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PEEL DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD
OPERATING PROCEDURES FOR ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH AND SAFETY IN BOARD FACILITIES
SECTION 2: PROCEDURES--GENERAL
SUBSECTION 2.14.11 INDOOR AIR QUALITY PROTOCOL
INTRODUCTION
This Guide was developed to provide general information and methods to improve IAQ. Specific strategies to improve air quality will vary depending on the occupant's comfort threshold and activities, the degree of ventilation flexibility within the building, and internal conditions as well as outdoor conditions, such as temperature, humidity, etc.
Most building occupants are aware of the health and comfort effects of IAQ. This document is intended to increase awareness of the sources of IAQ problems and available control measures to address IAQ problems.
DEFINITIONS
The Draft Report of the Inter-Ministerial Committee on IAQ, published by the Ontario government in September 1988, provides the following definitions:
INDOOR AIR QUALITY (IAQ)
IAQ refers to the physical, chemical and biological characteristics of indoor air in non-residential workplaces with no industrial processes or operations which can affect the comfort or health of the occupant.
The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) Standard 62-1989 defines acceptable IAQ as indoor air that contains no excessive concentrations of contaminants and causes dissatisfaction to no more than 20 percent of a building's occupants.
HEALTH
Health refers to a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.
COMFORT
Comfort is a subjective assessment of the whole environment where thermal, acoustic, air quality and visual factors are all considered.
BACKGROUND
People are concerned about the quality of air, both indoors and outside. The scope of the issue is vast and the causes of poor air quality are sometimes difficult to pinpoint. All school board personnel need to be aware of the potential health hazards associated with products and materials used in building cleaning, maintenance and construction, as well as in educational programs and activities.
The IAQ concerns of Peel District School Board facilities are not different from other educational facilities in the province. IAQ in schools is affected by factors which include:
- number of occupants in the room or building,
- activity of the occupants,
- type and amount of contaminants being generated by activities, processes, etc.
- lack of ventilation
- type and efficiency of available ventilation
- type, structure and age of a building,
- type of building materials,
- building's state of repair,
- outdoor air quality and conditions such as temperature, wind velocity and direction, relative humidity, and barometric pressure
The link between human shelter and the quality of indoor air is not new - even caves had IAQ problems. More recently, energy conservation measures have contributed to an increase in IAQ problems. During the 1970s, buildings were planned and renovated to reduce outside air infiltration. Windows were sealed to prevent costly heated or cooled air from escaping to the outdoors. Many of these projects were eligible for government funding/incentives.
The goal was to create an air-tight building which would reduce heat loss and conserve energy. An unfortunate side effect of these measures is a decrease in the volume of fresh air circulated. However, properly thought out energy conservation initiatives are not synonymous with poor IAQ.
IAQ problems can be divided into two categories; thermal environment, and air contaminants. Thermal environment refers to such variables as air temperature, humidity, air movement, uniformity of air temperature, and temperature of surrounding surfaces (e.g. walls, chairs or floors). These variables affect the level of human comfort or discomfort. In extreme cases, the thermal environment may contribute to health risk from heat stroke, etc.
A thermal complaint may be caused by outdoor conditions, drafts, uneven heating and cooling, temperature stratification, the proximity of an individual to a heat source, or any combination of the above. There may be other associated factors such as poor air circulation, lack of ventilation, improper clothing, change in activity level and so on.
Thermal variables, generally, have acceptable ranges. Air temperature of 22-26oC (summer) and 20-24o (winter) are recommended by ASHRAE to satisfy 80% of the population. This is not to suggest that if thermostats are set anywhere within the recommended range, eight out of ten people will be satisfied. It means that two people may prefer 22oC, four people may prefer 24oC and two people may prefer 26oC - for a total of eight satisfied people within this range.
The acceptable range for indoor relative humidity is 25 - 60%. Over-heating schools may result in complaints caused by low relative humidity, unless humidity levels are maintained. It is advisable to adjust the temperature to the low end of the acceptable range to maintain relative humidity and comfort levels. Additional clothing, such as a sweater or jacket, can be worn, if needed.
Air contaminants consist of numerous particulates, fibers, mists, fumes, bioaerosols and gases, some of which can impair human performance. High concentrations of contaminants may present a full range of health risks from mild irritation of the upper respiratory system to a serious health threat (acute). Long term exposure to low concentrations of contaminants may impact health as well (chronic).
STRATEGIES FOR IMPROVING INDOOR AIR QUALITY
Air contaminants are part of today's technology. Adequate fresh air is vital, however, additional measures should be taken to eliminate, reduce or control indoor air pollutants. Because IAQ is affected by various factors, improvement strategies are diverse.
ALL STAFF
- Purchase and use less hazardous products, e.g. latex (water based) paints and wood preservatives should be substituted for enamel or oil based paints and use low-odour, non-toxic inks and markers;
- Review the material safety data sheets or Product Information Sheets for specific products to determine ventilation requirements and proper procedure for use;
- Report to the Principal/Supervisor any fans or equipment that are not operating or not operating properly so that repair or replacement can be initiated;
- Report to the Principal/Supervisor any windows that are not functional or broken so they can be repaired;
- Report to the Principal/Supervisor any broken, wet or water damaged ceiling tiles.
- Encourage the development and use of good personal hygiene programs such as hand-washing to prevent contamination and the spread of disease;
- Locate photocopiers, laminators and other such equipment in ventilated areas. This equipment should be used for necessary items only. Schedule use during times of lowest building occupancy if possible.
- Ensure local exhaust ventilation systems remove contaminants at the source, i.e. hood exhaust in science labs, welding booths, ceramic kilns, photographic chemistry, etc.
- Appropriate place furniture and equipment to prevent obstruction of ventilation, air movement and air exchange. Do not block supply and exhaust grilles with books, posters, paper etc. Do not block heaters with clothing, footwear, boxes or paper etc.;
- Use mats to control rain water and melting snow from footwear and clean mats regularly;
- Prevent water and other liquids from spilling onto carpeted areas as this contributes to growth of molds;
- Do not use a closet, storage room or other unauthorized space as an office or work area;
- Uncared for potted plants support fungal and mold growth. Plants can improve IAQ and relative humidity levels, but they should be kept clean, soil changed frequently and not over-watered;
- Wear appropriate clothing for each activity. Dress in layers, especially on days when temperatures are likely to change dramatically. It is easier to put on a sweater than to raise the temperature;
- Use good housekeeping practices;
- Air out dry cleaned clothing before wearing them.
- Old furniture, equipment, carpets etc. should not be brought into the school as these articles may hold dirt, dust, pet hair, dander, mold etc.
- If painting, use products approved by Facilities Services or Health & Safety and restrict all painting activity to after hours.
CUSTODIAL STAFF
- Maintain housekeeping and cleaning programs to reduce dust levels. Ensure that vacuums are cleaned and well maintained;
- Check filters frequently and change when required. Clean fan units, supply air diffusers, exhaust air registers and vents regularly;
- Schedule the operation of heating and ventilation equipment, where system permits, to optimize the energy efficiency/comfort relationship;
- Check operation of fans, outside air dampers and air intakes regularly;
- Report any malfunctions, problems, etc. to the Area Supervisor of Maintenance and Operations.
FACILITIES SERVICES STAFF
- Continue to review permanent and portable building specifications to consider IAQ and improved technology;
- Isolate areas in buildings undergoing renovation to minimize dust transfer, i.e. enclosures;
- Schedule painting projects when the building is least occupied and the facility has an opportunity to "air out" whenever possible. Notify staff of planned painting projects;
- "Bake out" new buildings where possible by elevating temperatures to speed the off-gassing of synthetic vapours and/or increase exhaust ventilation via the use of fans, windows and ventilation systems;
- Continuously ventilate new and remodeled buildings during the first several months of occupation to remove odours and gases. "Air out" rooms that have newly installed carpet;
- Report and replace water damaged materials such as ceiling tiles and carpets as quickly as possible. Replace old carpets with smooth surface floors as the replacement program permits.
AIR EXCHANGE PROGRAM
It is important that building occupants use existing natural ventilation (windows and doors) wherever possible. Mechanical ventilation systems (fans and ventilation equipment) must be used in accordance with the manufacturer's directions in order to maximize air circulation. It is necessary to consider other factors such as outdoor conditions, occupant activities and operational needs within the building when adjusting natural and mechanical ventilation systems.
An effective air exchange program is important to provide adequate fresh air. Equipment must be in good working order to maintain an optimal air exchange program. If any equipment is defective, it should be reported to the Principal/Supervisor immediately for repair.
PORTABLES
Portables generally are equipped with doors, windows, exhaust fans and electric heaters to control the quality of air within the portable. Each portable should have at least four active air exchange periods per day at elementary schools. The schedule for these exchanges should include:
- before classes begin;
- at morning recess;
- during lunch period;
- at afternoon recess.
The air exchange procedure involves the opening of windows and/or doors and turning the exhaust fan on high speed for at least 5 minutes. This duration should be sufficient to change the air in the portable. The windows and doors could then be closed if necessary to allow a return to room temperature. Other air exchanges could be conducted when occupants are involved in other activities, i.e. gym or library.
At all other times fans should be on low speed and windows may be opened during occupancy to provide outside air in accordance with occupant activities. If the occupants are physically active, more fresh air may be required than when the activities are sedentary. Some windows may be opened to the 'indirect draft position' otherwise occupants should be positioned away from any drafts.
NOTE: The window panes may open from the top and the bottom. In this case, the air should enter above the inside window to prevent direct air flow onto the occupants. Other windows open from side to side.
Exhaust Fans
Ensure they are working as designed. Shutters on the outside of the fan should open and close. A guard should be in place to protect the shutters from damage. Most fans exhaust air from the building. Some can be set to intake or exhaust air. Many fans have two speeds (high or low), while some units have a variable (multiple) speed option. All fans make a greater noise on the high speed setting versus the low setting.
Windows
If openable, must be used sensibly in order to provide fresh air. During cold weather, windows should still be kept open at least a pencil width to allow air exchange. The responsibility for opening and closing windows in classrooms and hallways may be assigned to staff and/or students on a rotating schedule.
Heating
Units must remain clear of materials and furniture during operation to allow adequate heating of the air. Generally speaking, temperature output of the heating unit is controlled by a thermostat located in your room. Obtain adjustment information from your custodian.
Portable Fans
These are also used in several schools. Portable fans should be placed in front of opened windows so the fan will pull fresh air into the room from outside the building.
Air Conditioners
These may also be used. It is important to note, however, that an air conditioner cools the air within the room. It may not provide fresh air or improve air quality. Consult operation manual and check setting of controls.
INCRAPAKS AND PORTAPAKS
These units may have equipment in each classroom similar to that in portables. Others have ventilation units in each classroom, while a few others have a central exhaust ventilation system with each classroom having an exhaust fan, windows and doors.
If a room in an incrapak or portapak does not have an exhaust fan or ventilation unit, an exhaust fan may be requested via the Principal. The fan should be used during occupancy.
Doors in hallways that are used as fire separators are not to be kept open to allow ventilation, unless a door magnet connected to the fire alarm is used.
MAIN BUILDINGS
Older buildings are generally equipped with openable windows and exhaust ventilation only. Fresh air must enter the building through windows or doors. These buildings in particular should implement an air exchange program.
Newer buildings may have ventilation systems that bring fresh air into the building as well as exhaust the air. Other newer buildings may have ventilation systems which control humidity and temperature of the incoming fresh air in the entire building or a section of the building as well as exhaust air out of the building.
Windows in main buildings, particularly on the second floor, may have a restricted opening for safety reasons.
INDOOR AIR QUALITY INVESTIGATION PROCESS
Concerns with respect to IAQ are to be handled in the same manner as any other health and safety issue. Concerns are to be first brought to the attention of the Principal/Supervisor.
The Principal/Supervisor investigates the concern forthwith, by physically inspecting the area and investigating the matter with the involved staff member(s), including the custodian and the school safety representative or joint H&S committee member. It is preferable that all observations and factors are documented. All measures to control or correct the problem should be implemented as directed by the Principal/Supervisor as soon as practicable (i.e. open windows, activate fan, eliminate/control source of contaminant, enlist services of the Building Supervisor, Head Custodian, Area Supervisor, Facilities Services, etc.).
If the source of the problem or concern is not readily identified or resolved, the Principal/Supervisor advises his/her Superintendent and the Environmental Health and Safety Office of the problem along with any related information. Further investigation and alternative solutions will be explored at this time.
The Environmental Health and Safety Office, in consultation with Facilities Services and the joint H&S committee, will determine if an IAQ assessment is warranted. This assessment may include the following tests:
- carbon dioxide (CO2)
- temperature
- relative humidity
- carbon monoxide (CO)
- combustion products
- oxygen (O2)
- air flow/exchange rate
- microbials
Additional information and investigations may be required by the Environmental Health & Safety Office, Facilities Services, Principal/Supervisor or independent consultant to supplement the assessment. Physician confirmed illnesses of staff or students, consistent with exposure to moulds, will be assessed following the Health Canada Protocol (1995).
Recommendations for corrective measures will be provided by the Environmental Health & Safety Office in a final report directed to the Principal/Supervisor for review and/or implementation. If implementation requires funding beyond Superintendent of Schools approval, the issue may be taken to the Health & Safety Administration Committee in accordance with Operating Procedure Safety-17.
*NOTE: Isolation of an area, evacuation of occupants, or shutting down the ventilation may be required in certain emergency circumstances, i.e. chemical spill, gas leak, contaminated outdoor air, etc. See Emergency Evacuation Procedures and the Facilities Services Emergency Handbook.
CONCLUSION
Achieving good air quality requires an understanding by everyone of the sources of IAQ problems, how the thermal environment and air contaminants affect human health and comfort and the control measures available. Everyone has a part in identifying sources of problems and taking corrective measures.
Should you have any questions with regard to ventilation systems in your facility, contact the Principal, Building Supervisor or Head Custodian. For further information contact the Environmental Health and Safety Office and Facilities Services.
Sect 2.14.11
Approved 1995
Revised 1997
Amended 1999
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