People exposed to significant levels of nitrogen dioxide are at higher risk for respiratory infections. Standard 55 specifies conditions for acceptable thermal environments and is intended for use in design, operation, and commissioning of buildings and other occupied spaces. Ensuring that kitchen areas and locker rooms are well ventilated. ASHRAE and the US. Report to Congressional requesters on School Facilities. 686 0 obj <> endobj This three-volume guide presents guidelines for designing high performing schools, including issues of IAQ, ventilation and thermal comfort. Asthma is one of the leading causes of school absenteeism, accounting for more than 14 million missed school days in 2001. These emissions contribute to air pollution nationwide and are the primary cause of air pollution in many areas. Health Effects: Particulate matter is associated with a variety of serious health effects, including lung disease, asthma and other respiratory problems. Consultants should be able to describe how they expect to form and test explanations for and solutions to the problem. (B) The date that is 1 year after the date of the enactment of this Act. Health Effects: CO2 is an asphyxiate. Many other aspects are unique to schools: For more information, see Indoor Air Quality. When opened, however, air will move from inside (area of higher pressure) to the outside (area of lower pressure). Schools can minimize exposure to secondhand smoke by implementing and enforcing nonsmoking policies, particularly indoors and near school entrances. Moreover, the asthma rate among children ages 5 to 14 rose 74 percent between 1980 and 1994, making asthma the most common chronic childhood disease. EPA has classified secondhand smoke as a known cause of cancer in humans (Group A carcinogen). This type of system should be engineered on a case-by-case basis. (September 1999)* Prepared by U.S. EPA. Check linkage to other events in and around the school. A printed edition of the IAQ Guide's Part I summary guidance is available for purchase in the ASHRAE Bookstore.. ASHRAE Design Guide for Low- to Mid-Rise Multifamily Residential Buildings, IAQ Best Practices for Design, Construction and Commissioning, Optimizing Indoor Environment: Increasing Building Value 6 hours. Thus, transportation and grounds maintenance activities become factors that affect indoor pollutant levels as well as outdoor air quality on school grounds. Children breathe more air, eat more food and drink more liquid in proportion to their body weight than adults. The 2017 edition of ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 55 incorporates seven published addenda to the 2013 edition, and provides three compliance methods: a graphic method for simple situations, an analytical method for more general cases and a method that uses elevated air speed to provide comfort. These strategies may include redesigning and repairing structures, establishing watering and mowing practices and storing pesticides in well ventilated areas. Mobile sources emit several significant air pollutants that affect human health and the environment, including: For more information about these pollutants, see Appendix E: "Typical Indoor Air Pollutants". Queuing of buses for pick-up and drop-off and periods of idling during the bus commute itself may be particular problems. Changes in the revised edition include reorganization and clarification of existing provisions, more stringent compartmentalization requirements for attached dwelling units, and a new requirement for supply or balanced dwelling-unit mechanical ventilation systems for attached dwelling units on enclosed corridors. Some solutions, such as major ventilation changes, may not be practical to implement due to lack of resources or the need for long periods of non-occupancy to ensure the safety of the students and staff. (Fall 2001)* Prepared by U.S. EPA. EPA National Ambient Air Quality Standards list 0.053 ppm as the average 24-hour limit for NO2 in outdoor air. Source: ASHRAE Standard 62-2001, Ventilation for Acceptable Indoor Air Quality, Introduction and distribution of adequate outdoor air; and. As a result, concentrations of some airborne chemicals may be higher in new portable classrooms, especially if ventilation is reduced. Uncontrolled quantities of outdoor air enter buildings by leakage through windows, doors and gaps in the building exterior. 703-684-0084, Phone: 1-800-490-9198 Raising the temperature of the first condensing surface. Identify the problem or pest before taking action. Individuals that may be particularly susceptible to effects of indoor air contaminants include, but are not limited to, people with: Certain groups of people may be particularly vulnerable to exposures of certain pollutants or pollutant mixtures. The 62.1 Standard is for commercial and institutional buildings, while 62.2 is for homes. Because many people spend much of their time at home, the home is likely to be the most significant source of radon exposure. Describes EPAs major assessment of the respiratory health risks associated with exposure to environmental tobacco smoke (ETS). Reducing stress for school staff may involve new management practices, job redesign, or resolution of underlying labor-management problems. EPA's National Ambient Air Quality Standards list 15 g/m3 as the annual limit and 65 g/m3 as the 24-hour limit for PM2.5 in outdoor air. Molds can be found almost anywhere; they can grow on virtually any substance when moisture is present. However, if even simple progress reports are not given, people will think that either nothing is being done or that something terrible is happening. Examples of planned activities include: Notification of planned activities can also prevent problems from arising with students and staff with special needs. In fact, reduced idling will save money in most cases because idling wastes fuel. For example, lawn and garden equipment should be maintained regularly according to manufacturer guidelines to prevent problems that decrease efficiency and increase emissions. In addition to showing the districts support for an integrated approach to pest management, the statement should outline methods to: This policy statement can also act as a guide for the IPM manager while developing an IPM program. interact to affect how air movement distributes pollutants within a building. Specific lighting deficiencies or localized sources of noise or vibration may be easily identified. A thorough understanding of all the factors that interact to create indoor air quality problems can help avoid this undesirable outcome. Some IAQ incidents require immediate response for example, high carbon monoxide levels or certain toxic chemical spills will require evacuation of all affected areas in the school, and biological contaminants such as Legionella may require a similar response. Competent professionals will ask questions about your situation to see whether they can offer services that will assist you. Multi-story schools are more affected than single-story schools. Fact Sheet: Mold in Schools. (2) TERMINATION OF WAIVER. This shall include, but not be limited to: observation of damper position for differing settings of low limit stats and room stats, measurement of air pressure at room stats and outdoor air damper actuators, direct measurement of air flow through outdoor air intakes, and direct measurement of air flows at exhaust grilles, Test procedures used to evaluate ventilation system performance. Who will be notified of test results and other data? Establish and implement an Integrated Pest Management plan. Following are excerpts from Public Law 103-227, March 31, 1994. They tend to be closer to the outdoor temperature than other parts of the building surface for one or more of the following reasons: Sometimes mold growth can be reduced by removing obstructions to airflow (e.g., rearranging furniture). The first decision that must be made in dealing with an IAQ problem is whether the problem requires an emergency response, as shown in the diagram below. You may be able to adapt appropriate sections of the following sample performance specifications for your school. A better strategy would be to increase surface temperatures by insulating the exterior walls, thereby reducing relative humidity in the corners. Outdoor sources should also be considered since outdoor air enters school buildings through windows, doors and ventilation systems. The advent of higher performance glazing systems has led to a greater number of moisture problems in heating climate building enclosures because the buildings can now be operated at higher interior vapor pressures (moisture levels) without visible surface condensation on windows. Therefore, outdoor air entering through leaks in the building lowers the airborne moisture levels indoors. Molds can also trigger asthma. 330 North Wabash Avenue, Suite 2100 This debate may be somewhat perplexing outside of the U.S. and ASHRAE, where the health impacts of indoor air and their importance are much less controversial. Without open communication, any IAQ problem can become complicated by anxiety, frustration and distrust. Sponsors a voluntary diesel retrofit program. Failure to prevent or respond promptly to IAQ problems can: Indoor air problems can be subtle and do not always produce easily recognized impacts on health, well-being, or the physical plant. Contact: G. Rajhans, Health and Safety Support Services Branch, Ministry of Labour, 400 University Avenue, 7th Floor, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M7A 1T7. In naturally ventilated buildings, unacceptable indoor air quality is particularly likely when occupants keep the windows closed due to extreme hot or cold outdoor temperatures. Managing pollutant sources, the most effective control strategy, includes: Removing (exhausting fume hoods and local exhaust fans to the outside) point sources of indoor pollutants before they disperse. (September 2002)* Prepared by U.S. EPA. Sample performance specification language is provided at the end of this appendix in italicized font. Add to Alert. Thermal comfort and ventilation needs are met by supplying "conditioned" air, which is a mixture of outdoor and recirculated air that has been filtered, heated or cooled and sometimes humidified or dehumidified. Indoor Air Pollution: An Introduction for Health Professionals. ASHRAE and the U.S. EPA National Ambient Air Quality Standards list 0.053 ppm as the average 24-hour limit for NO 2 in outdoor air. (August 1993)* Prepared by U.S. EPA. It is winter and cold air cannot hold much water vapor. Pollutant sources and the ventilation system may act in combination to create an IAQ problem. For example: Establish methods for good communication among these groups of people, and educate or train them in their respective roles. Molds produce tiny spores for reproduction that travel through the air continually. There are six basic control methods that can lower concentrations of indoor air pollutants. Concentrations of indoor air pollutants typically vary greatly over time, and the specific contaminant measured may not be causing the problem. Check for distribution of a source throughout the ventilation system. Good IAQ is an essential component of a healthy indoor environment. Empty and clean lockers and desks at least twice a year. The decision to take IAQ measurements should be approached with caution. If this is an emergency situation, in addition to immediate action to protect life and health, it is vital that the school administration, parents of students and appropriate authorities be notified of the situation in a carefully coordinated manner. The standard describes the minimum requirements to achieve acceptable IAQ via dwelling-unit ventilation, local mechanical exhaust, and source control. * Prepared by U.S. EPA. Purchasing washable stuffed toys, washing them often in hot water and drying them thoroughly. Remedial action may be fairly straightforward, such as having more or fewer lights, making adjustments for glare and relocating, replacing, or acoustically insulating a noise or vibration source. This section addresses ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 62.1, ventilation for acceptable indoor air quality, and Standard 62.2, ventilation and acceptable indoor air quality in residential buildings, which are consensus standards of practice regarding ventilation and IAQ in commercial buildings (62.1) and residential buildings (62.2). While scientists do not fully understand the causes of asthma, outdoor air pollution and environmental contaminants commonly found indoors are known to trigger asthma attacks. EPAs document entitled Radon Prevention in Design and Construction of Schools and Other Large Buildings(EPA 625R-92-016) provides guidance for incorporating radon resistant and/or easy-to-mitigate features into the design of a new school building including design recommendations for heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems. is leaky. Dust particles may contain: Other particles may be irritants or carcinogens (e.g. Air pressure differences created by these forces move airborne pollutants from areas of higher pressure to areas of lower pressure through any available openings in: For example, as long as the opening to an inflated balloon is kept shut, no air will flow. Pollutants from building materials or from HVAC system itself, may build up during unoccupied periods. EPA adopted more stringent standards for gasoline-powered equipment, such as lawnmowers and string trimmers, which will lower hydrocarbon and nitrogen oxide emissions. Standards and Codes. Mold problems can be as extensive in cooling climates as they are in heating climates. See the Ventilation Checklist. An Office Building Occupants Guide to Indoor Air Quality. Local, state, or Federal government agencies (e.g., education, health, or air pollution agencies) may be able to provide expert assistance or direction in solving IAQ problems. The standard has a separate method for determining acceptable thermal conditions in occupant-controlled naturally conditioned spaces. Your questions and concerns about indoor air problems can frequently be answered most readily by the government agencies in your state or locality. An Update on Formaldehyde. Supply waterproof mats and walk-off mats over carpeted entryways and other areas used for drying clothing and umbrellas. Asbestos in Schools: Evaluation of the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA). In general, building code requirements are only enforceable during construction and renovation. NIOSH Recommendations for Occupational Safety and Health. Notify occupants and parents of planned activities that may affect IAQ. This can be done by: Either vapor pressure or surface temperature can be the dominant factor in a mold problem. Report to Congressional requesters on School Facilities. * Prepared by the U.S. EPA. Mitigation costs at the high end of the cost range are often associated with a mitigation strategy involving the renovation of school HVAC systems. ASHRAE STANDARDASHRAE STANDARD ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 62.1-2007 (Supersedes ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 62.1-2004) Includes ANSI/ASHRAE Addenda listed in Appendix I Ventilation for Acceptable Indoor Air Quality See Appendix I for approval dates by the ASHRAE Standards Committee the ASHRAE Board of Directors, and the American National Standards Institute. Environmentally friendly transportation choices. Often, a multi-disciplinary team of professionals is needed to investigate and resolve an IAQ problem. The mold can grow and become a pollutant source that releases spores into the classroom air. Provides information, recommendations and technical guidance for using radon decay product measurement methods to establish standard operating procedures. This Action Kit has been reviewed in accordance with EPA's policies. Nonetheless, your efforts may not have noticeably reduced the concentration of the contaminant or improved ventilation rates or efficiency. After defining a location (or group of locations), look for patterns in the timing of complaints. Vacuuming the classroom frequently and thoroughly. DRM. (December 1992) Arthur Wheeler. addition, ASHRAE Standard 62.1 for commercial buildings, and ASHRAE Standard 62.2 for residential buildings are consensus standards and represent the standard of practice for the building industry with respect to ventilation and indoor air quality. Guidelines for Conducting the AHERA TEM Clearance Test to Determine Completion of an Asbestos Abatement Project. Asthma can occur at any age but is more common in children than in adults. Immediate communication is vital, and is easiest if a few strategic steps are taken before an IAQ problem arises. Depending on the size and location of leakage openings in the building exterior, wind can affect the pressure relationships within and between rooms. Clear Your Home of Asthma Triggers: Your Children Will Breathe Easier. Beneficial landscaping can also: In addition, it can lead to cleaner water bodies for fishing, swimming and drinking due to reduced chemical use and erosion. Office of Cancer Communications. IAQ problems can be a serious health threat and can cause acute discomfort (irritation) or asthma attacks. Non-routine measurements (such as relatively expensive sampling for volatile organic compounds (VOCs)) should not be conducted without site-specific justification. Health Effects: Lead can cause serious damage to the: Children are particularly vulnerable. Indoor Air Quality ANSI/ASHRAE Addendum h to ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 62.1-2004 Approved by the ASHRAE Standards Committee on January 27, 2007; by the ASHRAE Board of Directors on March . There is also evidence that exposure to diesel exhaust from school buses and other vehicles exacerbates asthma and allergies. Do not allow school buses or other vehicles such as delivery trucks to idle on school grounds and discourage carousing. For extended periods of storage (e.g., wintertime), gasoline should be emptied from equipment and containers or a stabilizer should be added to decrease evaporation. In particular, young children may be particularly susceptible as they can encounter pesticides while crawling, exploring, or through hand-to-mouth activities. Maryland State Department of Education. Many problems can be simple to diagnose, requiring a basic knowledge of IAQ and some common sense. 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