Issue link: https://hi.iaq.net/i/630729
Managing Buildings for Good IAQ 33 IAQ problems may occur even in buildings whose owners and managers conscientiously apply the best available information to avoid such problems. Those who can demonstrate their ongoing efforts to provide a safe indoor environ- ment are in a strong legal and ethical position if problems do arise. Select an IAQ Manager IAQ management will be facilitated if one individual is given overall responsibility for IAQ. Whether or not this person is given the title of "IAQ Manager," he or she should have a good understanding of the building's structure and function and should be able to communicate with tenants, facility personnel, and building owners or their representatives about IAQ issues. The IAQ manager's ongoing responsi- bilities might include: ■ developing the IAQ profile ■ overseeing the adoption of new procedures ■ establishing a system for communicating with occupants about IAQ issues ■ coordinating staff efforts that affect indoor air quality, and making sure that staff have the information (e.g., operat- ing manuals, training) and authority to carry out their responsibilities ■ reviewing all major projects in the building for their IAQ implications ■ reviewing contracts and negotiating with contractors (e.g., cleaning services, pest control contractors) whose routine activities in the building could create IAQ problems ■ periodically inspecting the building for indicators of IAQ problems ■ managing IAQ-related records ■ responding to complaints or observations regarding potential IAQ problems ■ conducting an initial walkthrough investigation of any IAQ complaints PRODUCTS OF THE REVIEW OF THE IAQ PROFILE AND OTHER EXISTING RECORDS ■ a priority list of locations and activities within the building that will require special attention in order to prevent indoor air quality problems ■ a list of staff and contractors whose responsibilities need to be included in the IAQ management plan Review IAQ Profile and Other Existing Records If the IAQ manager was not actively involved in developing the IAQ profile, one of the first tasks will be to review the profile carefully. The manager can start by also identifying building locations with a potential for IAQ problems, staff and contractors whose activities impact indoor air quality, and other building occupants whose activities impact indoor air quality. In addition to information from the IAQ profile, it may be helpful to review lease forms and other contractual agreements for an understanding of the respective legal responsibilities of the building manage- ment, tenants, and contractors. Incorpora- tion of IAQ concerns into legal documents helps to ensure the use of proper materials and procedures by contractors and can help to limit the load placed on ventilation equipment by occupant activities. Assign Responsibilities/ Train Staff The assignment of responsibilities varies widely between organizations, depending upon the routine activities to be carried out and the capabilities of the available personnel. It would not be appropriate for this document to suggest how IAQ-related responsibilities should be allocated in your organization. For example, issues of access in buildings with tenant-occupied space highlight the need for cooperation between building managers and the IAQ management will be facilitated if one individual is given overall responsibility for IAQ.