IAQ.net Resources

EPA Building Air Quality Guide-1991

Issue link: https://hi.iaq.net/i/630729

Contents of this Issue

Navigation

Page 35 of 227

22 Section 4 has been installed in inaccessible or out-of- the-way locations is frequently overlooked during routine maintenance. This is particularly true of items such as filter boxes and small capacity exhaust fans. Review records of complaints If there is an organized record of past occupant complaints about the building environment, review those complaints to identify building areas that deserve particular attention. 2. Conduct a Walkthrough Inspection of the Building The intent of the walkthrough inspection is to acquire a good overview of occupant activities and building functions and to look for IAQ problem indicators. No specific forms are suggested for this stage of IAQ profile development. However, the investigator should have a sketch plan of the building, such as a small floor plan showing fire exit, so that his or her notes can be referenced to specific locations. Detailed measurements of temperature, humidity, airflow, or other parameters are more appropriate to a later stage of profile development. However, chemical smoke can be used to observe airflow patterns and pressure relationships between special use areas or other identified pollutant sources and surrounding rooms. Odors in inappro- priate locations (e.g., kitchen odors in a lobby) may indicate that ventilation system components require adjustment or repair. (See Appendix A for further discussion of the use of chemical smoke.) The value of IAQ ventilation measure- ment tools to your operation will grow as you become more familiar with handling indoor air quality concerns. For example, if you do not own a direct-reading carbon dioxide monitor, it is not necessary to acquire one for the IAQ profile. Those who already have access to this type of instrument can take readings during the walkthrough as a way to obtain baseline Addition, removal, or replacement of HVAC equipment ■ Where the original equipment has been replaced, do the newer units have the same capacity as the originals? ■ Has new equipment been properly installed and tested? Where equipment has been removed, is it is no longer needed? Changes in room use ■ Is there a need for additional ventilation (supply and/or exhaust) due to increased occupant population or new activities within any area of the building? ■ Have new items of equipment (non- HVAC) been provided with local exhaust where needed? Look for unusual types or quantities of equipment such as copy machines or computer terminals. Check HVAC maintenance records against equipment lists Collect your existing maintenance and calibration records and check them against the construction documents (e.g., equip- ment lists and mechanical plans). See whether all components appear to be receiving regular attention. Equipment that PRODUCTS OF THE WALKTHROUGH INSPECTION At the end of the walkthrough inspection, you should have: ■ List of staff (and contractors) with responsibilities that could affect IAQ, including contact information: • names, telephone numbers job descriptions • notes on training and experience of building staff ■ Notes on the schedules and procedures used in: • facilities operation and maintenance • housekeeping • pest control ■ Sketch plan with notes showing: • pressure relationships between special use areas and surrounding rooms • locations in which general indicators of IAQ problems show the need for close monitoring or corrective action

Articles in this issue

Archives of this issue

view archives of IAQ.net Resources - EPA Building Air Quality Guide-1991