an indoor pollutant cannot be
avoided or reduced. ventilation becomes the pri-mar means of control of air contaminants withinoccupied spaces Properly filtered outside air isnormally sufficiently free of building or occupantgenerated contaminants ( such as carbon dioxide.bacteria. and tobacco smoke) to offer the means
it diluting chose contaminants In the absence ofstrong sources. contaminant levels can he held toacceptable levels h% air supplied at the appropri-
21)
ate rate and well distributed. Recirculated air.when filtered or otherwise purified CO removecontaminants. is also used for effective dilutionand control. Removal of contaminants at the gen-eration source through exhaust ventilation. e ghood exhaust in a science classroom, is anothereffective wav CO control indoor air qualit.
Outdoor AirThe outdoor air employed for ventilation
should not have contaminants exceeding con-centration limits stated in the National AmbientAir Quality Standards t NAAQS) as established bythe I: S Environmental Protection Agency and en-forced by the Maryland Department of the En-vironment.
If outdoor air gaseous and particulate contami-nant concentrations are known to exceed themaximum levels established by the EPA N?AQS.the air should be treated by filtration and sorp-tion or other proven gas removal methods to re-duce contaminants to acceptable levels.
Air inlets and exhaust air outlets at the buildingexterior should be located to avoid contaminationof the ventilation air supply Contaminants fromsources such as cooling towers, sanitary vents. ve-hicular exhaust from parking garages. loadingdocks, and street traffic should be avoided. Wheresoils contain high concentrations of radon. ven-tilation practices that place crawl spaces. base-ments. or underground ductwork under negativepressure could increase radon concentrations inbuildings and should be avoided.
Basis of Control of Indoor ContaminantsProviding appropriately treated outdoor air at a
sufficient rate to dilute contaminants that are gen-erated internall!, by building occupants. pro-cesses. or building materials is a means of achiev-ing acceptable indoor air quality Indoor airquality is usually considered acceptable if outdoorair of acceptable quality is supplied to the oc-cupied space at the rates prescribed in Table 2.Generally, the contaminants generated within aspace are assumed to be related to the occupantsand their activities.
The provision of acceptable outdoor air at therates indicated in Table 2 is intended to achievean acceptable level of indoor air quality by con-trolling CO, to a concentration of 1.000 ppm orless. CO,, not itself considered a harmful con-taminant at this concentration, is used as a surro-gate measure for other contaminants common tothose occupied spaces. including some particu-lates and odors The outdoor air being suppliedshould be appropriately treated and cleaned toreduce dusts. pollens. smoke, and other particu-late or gaseous contaminants to an acceptablelevel
Public Restrooms 50 NoteDarkrooms 05Kitchens 20 15 NoteCafeteria 100 15
Note 1Note 2Note 3Note -iNote 5
Special contaminant control systems may be required for processes or functionsSupplementary tobacco smoke removal equipment may be required.Higher values may be required for humidity control.Value given is cfm per water closet or urinal.Make-up air for hood exhaust may require more ventilation air The sum it tat-
door air and transfer air of acceptable quality from adjacent spaces should pro-vide an exhaust rate of not less than 1.5 cfm per ft =
Table 2 and other material contained in these guidelines have been extracted from propo.ed N.N.N1Standard 62.1981R published in draft form for public review dated lulv 15 1986 it must be ret,,gruzeU thatcertain data and material ultimately published in the completed standard may differ trom that ,ontained inthe draft
Exhaust air from one space sometimes can beused as supply air to another space where differ-ent contaminants are generated (corridors and of-fice spaces exhausted through toilet rooms or ad-jacent areas exhausted through kitchens): thisexhaust air should then be considered equivalentto acceptable outdoor air.
A space may require ventilation to remove con-tamination generated within the space. but unre-lated to human occupancy t e g.. outgassing frombud ng materials or furnishings). For thesecases. Table 2 lists quantities of cfmift2 or anequivalent term. If human carcinogens or otherharmful contaminants are suspected to be presentin the occupied space. other relevant standards orguidelines requiring higher ventilation rates t e g
OSHA. EPA) must take precedence over theseguidelines However, in general. every effortshould be made to eliminate highly toxic mate.rials from the school If suitable substitutes cannot be found, well-engineered local exhaust sys-tems should be employed if appropriate.
Where several rooms are supplied from a sin-gle ventilation system, those rooms with high %en-tilation rate requirements. such is conferencerooms. may not receive an adequate amount ofoutside air. This situation often results when theamount of outside air is determined by summingthe requirements of the areas served by thetern For example a conference room may requiresupplemental or independent ventilation to ensure that the amount of outside air per person is
5-
32BEST UR AVAILABLE
sufficient to achieve the indoor quality
The estimated maximum occupancy density fig-ures given in T..-ble 2 are a guideline that may behelpful where more precise information is notavailable. In some cases it may be difficult to de-rive an estimated maximum occupancy densityfigure because the number of persons cannot beestimated accurately or varies considerably.
Where peak occupancies are less than threehours. the outdoor air flow rate (i.e.. cfmipersonor cfmift2) may be based on the average occu-pancy level for the area during the period the sys-tem is operating, provided the average occupancylevel is not less than half the maximum occu-pancy figure for that particular area. Automaticdampers or fan operations can control the quan-tity of outdoor air to sufficiently dilute airbornecontaminants to an acceptable level. The systemcan be operated so the dilution is achieved be-fore people arrive (lead occupancy) or after theyarrive (lag occupancy).
If the source of contaminants are related to oc-cupants, such as a build up of carbon dioxide, thesystem will have to supply an outdoor air supplyat a rate high enough to overtake the rate atwhich contaminants are generated. During this in-terim period, people should not experience dis-comfort from the build up of contaminants. Whencontaminants are generated inside the buildingindependently of the occupancy, the systemshould be operated so sufficient outside air di-lutes the contaminants before the people arrive
Where contaminants are occupant related, in-struments may be used to sense the level of CO2in the building and automatically regulate theamount of outside air brought into the ventilationsystem. Thus the system only draws enough out-side air necessary to maintain the contaminantlevel below a set level for any given time. Thisprovision has the potential for significant energysavings
When spaces are unoccupied for long periodsof time, ventilation is not generally required un-less necessary to avoid the accumulation of con-taminants harmful or obnoxious to incoming oc-cupants, the building or its contents. Ventilationshould be introduced before people arrive whennecessary to control building generated contami-nants
Natural VentilationNatural ventilation is defined as the movement
of air into and out of a space through inten-tionally provided openings such as windows anddoors, through non-powered ventilators, or by in-filtration
28
Natural ventilation in Maryland schools is nor-mally a supplementary rather than the primarymeans of ventilation. The ability to provide ven-tilation through operable windows is desirablefor emergency use; for example, as heat relief inthe absence of air conditioning or for purgingsmoke from a fire. If employed. natural ventila-tion should not prevent reasonable control of thethermal environment or otherwise impair the in-tended use of the space.
Space DistributionVentilation air should be distributed uniformly
within the occupied zone of a building space.
The amounts of outdoor air listed in Table 2 as-sume good mixing with recirculated air in thesupply air ventilation system, and uniform distri-bution within the occupied zone. Ventilation ef-fectiveness can be stated as the ratio of theamount of outdoor air reaching the occupantscompared to the total amount of outdoor air sup-plied to the space. Ideally, the ventilation effec-tiveness of a space should approach unity (1.0)
If the air distribution allows the ventilation airto bypass the occupant as it moves from Supplyoutlet to point of exhaust, the ventilation effective-ness will be less than 1.0.
Ventilation effectiveness of the air distributionwithin an area determines the capability of thesupply air to limit the concentration of contami-nants. The value can be less than 1.0 for bothconstant and variable a, volume (VAS-) systemsHowever, effectiveness may decrease for \AV sys-tems as air flow is reduced. Supply air flow re-duction occurs in \AV systems in response CO a re-duced thermal load (not necessarily coincidentwith reduced contaminant generation ).therefore.the capability to control contaminant levelsbe lowered.
A space with good air distribution and withsupply and return locations that will minimizechances of short circuiting supply air to the re-turn outlets can be expected to have a ventilationeffectiveness near 1.0. Inferior spac,e air distribu-uon and VAV systems operating at reduced flowcan result in ventilation effectiveness of 50 per-cent or less.
When ventilation is less than 100 percent effec-tive, outdoor air flow should be increased in aninverse proportion to compensate.
Variable Air Volume SystemsVariable air volume systems are commonly de-
signed to (1) maintain a constant outdoor air sup-ply to the air conditioning system (not to eachspace served by the system) or (2) vary the out-door air supply in proportion to total supply air.
33
VAV systems should provide a minimum totalair flow to an individual space at least equal tothe outdoor air rate stated in Table 2 for the max-imum occupancy anticipated.
System control should also assure that the sys-tem outdoor air quantity not be reduced belowthat necessary to avoid excessive contaminant lev-els as the total system air flow responds to spacetemperature control demand.
System DistributionMicrobial contamination can originate from
water reservoirs in the air conditioning distribu-tion system and cooling towers. Condensate pansin air supply units should be designed for self-drainage to preclude the build-up of such con-tamination. Provision should be made to permitaccess and periodic cleaning of cooling coils andcondensate pans in central air handling and roomunits. Where humidification is necessan; steam isthe preferred moisture source, but contaminationfrom boiler water or steam supply additivesshould be avoided. Recirculating water sprays andassociated reservoirs require frequent mainte-nance and blowdown. and their application in ed-ucational facilities should be limited to special sit-uations. Mineral contamination can also occurdue to evaporation of aersoling humidifiers andsprays; a demineralized make-up water sourcemay be required. If the relative humidity in oc-cupied spaces and low velocity ducts and plen-ums exceeds -0 percent. fungal growth and con-tamination can dramatically increase. Entrainmentof moisture drift from cooling towers into themake-up air and building vents should beavoided. stater in cooling tower systems shouldbe treated with bacteriocide. Performance of thetreatment should be monitored.
Ventilating ducts and plenums should be con-structed and maintained to minimize accumula-tion of dirt and moisture thereby inhibitinggrowth and dispersion of microorganismsthrough the HNAC system. They should be fabri-cated to minimize bends and internal lips or pro-lections at the joints. Such structures cause tur-bulent loses in the system and become sites ofdirt accumulation. Likewise insulating the ducthelps avoid cold surfaces that lead to moisturedeposits. Internal linings should be avoided ortheir use minimized. Access to the interior ofductwork should be provided at key locations forinspections and cleaning.
Particulate and gaseous contaminants from localsources within a space should be captured. col-lected. and removed as close to the source aspractical; for example. bench and hood exhaust inchemistry laboratories, photography darkrooms,art studios, and vocational shops
An adequate make-up air source. such as an in-let from adjacent space or outdoors. should beprovided for local exhaust, clothes dryers. andcombustion equipment. Contaminated air shouldnot be recirculated, discharged into attics, crawlspaces. or near outdoor air intakes.
Recirculation, Filtration and PurificationAirborne particle contaminants vary in size Mi-
croorganisms. dusts. fumes, smoke. and other par-ticulate matter may be captured by air filters.Many bacteria t 99 percent exceed I micrometerin size) are attached to larger particles such ashuman skin flakes. Viruses generally occur inclusters or on other particles. Tobacco smokeconsists of particulates in the respirable rangeand gases. Indoor air quality is greatly improvedwhen particulates are removed from both out-door and recirculated air. Thus the ventilation ss-tern should always employee filters or some othereffective air cleaning device.
Removal of particulate contaminants from bothoutdoor and recirculated air contributes signifi-cantly to indoor air quality by reducing the con-centration of such impurities within the occupiedspace. Therefore, the recirculation of air employ-ing filters or other effective air cleaning tech-niques to materially reduce the concentration ofparticulates generated within the building will im-prove the indoor air quality
Filters used should have been rated for effi-cienc-y i.e. tested in accordance with ASHRAEStandard "i2--6 Higher efficiency filters (above 30percent) can be effective at reducing levels of re-spirable particles. Filters can also be specifiedbased upon their removal efficiency for particlesof a specific particle size.
Filter efficiencies in the order of 30 to :+0 per-cent can frequently be justified. though slightlyhigher in cost than those of lower performance.because of the improvement obtainable with in-door air quality
Dust collectors may he wet. dry or electrostaticas required by particle size and loading
Control of gaseous contaminants. where neces-sary because of poor outdoor air quality or inter-nal generation, usually requires methods basedon sorption with or without oxidation. Suchmethods are generally expensive but may he tai-lored to deal with a specific contaminant. Com-monly used sorbents are activated charcoal andpotassium permanganate. The maintenance proce-dures attendant with such purification techniquesare complex and require special attention In ad-dition, sorption methods do not work well whenthey are applied to large areas or used to controlhigh levels of contaminants
29
34iiVAiLABLE
Building MaterialsSome building materials may produce varying
amounts of air contaminants. The decisions thatfacility planners and architects make concerningbuilding materials can increase or decrease thenumber of air contaminant sources This sectiondiscusses many common building materials andtheir relationship to indoor air quality
Pressed Wood ProductsSchool construction frequently uses pressed
wood products in a variety of applications Parti-cle and chip-boards are composed of processedwood often bound together by amber coloredglue composed of urea-formaldehyde. The mate-rials are pressed together to form a hard. smoothboard that can be used to form cabinets, wallsheathing, and furniture. Plywood and wall panel-ing are built up in layers of thin wood shavedfrom logs and bound intermittently with the sametype of glue used in particle board.
Since pressed wood products are in many casesmuch cheaper or more desirable than their alter-natives, they- have become very popular. especiallytrue in prefabricated or otherwise mass producedproducts such as cabinetry
Newly manufactured urea-formaldefy....-:: prod-ucts are believed to release much more formalde-hyde than do products which have been allowedto age. The half-life for these materials is fromtwo to five years and aging may eventually rendermost formaldehyde-emitting materials harmlessHigher temperatures and higher humidity areknown to increase overall emission rates fromthese materials. Most formaldehyde-related com-plaints have been associated with newly built and/or renovated structures. In view of the significantincreases in release rates for formaldehyde-con-taining materials when they are exposed to heatand humidity. these materials should not beplaced in areas where heat and humidity are ex-pected.
Federal regulation (CFR 24 Part 3280) ad-dresses formaldehyde emission from pressedwood products used in manufactured homes. Anybuyer can obtain plywood and particleboard thatwould comply with this standard if specified inthe construction documents The National Par-ticleboard Association and the HardwoodPlywood Manufactures Association have a volun-tary standard for formaldehyde emission (NPA8-86 and HPNIA FE-86) which equate to the fed-eral standard.
Concrete, Brick, and RockThe main pollutant of concern from the pres-
ence of concrete, brick or rock products is radongas. However, truly hazardous radon emanation
30
rates are rare. Studies and surveys of concreteused in various parts of the United States haveshown that emanation rates from random con-crete samples have only small magnitudes. Ratesfor brick and block are. typically. even lower.
Gypsum BoardGypsum is a major component of wall-board
(sheet rock). Athough it has been theorized thatgypsum made with phosphorus-containing mate-rial would produce significant amounts of radon.surveys have indicated that no significant increasein indoor levels of radon have been attributed tothis source.
Roofing MaterialsAsbestos-containing roofing felts have been
used in construction since the early 1900s andcontinue to be used today Typically roofing feltsare used as an underlayment for shingles to en-sure waterproofness of the roof Roofing felts arecommonly 10-15 percent asbestos and may be-come friable as they age and deteriorate.
Building, Pipe, and Duct InsulationThe primary insulation materials to have an ad-
verse impact on indoor air quality are:
Urea-formaldehyde foam insulation (UFFI);and
Sprayed, troweled, or pre-formed asbestos-containing acoustical, fireproof, and thermalinsulation.
In the past, UFFI was used as an insulation ma-terial because of its many desirable properties.UFFI could be injected as a liquid into existingwalls and then foamed to drastically increase itsvolume, enabling it to completely fill any voids inwall spaces. The precise formulations used inthese applications were usually proprietary, but.essentially. UFFI consisted of the same glue usedin various pressed wood products. a strong acidused to cure the glue. and a foaming chemicalcalled a surfactant. These agents were mixed atthe injection point and immediately introducedinto the wall to be insulated.
Environmental factors and improper formula-tion can lead to significant emissions of formalde-hyde from this type of foam insulation. High hu-midity increases the decomposition rate of thepolymer. leading to formaldehyde release. Excessresin in the mixture will also evaporate over a pe-riod of time. since it is not chemically bound. Inaddition. temperatures above that of a normalroom will significantly aggravate both of theseconditions UFFI has now been banned in Canadaand parts of the United States.
Asbestos has been used in a wide variety of
0111 tr no1' Ri 35llt,
building materials. Asbestos can give off verysmall fibers when it is disturbed or degraded.The fibers will float in the air and. when inhaled.may become lodged in the lungs. In light of thehazards posed by the presence of asbestos fibersin the air, it is essential to avoid the use of thesematerials in new construction.
Caulks, Sealants, and AdhesivesThese compounds are used in a variety of ap-
plications. Caulks are used around windows anddoors to lower infiltration rates through buildingenvelopes. Caulks are also used in bathroomsaround showers. water fixtures, and tile to pre-vent water leakage. Sealants are commonly usedto waterproof surfaces and roof joints Adhesivesare used to install asphalt tile, to secure wall andfloor panels. and to fulfill a variety of mis-cellaneous needs
VOC emissions from sealants, adhesives, andcaulks are difficuk to characterize. A large num-ber of different compounds have been found CObe emitted from these materials. The compositionand intensity of the emissions vary depending onthe compound. In large part, these emissions de-pend on the type of solvent used in the specificformulation for each compound. Also, emissionrates tend to be highest during the curing period.Studies to date indicate that it would be prudentto reduce the use of these materials to the extentpossible and provide adequate ventilation whenin use.
Floor Coverings, Carpets, and Vinyl ProductsAdhesives used to apply flooring often contains
VOCs capable of causing health problems Themain contaminant emanating from carpet is for-maldehyde used as glues in carpet backings Vinylproducts can off-gas plasticizers. Both these emis-sions diminish dramatically over time. Wool fiberscan cause allergic reactions in sensitized indi-viduals. Vinyl asbestos tile remains in manyschool and office buildings. Acceptable work anddisposal practices must be used when repairing.removing, or otherwise disturbing this material.
PaintsPaints are highly variable mixtures of V0Cs,
and it is difficult to predict emission rates VOCrelease is shortterm during the curing processwith much lower levels over a long period oftime. Paint should be applied and cured only inwell-ventilated conditions.
Thermal Environment
Air TemperatureThe air temperature in a space that is likely to
produce acceptable comfort to a majority of occu-pants is dependent upon several interacting van-
ables. They include individual physiology.clothing, activin,; and preference. For classroomsand offices where students. faculty, and staff aremainly sedentary, 68° to -6`17 represents a rangeof acceptability during winter. During summer, therange of acceptability will be higher. The effectsof other variables upon the acceptable level of airtemperature are discussed below
Radiant TemperatureThe body transfers heat to and from surround-
ing surfaces. such as walls or windows, by radia-tion. The rate of exchange is dependent upon thetemperature difference between the body. thespace geometry, building construction. and the lo-cation of the individual. A space enclosed evenpartially by cold walls will require a higher airtemperature for comfort than one with surfaces atspace temperature. especially for those seatednear the cold surfaces For example. studentsseated near a large window without a source ofheat CO warm the glass surface will notice radiantheat loss to that surface during cold weather.They will generally prefer a warmer room ormore clothing than others in the room fartheraway from the outside wall. Radiation to the bodyto or from the cold or hot surfaces may be asym-metrical (e.g.. radiation on the hack. but not thefront) to a degree that discomfort will result re-gardless of adjustments in air temperature Suchdiscomfort can occur where a person is seated indirect sunlight or close to a large. unheated orunshaded single-pane glass window.
UniformityAir temperature within a room generally in-
creases from floor to ceiling If a sufficiently largedifference exists in the occupied zone so that thetemperature at the head is more than =,°F higherthan near the floor, discomfort may result Goodair mixing. and insulation of wall and floor sur-faces can reduce temperature differences
Floor TemperatureTo minimize foot discomfort. the surface tem-
perature of the floor (hould he between tyST and84°F. Floors of occupied spaces above unheatedareas require adequate insulation. Similarly. floorsabove boiler rooms may require insulation. if notfor foot comfort. to control heat gain to the spaceabove.
Temperature ChangeSome space temperature controls can produce
sufficiently large changes or rapid rates of changein the operative temperature (as defined by ASH-RAE) of a space that will cause discomfort. Con-trol strategies that may cause this phenomena aretwo position (on-off), wide dead hand (a largespace temperature span between modes of airconditioning when the control provides neither
31
36
WiPi AVAILABLE
heating nor cooling). and wide propormininghand i requiring a large air temperature iihange atthe control to ar\ the heating or coilingminimum to maximum capaein I For example. aprolonged oft-ocle fair a contrail t,f a heater (Inan iut,ide wall haul)) re'ult in di AN n draft, at thewall and a large i.hange in temperaturein the lower text! tit the iik.k.upied zone do,,e Itthe wall
HumidityIn educational fat:lime, the thermal effect of
hurnidin in the comliirt of ,edentan. indnidual,
Nmall It the humidin level is too high or low..kincern, mat arise over mold or bacteria growthand re,pirator health effects It is uNually nece,-,arx to limit humidin level, in winter Ik) prevent,..ondensation (in windtiws metal Nash and U11111,41Lied %x
Comfort ChartFigure I taken tram the .LtfRAE canclard
CcI9Al. de,cribe, generalk ai.Leptallle range,temperature and humidin for lig,hck clothed!immix ,ek.lentarx adult'
0.
G.
aI
oc
70
65
60
55
50
45
40
35
30
252015
5
Figure 1
_____
_
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40Al Ih__r0
4 _
_..
:I.
404
211...
till
4.
:. t .
lilt
Oo
il fill
ss0
1 1 lilt60 60
OPERATIVE TEMPERATURE
5
0
5
0900F
Accepuble ranges of operative temperature and humichn for persons clothed in npcialsummer artd winter clothing. It light. mainly Setlenurv. xZmn
1:1
O
O
rTr
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Air MovementWhile little or no air movement max he neces-
sarx to achieve thermal c(nnfort. the dilution ofc(intammants within the occupied zone or sub-ii,nes will require effective dilution with adequateamounts of xenulation air (outdoor (3r recirculated air appr,,priatek conditioned by filtration.
in or 1.3,,th) supplx and return air distri-bution sxstems strung occupies zones should hedesigned and operated to achieve effective xenula-non and temperature uniformity during all oper-ating modes during the occupancy period Inwinter. average air nu ement above 30 feet perminute in the occupied zone max result in un,(imt.ortable drafts
ClothingThe insulation value of clothing varies depend-
ing upon the season and the outdoor climate in-door clothing worn in winter can be twice thatworn in summer Thus the comfort range of oper-ative temperatures is higher in summer than inwinter Since this shifting of the comfort tem-perature range IN usually consistent with energyconservation It also is a sound basis for operationand. where necessary. seasonal adjustments ofspace thermostat settings. Additionally, appropri-ate attire to the season should he encouraged topromote comfort and effective energy use
Activity LevelThe range of comfortable operative tem-
peratures shift downward as the average phi stealactivitx level and metabolic rate become higherthan the lexel for lightly clothed. mam) sedentaryactivi upon which Figure I is based. For equalclothing insulation. industrial arts shops withhigher lesels of activity than the average class-room could have comtort ranges 3°F below therxpical classroom However, this shift in the com-fort range could he materially offset by shedding
, some Llothing a common occurrence withthe onset tit greater physical activity.
ZoningBuilding spaces with dissimilar heating and
cooling load characteristics. such as amount ofwindow exposure. occupancy patterns. and inter-nal energy sources should have independentmeans of temperature control Interior spacesgenerally should not he on the same temperaturei,ontrol zone as spaces on the perimeter of thebuilding In winter. interior ;paces frequent) maxrequire cooling while perimeter spaces max re-quire cooling or heating.
Interior spaces. such as offices. ma\ he groupedoarin.u,n tone when the thermal Itcad (liar
auenstics and kt.tipano profiles .ire quite sunclassrooms. libraries and g\ nmasiums
-I wild be is mein separate Is
Where a satisfactory thermal environment musthe provided for certain sections of a school build-ing at times when most of the building is un, cc
cupied and unused. separate systems with !ridependent control of heating and cooling w ill henecessary For example. it would he un-cc(momical to air c(mdition an entire sch,,,,1building in summer months w hen (ink the ,,tt",,estart may he at work and require Lomtc,rtconditions
38 4141 WaiLABLE
Specific EducationalPrograms
In the design process for public school facilities,architects, planners. engineers, and educatorsmust be aware of the potential health hazards
associated with specific educational activities. Thefollowing table addresses each activity its potentialindoor air contaminants, and recommended con-trol methods for eliminating or reducing potentialhealth hazards.
Specific Educational Programs (Table 3)Potential Contaminants Control Methods
VISUALARTSAREAS
Art materials that may affect indoor air qualityand personal health include Class containingsilica dust. fumes and gases produced duringKiln ruing painting. pigments in powderedform. varnishes and lacquers. gone. wood,meal. plastic. wax. acids. inks. solvents
I Never work with products when the composition is unknown:Obtain material mien' don streets on products used:
3 Use less hazardous substitutes for hazardous materials, i.e. asbestos-free Lila. leas -free glues moot premixed rune: ranpowdered pigments. glazes. and colorants.
t Develop a list ci =moils not to be used e g. benzene. carbon tetradilonde. teteachloroethrlem. thlototorm rn
.:ttlorcethvkne. arbon disulfide duoxane. and phenol:; If al all possible. provide educational aantines that do riot require eespirotors:o Use appropriate protective equIpment such as gloves, face sruelds. and aprons. 0 respuwors are used lie requiremenis
in OSHA regulation 29 CFR1910 134 must be metMum= good housekeeping:
8 Follow operated methods of dtspostrig of hazardous substances according to Maryland Department of tne Environs rat
Regulations,Mechanical. Local atm% (a minimum of 100 fem. pane. across the cite ci the noodi MUSE be presided wnen ',sexingwith hazardous materials This tricludes the use of coma: hoods oar kilns. movable ethaust hoods for "axing. sorosbooths for air brush and paux sparing and slot hoods or enclosed hoods for acrd etoung
THEATER
CRAFT
AREAS
Theater crafts including props. scenery lignt.ng. and costume areas use or produce a widesanely of mac materials. These materials indude powdered pigments and thes. fireproofingthemicals. various apes of plastic resin coatingsystems. spray adhesives and glues. welding andsoldering materials. sawdust floor waxes. metalrouge. powdered metals. vermiculite. and pauils
I Purchase only materiols that have labels.2 Obtain material skew dais sheets for all products.3 Substitute soarer based prcouos when possible.
Choose products in solution rather than powdered form.Use appropriate protective eqtopment. I e. glazes. goggles.
o Libel containersKeep containers closed when not in use
8 Mechanical 'hexer workshop areas and backstage 211:25 should be given the same consideration for ventilation as arus-triol education and visual arts laboratories Provisions should be made to accommodate use various is of activates in
herent to theater operations. r e. welding, spat painting cutting and millingg. Theater ope dials thould rave a tont etc-
h:tut SNCRI for processes that produce urbane cone/mounts.
LNDUSTRIAL/
VOCATIONAL
SHOPS
IndustholAbatiortal education operationsMuch hose porrinal halts hazards include ma-.:turung. ceramic comong, dry grutithng. formingand forging, grinding openuons. mores metals.open surface tanks. pant sprawl, pang vapordegreasuig gas furnaces or amen heating opera-tions r annealIng balong, diving etc L high tempenzures for hot cuting unlagged steam pipes.process equipment art grinding, and gas orelectric arc welding.
I Substitute a less harmful =LIMA for one that ts dangerous to heakh.I Change or 11141 a process to mtnimue student coma:3 Isolate or enclose a process or work operation to reduce the number of persons exposed.
Use wet methods to reduce generation of dust in operations.; Use appropriate personal promo/Ye devices as recommended by the manufacturer
to Exercise good housekeeping including cleanliness of the work place. waste disposal and adequate waxing.
aIMectionical
Industrial arts facthues must be thermally teemed for unr-round use with special attention being given to meson.really forced air systems that provide for the ventilation and circulation of fresh ail The amount d ventilation air 'egutted is dependent upon the apes sof activities to be condoned. This should be determined early in the design process. because it is important for student and teacher comfort and the promotion of equipment from nut andcorrosion damage due to mess humidity.
b I Special consideration must be given to local eduust from labs (or special ants-mes. such as for names generated Pswelding furnaces. masonry dust and spew painting, Pohester or Rainless steel =oust hoods ono duos are re An
mended for fumes from the use at plastic rnateruls.tc) An exhaust system must be prided for aril welding booth area Each welding Iran should meet az a minimum
MOSHA standards.d1 s means a exhausting engine tunes to the outside must be prattled in instructional are, where Interrua Witbuy
son engin es are used.tet Separate fi AC controls tor industrial arts loboraiones should be provided if evening programs or we I ne Indust-ix
arts facility is planned at times other than during the school .day.fh tin ethausi unseen with HERA filters should be used when changing brake luungs
3-i
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Potential Contaminants Control Methods
WELDINGANDCUTTINGAREAS
.k number of potentially hazardous materialsare employed in fluxes. coatings. cowenngs. andHer metals used in welding and cutting or arereleased to the atmosphere dung welding andaping. These include. but are not hinged to.cadmium. fluorine compounds. zinc. lead, beryl-hum. mercury. chlonnaei chrome. twdroarbons. carbon monoxide.
I Store flammable gas cinders and omgen Mincers n storage separated by 20 feet or a Darner 3 feet rugn fusing a onehour fire resistance rating.
1 Secure and store cluiders %tete they cannot be knocked over.3 keep valve protective caps in place when clInciers are used4 Conduct all welding aria cutting at a safe distance from flammable hazards.
Shut off valves when Minders are not being used:o Protect nearby students from ultraviolet welding flash A welding screen area is a useful technique in gm regard.
Keep exposure trom cutting and welding fumes within acceptable limas. Use tool exhaust to meet attestable 'amts.S Mechanical
at A local exhaust sin tern is the most effectne means of control for airborne contaminants produced by welding or atang Local extuus can be provided by several types of equipment including fixed enclosures board. ireety monblehocc.t, and down-draft bencnes After a system is installed and set in operanon. AS performance shout( be cneoceo to-et gut it meets engineering 5peetiCulOnS. correct rate j au flow duct seloclues. and negative pressures seeYlOSPIA 1910/521
SPRAY
BOOTHSSprat booths are commonly used for sprat'
punting Some booths are used for bleaching.cementing. glazing. metalizing. cleaning, Ofwelding Flammable materials. %loots musts.combustible residues. dug. or deposits are cornmon contaminant
I Cse noncombustible material such as steel. concrete. or masonry in construction2 Design spray booths to direct air flow toward the exhaust outlet.3 Construct the interior surfaces of sprav booths to be smooth and continuous without eases inc :.e.simed to present
pocketing of residues. facilitate cleaning, and wasting without Lniury4 Keen the interior surfaces of booths free of combustible deposits see NlOSHA ISO)1s Noni ,rpousuple ierr.011 .;n
ings are available.Prcwide explosion-proof lights and switcnes Keep portable lamps away from spray opermors
o Keep sprinkler heads clean.Make sure that belts and pulleys inside the booth arc fially enclosed,Ground electric drvtng apparatus.
9 MechanicalGeneralAll spraying areas should be presided with mechanical ventilation adequate to remor flammable acornMRS. or powders to a safe location and to control combustible residues Mechanical senuauon snout,: tie xeot n ts-
erauon at all times while spraying operations are being conducted and for a sufficient time nerearter :c alka.from dung coated articles and drying finishing material residue to be exhausted.
bi Ventilating and exnaust systems should be in accordance with the =cum for blower are crust wens tor vierremoval NIP!, No 31.Ensure that electric motors for exhaust fans inside booths or ducts are explosion-oral
di Assure a ventilation rate across the face of me paint spray' booth at least 100 fpm
SCIENCELABS
Explosives. corrosives flammabletoxic chemicals. oxidizing materials. gases. vatpots. mtgs. smoke. solvents. and nonionizing ra.:Jam are common contaminants
I Secure all compressed gas Minders.2. Have appropriate equipment and materials available for soil control.3 If ?ussible. purchase chemicals in class -size quantities only.
4 Libel all chemicals accurately with date of receipt or preparation. initiated by site person resp,n.sibie LIJ pertinent oreaUU01131V information on handling.Follow all directions for dispostng residues and unused portions of reagents.
o Store flammable liquids in small quantities.Maintain a complete Inventor; cf chemicals.Use diluted substances rather than concentrates whenever possible-.
1 Use instructional techniques which require me least quantity ot matenals.10 Use films. videotapes. and other methods rather than experiments glyph-mg ruzardous substances.II Storage Facilities
an Never store chemicals in aisles.to Install chemical storage shelves with lips. and never used stacked boxes in lieu d sne:vecci Use or explosionproof refrigerators for lab storage,di Flammable and toxic enemas requite.' carefully planned cabinet or main The room comet -,is! ..,--z-arber.
Yenulued Rooms must contain smoke and hear detectors evlosion.proot liming. stag. :tee --alb:nes Inc riainaoudas Rooms should be air conditioned and hurradgv controlled.
12 Mechanicallaboruors hoods are expected to capture all gases or aerosols released within it.
,bi The location of the hood is Yen- important whenever possible. the should be foaled gong an outer wail and tarfrom any doorway to avoid turbulence from opening and closing doors Placing hoods tin cuter wads also ail as -oreasy' placement ci ducting to the outside with a minimum of bends and elbows Outside ex.suust mug De :cued toavoid re-entry into the budding by wag of open windows. fresh-air vane. etc.Regularly check hoods for proper air flow
TEACHER'S
LOUNGE
contaminants include cigarette smoke. cooking odors carbon monoxide. furniture and rug"lots : iropldehrde. cleaning fluids. and du-
plicating fluid.
I Prohibit smoking or nave two separate lounges.Clean up duly, including vacuuming.
3 Lie the least hazardous cleaning agents when possible.4 Mechanical
a Mechanical ventilation should be based upon the protected number of ernoknees using the rteequipment to be installed e g. star. retngeraror. microwave oven. Follow me just ksHRAE star.,:ard ,r can per
person.Ibi yams should have local waist
DUPLICATING Contaminants include methyl alconol methanal). ozone. and ammonia
ANDCOPYINGAREAS
I tPash exposed skin after each duplicating run.2 Allow duplicating paper to dn. before collating and stapling,3 Allow orals' properly trained staff to use equipment4 Do not use duplicating fluid as a cleanup solvent.
avoid spilling. develop spill procedures that follow the manufacturers recommendations6 Mechanical Prcwide adequate simulation as recommended by the manufacturer
PHOTO
LABS
Contamirunts include toners aromatic hydro-carbons ozone. heat.
Follow manufacturers recommendations.2 Obtain material safety data sheets on toners and arriers.3 Follow manufacturers guidelines for minimum acceptable flair space4 Mechanical Provide adequate Yenulanon to meet manufacturers recommendations in all roysin wiere :rritctinorui. cr
ORS are used
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. 01P ff
Case StudiesThe following case studies are discussed to il-lustrate typical examples of indoor air qualityproblems in schools
Case 1:Students and faculty in the science wing of a
middle school began to experience headaches.eye, nasal irritation, and chest tightness associatedwith an intermittent foul odor. Since a source wasnot apparent, the problem was thought to be dueto discontented teachers. Considerable hostilityresulted, with the ensuing conflict between theparent-teacher association, the administration. andteachers union well documented in the local pa-
Per
visits to the school rooms indicated no im-proper use of science equipment and adequatethermal control and humidity
An outside consulting group distributed asymptom questionnaire that confirmed the symp-toms. Lung function tests were normal. Oneweekend an indicator smoke was injected into thesewer system and emerged in the ventilationducts of the rooms. Review of the building indi-cated improper sealing of the sewage system dur-ing construction. Sealing of the waste ducts re-solved the odor and the symptoms.
Comment: Often indoor air complaints beginwith the recognition of an odor and irritation. Inthis case. the selection of an outside consultinggroup was important for several reasons.
1. The source of the problem was not initiallyidentified.
2. The symptoms persisted.
3. Considerable hostility and bad press had oc-curred that might have been avoided by anearlier consultation.
Case 2:Faculty members complained of extreme fa-
tigue and lethargy as well as dry mouth and eyesThese symptoms occurred in the late fall andearly spring, particularly in the afternoon.
Review of the rooms indicated an average tem-perature of 83°F. The symptoms occurred inrooms that faced west and had sun in the after-noon.
Shades were installed to decrease radiant heatand temperature adjusted to -2°F Symptoms wereresolved.
41r .`"" `-1", F t r,f. f. 77 EDE
Comment: Thermal discomfort is a common andreadily resolvable cause of indoor air problems.Thermal discomfort is well recognized to causedecreased productivity Hot, sleepy students cannot learn. A visit to the room at the time of symp-toms is the way to recognize this problem.
Case 3:The teacher and students in several classrooms
suddenly detected an acrid odor and developedtearing of the eyes and coughing. The teacher im-mediately evacuated the classroom and took thestudents to the gymnasium. Investigation revealeda truck carrying chlorine gas had been in an acci-dent. Students were evacuated from the schoolfor the day until the spill was cleaned up.
Comment: The outside environment can posean immediate and sudden danger. Disaster plansare important.
Case 4:A student with asthma began developing
wheezing while at school, requiring several tripsto the nurse and sick time. Investigation indicatedthat remodeling was occurring in the adjacenthall and paint fumes were entering the classroom.The painting was then scheduled for non-schoolhours, and the student had no further exacerba-tions.
Comment: A range of organic vapors. includingcologes and perfumes, can exacerbate asthma.
Case 5:Teachers complained of eyes. nose, and throat
irritation in classrooms located on the first floor.They noted intermittent odors of unclear origin.Investigation of the building indicated that sciencerooms were located on the next floor, above theclassroom where symptoms occurred. When a co-logne was poured down the drain in the sciencelab, the odor was discernible in the classroom be-low. The drain in an unused sink in the back ofthe classroom was found to be improperly sealed.The odor and symptoms were resolved with seal-ing of the drain.
Comment: Ingenuity can be used to tracefugitive odors and irritants.
Case 6:A school secretary developed nasal stuffiness
and itching of the eyes in the spring and fall. Eval-uation of this condition by art allergist indicatedthat the secretary was allergic to oak trees andrag weed. Treatment of allergies improved thesymptoms.
Comment: Upper respiratory symptoms can be
caused by allergies. It is important to distinguishbetween work-related and non-work-related con-ditions.
Case 7:A grade school teacher developed eye itching,
nasal congestion. and wheezing associated withbeing in his classroom. The symptoms had notoccurred previously. Careful review of the class-room environment indicated that the symptomsbegan when the class started a project on animalsand began keeping guinea pigs in the room Re-moval of the animals resolved the symptoms
Comment: Just as there are people allergic tocats and dogs. there are people allergic to smallanimals.
Case 8:A group of teachers in an administration build-
ing developed recurrent mucous membrane irri-tation, sinusitis, and fatigue requiring frequent ab-sences. All were located along a single corridor.
Administration failed to respond to calls askingthat the problem be addressed. The teacherscalled in an consultant who cultured legionellafrom the water supply The building was evacu-ated. and rrvspaper headlines appeared.
Review of the history of the symptoms andserology indicated that symptoms were not due tolegionella infection. However, water leaks andflooding had been occurring for several Years andobvious profuse mold growth was present inrugs, on ceiling tiles, and in filters from heaters.
The carpets were removed, filters changed, andduct work cleaned. Landscaping, roof repairs. andsealing prevented future leaks. The original teach-ers were unable to return to that office area with-out a rapid recurrence of symptoms. confirmedby medical evaluation. New occupants have notyet developed symptoms.
Comment: Because a possible pollutant is identi-fied doesn't mean that it is the cause of the prob-lem. A systematic evaluation may be required.drawing upon the knowledge of experts.
Case 9:A teacher began to experience eye nasal irrita-
tion, and fatigue while at work. He initially ig-nored the symptoms. but then found he had diffi-cult concentrating and could hardly teach,particularly in the afternoon. Over several monthsa pattern developed: symptoms would occur afterworking six hours on Monday, four hours Tuesday.two hours Wednesday. By Vecinesday evening hewould crawl into bed, sleep until noon ThursdayOn Friday he would return to work but would
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again experience irritation and fatigue that wouldgradually resolve over the weekend. His erraticwork pattern caused him to disciplined by theprincipal and to be labeled a "problem teacher.
Medical evaluation confirmed chronic upperrespiratory irritation and symptom diaries con-firmed a work-associated pattern. He had pre-viousl been an excellent teacher and did notabuse drugs or alcohol. Review of his work loca-tion indicated that his classroom had poor ventila-tion and frequent water leaks. It was a basementroom that had previously been used for storage,but was converted to a classroom because of lackof space.
On recommendation by a physician, he wasmoved to a new classroom. His symptoms re-solved and he returned to full productivity
Comment: On rare occasions, individuals maydevelop marked and disabling symptoms in spe-cific environments. If a review of the locationdemonstrates no remedial cause, relocation maybe necessary
Case 10:A clerical worker in a school district began to
develop nasal congestion and shortness of breathwhile at work. The symptoms became progres-sively more severe and required repeated physi-cian visits. lost work, and daily medication. Medi-cal evaluation indicated her lung function wasreduced to -0 percent of normal values andblood tests showed positive IgG precipitins (ablood protein indicating an allergic reaction)against the mold aspergillus niger. Air samplesfrom her work environment indicated the pres-ence of high levels of aspergillus niger in the ven-tilation system in her office.
She was removed from her office. Over sixmonths her lung function improved and her:,%mptoms resolved.
Comment: This is an unusual example of a se-rious. mold-induced lung condition.
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Existing StatutoryAuthority AndGovernment ActivityFederal Government
The Environmental Protection Agency is thelead agency within the federal governmentfor control of air pollution The legal man-
date for EPAS authority is derived primarily fromthe Clean Air Act that gives EPA .csponsibilicy for-ambient air,- a term interpreted to mean thatportion of the atmosphere external to buildingsThe U.S. General Accounting Office (GAO) con-curs with this interpretation. but has acknowl-edged that indoor air pollution has received littlesupport precisely because no one federal agencyhas jurisdiction over nonindustrial indoor en-vironments.
In addition to the Clean Air Act. several otherstatutes are interpreted to allow the EPA to takeaction on indoor air quality The Toxic SubstancesControl Act (TSCA) is aimed at controlling haz-ardous air pollutants EPA has already used thisstatute to require asbestos management inschools and is currently considering the need forregulatory action to deal with the issue of formal-dehyde exposures. The Federal Insecticide.Fungicide. and Rodenticide Act i FIFRA) providesa mandate for the regulation of pesticides. includ-ing their application indoors The Uranium MillTailings Radiation Control Act it. MTRCAI appliesto uranium mill tailings. especially as the areused for landfill in residential areas or in the con-struction of dwellings. Because such uses couldlead to elevated radon concentrations indoors.EPA has established guidelines for acceptableradon concentrations inside homes built in highrisk areas. The Safe Drinking Water Act i q)N.XA)might also be used to deal with indoor radonproblems in instances where drinking water isderived from radon-emitting substrata Becausevolatile organic compounds and radionudidesfrom hazardous waste sites can migrate throughthe soil and enter nearby buildings. the Compre-hensive Environmental Response. Compensation.and Liability Act (CERCLA) or 't.iperfund Author-ity could also be used to address certain indoorair quality problems
Congress appropriated $2 million in fisLal sear198.4 for EPA to intensity its research efforts on in-door air quality Another $2 million was anpropri-ated by Congress for fiscal .ear l9 8i ONerall. cur-rent funding tor indoor air quality researchconstitutes about 3 percent of EPA's total airnon research budget
39
Besides EPA, a number of other federal agen-cies have responsibility for specific aspects ofnonindustrial indoor air quality. The OccupationalSafety and Health Administration (OSHA) is re-sponsible for safeguarding workers' health in theworkplace. Nevertheless. most OSHA activitieshave focused on industrial work environments.with relatively little attention given to problems innonindustrial s ttings. such as building-related ill-
nesses in office buildings.
The Department of Energy (DOE) is responsi-ble for energy conservation programs that affectresidences and new buildings DOE has fundedstudies to develop, evaluate, and standardizemeasurement techniques. as well as research COexamine human health effects from organic va-pors. airborne particles, and radon. The Bon-neville Power Administration (BPA) in Oregon iscurrently financing a protect to measure a varietyof indoor pollutants inside both new and existingbuildings within its service area and to determinethe impact of weatherization measures on indoorair quality.
Ensuring that consumer products are safe anddo not present unreasonable health risks is theresponsibility of the Consumer Product SafetyCommission (CPSC) CPSC has banned the use ofasbestos-containing spackling compounds, pro-posed a ban of urea - formaldehyde foam insula-tion (overturned in court), and initiated studies ofemissions from unvented combustion appliances.including kerosene heaters and gas-fired spaceheaters
The Department of Housing and Urban Devel-opment ( HUD) establishes building standards forHID rundeci protects and material standards formobile home construction HUD has requiredthat inCoor radon concentrations in high naturalradium areas of Montana and South Dakota hebelow established minimums before home buyersquality for HUD-assisted financing. HUD refusedto approve FHA-financed loans for new homeconstruction on reclaimed phosphate lands inHonda. due to possibility of elevated indoorradon levels HUD recently promulgated regu-lations specifying formaldehyde-emission limita-tions for ph'wood and particle-board products
The Federal Trade Commission i FTC) is responsible for ensuring that consumer advertisingcontains accurate. truthful. and useful intormationThe FTC recently charged rwo manufacturers ofroom air cleaners tilth talseh advertising thattheir devices eftechvelx remove ((Awe() smokeand other polluants tram indoor air In reachingconsent agreements with the FTC. both com-panies agreed not to misrepresent the capabilities
t their air
io
During 1983, the Congressionally-mandated in-teragency Committee on Indoor Air Quality(CIAQ) was established to coordinate federal re-search activities. Representatives from ERA. DOE.the Department of Health and Human Services(DHHS). and CPSC serve as co-chairs. Among theother federal agencies involved in the CIAQ areBPA. the Department of Defense. FTC. the GeneralServices Administration (GSA), the National Aero-nautics and Space Administration. the NationalBureau of Standards. OSHA. the Tennessee Valley
Authority. and the Department of TransportationThe CIAQ is presently compiling an inventor.. offederal indoor air research to identify needed re-search by both the public and private sectors
State and local health agencies have been moreactive than federal agencies in dealing with in-door air quality issues Massachusetts. for in-stance. banned the use of urea-formaldehydefoam insulation, and both Minnesota and Wiscon-sin have promulgated formaldehyde standards innew mobile homes. In California. the sale and op-eration of unvented combustion space heaters foruse in residential buildings is prohibited. Mansstate and local governments (primarily cities )
have instituted anti-smoking ordinances
Through the Pesticide Applicators Law ec:r ion
within the Department of Agriculture. the state otMaryland regulates the use of pesticides inschools and other buildings In 19'9. Marx landbecame involved with asbestos hazards in schoolbuildings mainh through a technical assistanceprogram tOr local school officials The state hasdeveloped resources to investigate low level for-maldehxde exposure and formaldehyde has beenmeasured in sexeral chools in respiinse tii Liplaints No specific regulations regarding indoorair pollution have been enacted. however. Marx-land is still active in the technical assistance as-pects of indoor air pollution investigations A list
of consultants working in the indoor air pollutionfield has been developed and is available fromthe Maryland Department of the Environmentschool officials seeking technical information inindoor air pollution matters may call the Mary-land Department of the Ens ironment ati 301 )225-c- S5
State and local health departments are the
agencies that deal closely with citizens concernsand questions about indoor air quality In recentsears. complaints about inadequate indoor .firqualm and requests for information about spe .
ilk: indoor pollutants i i e . td rn-Udell\ de and .Lsbestir.) have increased signincandc A recent na-tional survey reN eiled that 32 state', haveprogram it staff responsible tOr evaluating exposures to one i,r (mire r pollutantsTherm -nine states have programs to assess nom
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Maryland State Dept. of EducationOffice of Administration and Finance
Office of School Facilities200 West Baltimore StreetBaltimore, Maryland 21201
