Page 31 - OHS, April/May 2025

IAQ is not a static issue.
It fl uctuates with seasons,
work schedules, and even
employee headcount.
Building a Culture of IAQ Awareness: Involving Employees
It’s easy to forget that employees are on the front lines when it comes
to noticing changes in air quality. Oft en, they’re the fi rst to experi-
ence symptoms related to poor IAQ, such as headaches, eye irrita-
tion, or respiratory problems. Creating a workplace culture where
IAQ is openly discussed, and employees are encouraged to share
feedback can be helpful in preventing IAQ-related health issues.
Establish a simple reporting system that creates a direct feed-
back loop where employees can log IAQ-related concerns. Th is
could be anything from noticing strange odors to experiencing an
increase in allergic reactions while in the workplace. Ensure that
these reports are taken seriously and followed up with prompt in-
these reports are taken seriously and followed up with prompt in-
spections. Th is kind of feedback loop not only builds trust but also
spections. Th is kind of feedback loop not only builds trust but also
allows professionals to identify emerging problems quickly.
allows professionals to identify emerging problems quickly.
IAQ management isn’t solely the responsibility of safety profes-
IAQ management isn’t solely the responsibility of safety profes-
sionals. Employees play a crucial role in maintaining it too. Host
sionals. Employees play a crucial role in maintaining it too. Host
workshops or include educational segments during safety briefi ngs
to teach employees how their behaviors, such as blocking vents or
improperly storing chemicals, can negatively impact IAQ. When
they’re empowered with the knowledge, employees become proac-
tive participants in IAQ maintenance rather than passive bystanders.
Managing IAQ isn’t a set-it-and-forget-it operation. It’s a con-
tinuous, evolving process that requires attention to detail, proac-
tive assessments, and cross-functional collaboration. By setting
dynamic IAQ standards, leveraging real-time data, and integrating
workplace design strategies, you can stay ahead of the curve and
create environments that prioritize both health and productivity.
For workplace safety and health professionals, taking a leader-
ship role in IAQ management means going beyond compliance—
it’s about fostering a holistic approach to well-being. Th e time in-
vested in IAQ today will pay dividends in the long run, leading to
happier, healthier employees and a more effi cient, resilient work-
place.
Aaron Schroeder, Au.D, Business Director at TSI, has 20+ years of
experience in product management, innovation, and technology.
Partner with industry-leading experts to address
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