What are some risks of poor indoor air quality?
It can cause discomfort, lost productivity, illness and even, for some victims of Legionnaire’s disease, death. Q: What causes IAQ problems: A: Many IAQ problems are actually caused by building and HVAC systems design. An air intake located above a loading dock, for instance, could draw in vehicle exhaust and distribute carbon monoxide, oxides of nitrogen and diesel soot to every cubicle. Systems without sufficient fresh air exchange can allow CO2 and volatile organic compounds to build up. The wrong construction materials can emit excessive chemicals from glue and paint. Another big factor is system operation and maintenance. Air pressure, temperature, humidity and operating cycles must all be properly adjusted to balance operating efficiency with the comfort of building occupants. Leaving systems off until occupants arrive in the morning might save money, for instance, but it will also allow pollutants to build up in the air. Better to start systems early and condition the air before
