Issue link: https://hi.iaq.net/i/655416
Energy Savings Plus Health | INDOOR AIR QUALITY GUIDELINES FOR MULTIFAMILY BUILDING UPGRADES 59 PRIORITY ISSUE 23.0 PROTECTING INDOOR AIR QUALITY (IAQ) DURING CONSTRUCTION (continued) ASSESSMENT PROTOCOLS (AP) MINIMUM ACTIONS (MA) EXPANDED ACTIONS (EA) MA 23.2 Protect HVAC Systems Protect HVAC systems from contaminants during work activities. • Seal openings in existing ducts located in work areas to avoid infiltration of dust and debris. • New HVAC equipment, ducts, diffusers and return registers should be stored in a clean, dry place and should be covered to prevent dust accumulation. • If operating an HVAC system that interfaces with work areas, ensure the system does not pull return air from the work areas and install air filters with a MERV 8 rating or higher during construction activities. • Visually inspect ductwork after construction activities have been completed and clean internal surfaces as needed to remove dust and debris. • Ensure all filters that were used during work activities have been removed and new filters are properly installed before operating the HVAC system during occu- pancy. MA 23.3 Handle Mercury Properly If mercury is identified, determine whether the building has a mercury spill re- sponse plan and provide guidance to the property manager and occupants on how to perform proper clean up. Refer to EPA guidance on clean up. Take particular care not to break any mercury-containing materials during upgrade activities. If an accidental spill occurs, refer to EPA guidance on clean up. Properly dispose of fluorescent lighting and CFL bulbs that may be part of energy upgrade activities. MA 23.4 Protect Highly Absorptive Materials Protect any existing absorptive materials (e.g., fabrics, furnishings, carpets) by fully covering with plastic sheeting. Fully secure all edges of sheeting to protect materi- als from airborne contaminants and emissions caused by construction. Schedule the installation of new absorbent materials after major dust and pollut- ant-generating activities have been completed. Ensure that materials have not been exposed to moisture and are dry before installation. MA 23.5 Safely Install Spray Foam Insulation Employ safe work practices to avoid exposure to SPF insulation. Follow the manufacturers' printed instructions for vacating building occupants, and other unprotected individuals not involved in the application of the SPF products, from the premises during and for some period after SPF application. Require and confirm SPF to be installed in strict accordance with manufacturer's printed requirements. Note: The curing time (complete reaction) of SPF insulation varies depending on the type of product, application technique, temperature, humidity and other factors. While the SPF is curing, it still contains unreacted chemicals, which include isocyanates and proprietary chemicals. Manufacturers estimate that it can take approximately 1 to 3 days after application for the two-component high-pressure "professional" SPF system to cure fully and approximately 8 to 24 hours for the one-component foam to cure. Exposure to isocyanates may cause skin, eye and lung irritation, asthma, and sensitization. Exposures to isocyanates should be minimized. See EPA's Spray Polyurethane Foam Web page for more information. References for Priority Issue 23.0 Protecting Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) During Construction: American Chemistry Council: Spray Polyurethane Foam Health and Safety ASHRAE Standard 62.1-2013 – Ventilation for Acceptable Indoor Air Quality, Section 7.1.4.2 EPA: Building Air Quality Action Plan, Step 8: Establish Procedures for Responding to IAQ Complaints EPA: Mercury Releases and Spills EPA: Spray Polyurethane Foam (SPF) Home Insulation and How to Use it More Safely SMACNA: IAQ Guidelines for Occupied Buildings Under Construction See Appendix A: Worker Protection