A well-run indoor air quality (IAQ) management program yields substantial benefits for an institution, including all employees, faculty and students. In addition to the benefits of health and well-being, the expensive process of investigating and mitigating suspected IAQ problems can be reduced significantly or avoided entirely by employing good housekeeping and building maintenance practices.
A school building provides many opportunities for IAQ problems to develop. Schools contain a variety of special use areas such as kitchens, locker rooms, science laboratories, technology education rooms, darkrooms, art rooms, and cleaning storage areas, each with pollutant sources that can cause discomfort and health problems. IAQ problems may occur even in schools where a conscientious effort is being made to avoid such problems. However, schools that can demonstrate and implement ongoing efforts to provide a safe indoor environment are able to resolve IAQ issues quickly and maintain occupant comfort. Boston College Facilities Management Department takes a proactive approach to resolving IAQ issues. The office of Environmental Health & Safety (EH&S) is responsible for investigating and coordinating remediation activities with applicable departments to ensure building comfort is maintained.
The following links provide additional IAQ management information: