THE ISSUE OF INDOOR AIR QUALITY

Concerns over indoor air quality (IAQ) have propelled it into the forefront of the workplace environment, and it appears it will become a dominant issue confronting facility management and maintenance personnel well into this century. As the public has become more aware of the health and comfort implications of IAQ, pressure has increased on commercial facilities to maintain an acceptable level of air quality.

Like many other building issues, IAQ problems can result in tensions between the occupants affected and those with the responsibility for the building s management. We are now learning that successfully resolving IAQ problems is based as much on a person s understanding that something is being done to resolve the problem as it is on the actual expenditure of resources leading to the solution. Consequently, a rapid and well-thought-out response to calls for assistance begins to build the foundation for a positive relationship.

Before discussing the issue of maintenance of mechanical systems and its effects on IAQ, it is important that the reader understand the variety and range of factors which can affect IAQ. This chapter discusses the types of sources which can create a concern for IAQ and how pollutants are distributed and ultimately can be controlled. It also discusses the impact that building occupants can have on IAQ. In addition, information regarding current legislation and proposed guidelines, as well as a table offering suggested preventive maintenance scheduling, is included.