Designing and operating a building to minimize mold exposure has the potential to reduce student and teacher absentee rates due to mold-related illnesses.
Collect and keep on file HVAC operations manuals and repair records, IAQ complaints, MSDS for cleaning supplies, and pest control chemical information.
Develop an IAQ profile that describes the building structure, function, and occupancy features that impact IAQ. The profile should give building operators a better understanding of the current status of air quality in the building and baseline information on factors that have a potential for causing problems in the future. As part of the IAQ profile you will log complaints, collect HVAC system data, understand set points and operations controls, and conduct regular building walkthroughs to look for areas of potential IAQ problems.
During occupancy, watch for visible signs of mold growth and musky odors, signs of moisture damage or discoloration, and locate the source. On a regular basis:
Make sure drain pans are working properly.
Follow the HVAC maintenance schedule.
Verify that air filters are changed and scheduled for cleaning.
Watch for leaky pipes and repair them immediately.
Watch out for sprinklers that may be aimed at the building, and check for any accumulation of rainwater near the foundation and on the roof.
Check for unsanitary conditions and odors.
If any mold is found, determine the cause of moisture or mold and see if you can fix the moisture source. You might need to provide additional dehumidification or ventilation along with cleaning the contaminated area. For mold where the cause cannot be determined or is persistent, retain an industrial hygienist, toxicologist or a building science expert to identify the risks and perform any necessary remediation. Remediation efforts can be as extreme as removing walls, ceiling, and floors. It is best to address mold before it gets to such an extreme level of contamination.
Conduct the thermal comfort survey in compliance with IEQc7.2: Thermal Comfort—Verification and log complaints. Determine if corrective action measures are required.
Train the operations staff to identify and respond to any IAQ issues that may arise. It is helpful to educate teachers to immediately alert the maintenance staff to any areas of water intrusion or IAQ problems.
Verify that HVAC set points are properly adjusted to limit RH at or below 60%. Make sure the operations staff understands the importance of the given set points.
Identify an IAQ manager to hold responsibility of the building IAQ. They will conduct and review the IAQ profile, track IAQ-related documents and records, and monitor general facility operation and maintenance, housekeeping, pest control, and renovations and remodels. It is important to clearly define their responsibilities.
Conduct regular building walkthroughs to monitor airflow, temperature, humidity, odor, and other IAQ problems. It is a good idea to do a walkthrough with project drawings to take note of locations with issues.