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significant investments in ensuring proper air flow and tempera- ture control. Tenants stated that the air seemed stale and stagnant, especially first thing in the morning, and that odors from cleaning products took a long time to dissipate. Some employees even com- plained of eye and skin irritation. Because the system was new, we had access to engineering documents that showed how much fresh air should be delivered throughout the plaza. And, sure enough, our testing showed that carbon dioxide was building up in one area of the building —indicating that the system wasn’t providing the fresh air it was supposed to. The client was helpful and coopera- tive, and they took responsibility for tracing the problem to its root cause. The HVAC contractor and engineer who designed the sys- tem got involved. It was determined that the air handling system in one section of the facility wasn’t functioning properly, and the issue was addressed.
Often, the solution is much simpler. I visited a client whose employees were concerned about an unusual, lingering odor. They were convinced that an expensive and far-ranging air quality monitoring program was needed. We learned that the graphics department in an adjacent office (connected to the same ventilation system) was using a new type of spray adhesive. They agreed to stop using it, and the problem was solved immediately.
Start With These Steps
This is a complicated topic, and there is certainly a time and place for calling in a trained professional. But you don’t need to be an
expert to do an initial assessment of your facility’s air quality. Start by trusting your eyes, ears, and common sense.
■ Look at the work setting. Are there protocols for maintenance, such as changing air filters? Any obvious signs of exposure or concern?
■ Listen to your employees. Are they comfortable? Do the temperatures and humidity levels seem appropriate? Any complaints about strange smells, or possible allergens?
■ Be aware of updates to the environment. Has anything changed, such as a new cleaning service, or the opening of a nearby construction site?
As I write this, we are in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, and offices nationwide are preparing their strategy for reopening. While it is very likely that property managers, tenants, and employees will take a more active interest in indoor air quality and air circulation, the main common-sense principles will remain largely the same.
Be mindful of ways to minimize risks, but also be cautious of unsolicited advertisements for duct-cleaning and disinfection services and equipment. There will always be someone willing to sell you something that you may not need.
Tom Burgess, MS, CSP, CIH, serves as Client Manager, Industrial Hygiene and Safety for T&M Associates, a leading national consulting, environmental, engineering, technical services, and construction management company.
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