Indoor Air Quality 101

With the current pace of innovation in MEP engineering, where the design and management of commercial buildings is becoming increasingly complex, the focus on indoor air quality (IAQ) has taken center stage. IAQ isn’t just a peripheral concern; it stands as a pivotal factor influencing the health, well-being, and productivity of those who inhabit commercial spaces.  In this blog post, we will review the basics of IAQ, delve into its definition, explore the impacts of poor IAQ on occupant health and productivity, examine common indoor air pollutants, and address strategies for its improvement. We will also touch on essential compliance standards, providing building owners with valuable insights into creating healthier, more comfortable indoor environments for all occupants.

What is Indoor Air Quality (IAQ)?

Indoor air quality (IAQ) refers to the condition or quality of the air within enclosed spaces, such as commercial buildings, shopping malls, schools, offices, and other indoor environments where people spend significant amounts of time.  IAQ encompasses various factors that collectively determine the cleanliness, safety, and overall healthiness of the indoor air.

The key components of IAQ include the presence and concentration of pollutants, humidity levels, temperature, ventilation, and factors that affect occupant comfort and well-being.  Maintaining good IAQ is essential as it directly impacts the health, comfort, and productivity of individuals within indoor spaces.  Monitoring and improving IAQ is important to ensure that the air occupants breathe is clean, free of harmful contaminants, and conducive to their overall well-being.

The Impact of Poor IAQ on Occupant Health and Productivity

Health Implications

Poor IAQ can lead to a wide range of health problems for occupants in commercial buildings. These health issues can manifest as allergies, respiratory disorders, and in some cases, more severe conditions such as asthma. Occupants exposed to poor IAQ experience increased absenteeism due to illnesses related to indoor air pollution.  Poor IAQ can also lead to lawsuits and difficulties in hiring new employees.  In extreme cases, particularly in regard to harmful contaminates in the air, poor IAQ can lead to conditions that require immediate medical attention or hospitalization. 

Productivity and Comfort

Occupants’ productivity and comfort levels are closely linked to the quality of the air they breathe. Clean, well-ventilated spaces contribute to a more comfortable and productive working environment.  Studies have shown that improved IAQ can enhance cognitive function, leading to better focus and decision-making. 

Good IAQ is not only good for the occupants, it is also good for business.

Common Indoor Air Pollutants in Commercial Buildings

Commercial buildings can be breeding grounds for indoor air pollutants. Some of the common culprits include:

• Dust and Allergens:  Accumulation of dust, pollen, and pet dander can lead to allergic reactions and respiratory discomfort.
  
  
• Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs):  These chemicals are emitted by building materials, paints, cleaning products, and office furniture.  Prolonged exposure to VOCs can have adverse health effects.
  
  
• Mold and Mildew:  Excess moisture and poor ventilation can create ideal conditions for mold and mildew growth, leading to IAQ problems and health issues.
  
  
• Tobacco Smoke:  Smoking in or near commercial buildings can introduce harmful toxins into the indoor air, affecting both smokers and non-smokers.
  
  
• External Contaminates:  Often the source of poor IAQ can be found outside the building.   The proximity of air intake vents to external pollution sources can seriously impact indoor conditions.  This can include proximity to streets, truck docks, bus stops, adjacent buildings, or other sources of harmful chemical pollutants.

Recognizing Common Signs of Poor IAQ

Identifying signs of poor IAQ is crucial for early intervention. Common indicators include:

• Unpleasant Odors: Foul or musty odors can indicate the presence of pollutants or mold.
  
  
• Visible Mold: Mold growth on walls, ceilings, or surfaces is a clear sign of excess moisture issues and poor IAQ.
  
  
• Increased Allergies and Respiratory Symptoms: If occupants report a rise in allergies or respiratory symptoms, poor IAQ may be a contributing factor.
  
  
• High Humidity: Excessive humidity can lead to discomfort and mold growth.
  
  
• Inadequate Ventilation: Stuffy or stale air can result from insufficient ventilation, trapping pollutants indoors.

Strategies for Enhancing IAQ in Commercial Buildings

Improving indoor air quality (IAQ) necessitates a proactive approach. Below are some key strategies to consider for improving IAQ in commercial buildings:

• Effective Ventilation: Ensure that the building’s HVAC system provides ample ventilation by bringing in fresh outdoor air and expelling indoor pollutants.  Code required minimums are just that, minimums.  Many applications require higher ventilation rates to ensure adequate IAQ.  In addition, ventilation effectiveness goes beyond just bringing in enough outdoor air.  Properly distributing that ventilation is also critical to the overall effectiveness of the ventilation system.
  
  
• Regular Maintenance: Implement routine HVAC system maintenance to prevent the accumulation of pollutants and ensure optimal system performance.  Drain pans must be maintained clear of obstructions so that they completely drain without accumulation of mold, mildew, or algae.   Filters must be changed on a regular basis, not just when they become so heavily loaded that they are impacting HVAC performance.  Maintenance of the temperature control systems or building management systems is also critical to ensuring that the ventilation systems are operating properly and within design specifications.
  
  
• Source Control: Identify and mitigate sources of indoor air pollution. This may involve addressing leaks to prevent mold growth and selecting low-VOC building materials. It may also involve relocation of the outside intake systems to avoid external sources of air pollutants.
  
  
• Air Filtration: Invest in top-quality air filtration systems designed to capture particulate matter and pollutants, thus enhancing the quality of indoor air. Higher MERV rating filters definitely improve IAQ; however, be cognizant of the static pressure they introduce or they could become counterproductive by overly restricting airflow rates. MERV rating vs. pressure drop must be balanced to achieve the optimal result.
  
  
• Humidity Control: Maintain appropriate humidity levels to prevent mold growth and ensure occupant comfort.  Humidity control includes both winter and summer levels.  Low humidity in the winter can cause drying of mucous membranes, reducing our ability to fight off pollutants. High humidity can encourage the growth of mold and the spread of infectious diseases. It is best to keep the humidity levels between the recommended 40%-60% whenever possible.  Some compromises to this range may be required in particularly cold climates where condensation can occur, raising the possibility of other contaminates in the air and possible damage to the building.

Considering Post-COVID Factors

The COVID-19 pandemic has profoundly impacted our perception of indoor air quality. Given the virus’s transmission through respiratory droplets, the importance of IAQ in shared indoor spaces has taken on unprecedented significance. To mitigate the risk of infections in the future, building owners should consider some of the following measures:

• Enhanced Ventilation: Increase the fresh air supply and enhance ventilation systems to reduce the concentration of airborne pathogens, thereby promoting a safer indoor environment.
  
  
• Advanced Air Filtration: Upgrade filtration systems to effectively capture smaller particles, including viruses and bacteria, providing an additional layer of protection against infectious agents.
  
  
• UV-C Technology: Implement UV-C disinfection systems within HVAC systems. This technology is capable of either killing or inactivating pathogens, offering enhanced safety for occupants.
  
  
• Humidity Control: Maintain optimal indoor humidity levels. It’s worth noting that some viruses thrive in low humidity environments, making humidity control an essential aspect of infection prevention.

By integrating these post-COVID considerations with proven IAQ strategies, building owners can create healthier and safer indoor environments for occupants, especially in a world where health and well-being are paramount concerns.

Compliance and Standards for IAQ in Commercial Buildings

Ensuring the indoor air quality (IAQ), in commercial buildings, meets established standards and regulations is paramount for the health and well-being of occupants. Numerous organizations and governmental bodies have taken significant steps to develop comprehensive guidelines and standards that aim to promote and maintain healthy IAQ within indoor spaces.

One notable organization that sets rigorous standards for IAQ is the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE).  ASHRAE has been at the forefront of defining IAQ standards for decades, continually updating and refining their guidelines to reflect the latest research and industry best practices.  These standards, particularly ASHRAE Standards 62.1 and 62.2, provide comprehensive guidance for ventilation rates and indoor air quality in commercial buildings. These standards offer detailed insights into the specific requirements for various types of buildings, taking into account factors like occupancy, building size, and the activities conducted within.  They outline the recommended ventilation rates necessary to maintain healthy indoor air quality and reduce the concentration of airborne contaminants, ensuring a safe and comfortable environment for occupants.  They also have recommended temperature and humidity levels to ensure a comfortable and healthy environment.

ASHRAE Standard 241-2023, Control of Infectious Aerosols

In light of recent events, it’s worth highlighting ASHRAE’s pivotal contribution to enhancing building safety through proper ventilation and filtration.  ASHRAE has recently approved a significant new standard known as “ASHRAE Standard 241-2023, Control of Infectious Aerosols.”  This standard is specifically designed to address and mitigate the presence of infectious aerosols in indoor spaces, offering a structured framework for achieving safer and healthier indoor environments. You can find more detailed information about ASHRAE Standard 241-2023 on the AIHA website here.

By adhering to ASHRAE standards and similar guidelines established by reputable organizations, building owners can demonstrate a commitment to responsible building management.  Compliance not only guarantees healthier indoor environments, but also contributes to a positive reputation, increased occupant satisfaction, and potential energy savings through optimized HVAC system performance.

Conclusion

Now that you’ve gained insight into the critical role of indoor air quality (IAQ) in commercial buildings, it’s time to take concrete steps towards a healthier and more productive indoor environment for your occupants.

At Schnackel Engineers, Inc., we specialize in providing innovative solutions to enhance IAQ in commercial buildings. With our decades of experience and cutting-edge technology, we can help you:

• conduct comprehensive IAQ assessments to identify and address existing issues,
• implement effective ventilation and air filtration systems tailored to your building’s needs,
• manage humidity and moisture levels to prevent mold growth and discomfort, and
• ensure compliance with IAQ standards and regulations.

Don’t compromise on the quality of the air your occupants breathe. Contact Schnackel Engineers, Inc. today, and let us partner with you to create a healthier, more productive, and environmentally responsible indoor environment. Your occupants deserve nothing less, and we are here to make it a reality.