Microbiological growth within the HVAC system, duct work, drain pans, and air filters can go undetected for long periods, spread throughout the building, and cause serious illness or death (for example, through Legionnaire’s disease). When designing these systems, provide for easy access for inspection, cleaning, draining, and replacement in these areas.

Determine which building spaces could be prone to high levels of humidity and moisture, such as restrooms, kitchens, locker rooms, indoor and outdoor swimming areas, and the basement or crawlspace. Pay close attention to the design, product selection, and ventilation of these spaces. Include a section in the IAQ management plan about regular inspection and maintenance in these locations.

Consider the following when writing your plan for ongoing IAQ management and designing for mold and moisture management:

Consider including the following in the IAQ plan: design recommendations for the architect and mechanical engineer, steps for preventing moisture buildup during construction, and plans for remediation if building materials become wet or moldy.

Identify an IAQ manager who will coordinate activities to minimize the impact of IAQ-problems. This person’s job might include responsibilities such as:

establishing education or training programs for operations staff,
reviewing all major projects and staff activities for their IAQ implications,
reviewing cleaning service and pest control contracts,
conducting monthly inspections for indicators of IAQ problems, and
responding to IAQ complaints.

Draft the IEQc10 plan for ongoing IAQ management, and arrange for it to be implemented. The plan should include project goals and scope of IAQ management, an outline of regular building and HVAC inspections, ongoing strategies and maintenance for the prevention of moisture and mold during operations of the building, remediation strategies if mold or other air quality issues are detected, and it should clearly identify who is responsible for implementing each plan component.

Review the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) document, Building Air Quality: A Guide for Building Owners and Facility Managers (see Resources). The IAQ plan will be based on this document.

You can earn an Exemplary Performance point for this credit through IDc1. There are not specific benchmarks for how to earn the point, but consider some of the following options:

an operational plan for dealing with excessive mold sources on the exterior of the building,

a detailed plan for educating teachers and staff on recognizing symptoms in themselves and kids,

or a design or ongoing maintenance plan for other IAQ problems, like radon and soil gases.

Following best management practices for mold-control should limit liability exposure for the project team and school district, but be very careful (and consult with a lawyer) before saying or doing anything that could be construed as a guarantee that there will be no mold.

Keep costs low by starting early in the design stage and by understanding building science - how to keep moisture out of the building and air stream, and how to manage humidity levels through HVAC design.