1.0
Introduction to Indoor Air Quality
Purpose:
In this module, we review basic EPA guidelines and documents to
better understand what indoor air quality is all about.
By showing the strong emphasis that EPA places on system hygiene
and proper operation and maintenance, attendees will understand that
their role as HVAC professionals extends into IAQ as well.
Text referenced in the seminar include the following
1.1
The Inside Story: A Guide to Indoor Air Quality
1.2
"Should You Have the Air Ducts In Your Home Cleaned?"
1.3
Mold Remediation in Schools and Commercial Buildings
2.0
Health Affects Associated with Poor IAQ
Purpose:
In this module we discuss some of the general health problems
associated with poor indoor air quality.
We also define the difference between SBS and BRI, using case
study examples. Education
is provided regarding the difference between allergic reactions and
asthma, and the IAQ factors that may serve as triggers to each.
Attendees are provided with resources where they can refer
customers with asthma or allergy problems.
2.1
Typical Symptoms of Poor IAQ
2.2
Building Related Illness versus Sick Building Syndrome
2.3
Asthma and allergy, and associated intervention programs.
3.0
Fungal & Bacterial Contamination
Purpose:
In this module we explain the differences between fungi, bacteria
and viruses. We explain the
conditions that allow mold to grow indoors, and explain where mold
growth typically occurs. We
also discuss in very basic terms the procedures to be implemented in a
mold remediation project.
3.1
Biology 101: mold,
bacteria and virus
3.2
Preventing Mold Growth:
keep
it clean and dry
3.3
Water Intrusion: typical
areas where buildings fail to keep
out moisture
3.4
Mold Remediation:
methods
of cleaning and
environmental engineering controls.
4.0
HVAC Systems
Purpose: In this module, we explain the role HVAC systems can play as
contributing to, or alleviating, IAQ problems.
Topics to be addresses include system sizing, maintenance,
hygiene, and issues associated with HVAC system replacement.
4.1
Engineering for proper sizing
4.2
Oversized or undersized systems and their effects on moisture
retention
4.3
Leaking
panels and the process of infiltration
4.4
Improper
installation causing infiltration
4.5
Preventive
maintenance cycles: routine
HVAC care and maintenance
4.6
Coils: Why they clog; Foaming coil cleaners and fin erosion;
alkaline
vs. acidic coil cleaners
4.7
Visual assessments for microbial contamination – how to conduct
a
basic assessment of all components
4.8
IAQ
issues associated with HVAC system retrofits and replacements
specifically addressing the contamination of the indoor environment
during servicing
4.9
Standards for Cleaning:
NADCA
ACR 2002
5.0
Filtration
Purpose:
In this module we explain the purpose of HVAC filtration, the
different types of filters that are available, and how to understand
filtration efficiency ratings by applying the rating systems to
different kinds of filters.
5.1
Fiberglass filters and ASHRAE Arrestance Testing
5.2
Electrostatic filters and Dust Spot Efficiency Testing
5.3
Pleated filters and the MERV rating system
5.4
Filtration Standard 52-1999
5.5
HEPA Filtration
5.6
DOP testing
6.0
Construction Issues
Purpose:
In this module we examine how to prevent IAQ problems during new
construction. We also
review some of the common reasons for newly constructed buildings to
fail to achieve good IAQ for occupants.
6.1
Avoiding the introduction of contaminants to materials and the
structure
during construction
6.2
Use of synthetic materials in new construction
6.3
Inadequate ventilation in new construction
6.4
Building failure – why so prevalent today?
6.5
Pressurization issues why building should be correctly
pressurized
7.0
Using the HVAC System to provide environmental control options
for
the
builder/client
Purpose:
In this module, we discuss ASHRAE standards for ventilation and
comfort, and then we talk about methods and products that can be applied
to existing HVAC systems to improve or control IAQ.
7.1
ASHRAE Standard 62-1989 and 62.2P
7.2
Ventilation systems – Source Control
7.3
Ventilation systems with heat and/or energy recovery HRV’s
(Heat
Recovery Ventilators) vs. ERV’s (Energy or Enthalpic
Recovery
Ventilators)
7.4
Advanced Filtration Systems
7.5
UV Lighting Systems
7.6
Stand-Alone Room Air Cleaners
8.0
Building Codes
Purpose:
In this module we discuss what construction codes say and how
their requirements impact the builder’s and installer’s ability to
create healthy indoor environments
8.1
What building codes are applicable and what do they say?
8.2
Accepted “Standard of Care”
8.3
Statutes of Limitations
9.0
Working with Your Customers to Solve IAQ Problems
Purpose:
In this module we teach attendees about the importance of
listening to clients’ concerns and working with them to develop
effective strategies for controlling IAQ problems.
9.1
Risks and Responsibilities of the Contractor
9.2
Know Your Limits:
referring
to physicians and other professionals
9.3
Identifying consumer needs
9.4
Recommending IAQ solutions
10.0
Additional Training Resources
Purpose:
In this module we inform attendees where to go to further their
education in IAQ.
10.1
IAQA Programs: Certified IndoorEnvironmentalist, Certified
Mold Remediator
10.2
“Healthy Indoor Air for America’s Homes” Univ. of Montana
10.3
ALA Health House Projects
10.4
Other Resources
