Improving Indoor Air Quality (IAQ)

Building owners recognize that the built environment is complex and evolving. Each building presents unique challenges that can vary from hour to hour and season to season. The outbreak of COVID-19 has added a new element to this complexity. Health experts agree that the risk of indoor disease transmission differs based on occupant density, work- and traffic flows, the presence of “hot spots” (such as food preparation areas), social distancing, hand washing, disinfectant practices and the use of personal protective equipment.

Owners should undertake a “tactical approach” of their building system to ensure that it is operating per design conditions and current operational strategies. The results can create substantial energy savings or improvements to IAQ. Owners should consider several levels of review, each different in time, expense and comprehensiveness. 

Basic Assessment. Usually intended for single sites and smaller buildings, a basic assessment includes a limited site walk-through and a facility interview to help identify issues and solutions.

Observational Assessment. Includes visual inspections; photographs; annotated floor plans; spot checks of indoor air and water quality, temperature, and humidity; hand-washing support; and the observation of worker and patron flows. The resulting observational assessment identifies health and safety risks alongside possible solutions and next steps. 

Detailed Assessment. This assessment expands on the previous assessment to provide a more thorough assessment of a facility, including interviews with occupants of the building that may surface concerns about pandemic-related policies and enforcement. Rigorous protocols are followed for testing procedures and locations. This approach involves testing IAQ and water for contaminants; reviewing temperature and humidity trends; and assessing emergency preparedness, occupancy flow and physical distancing potential. A comprehensive report of findings will include test results (especially in areas of poor ventilation or with the greatest risk of contaminants) and actionable recommendations for health, wellness, and energy consumption.

Comprehensive Assessment. This study builds on the work done in the detailed assessment option but also includes the planning and execution of recommendations; the creation of an ongoing plan for health, safety and IAQ optimization; an energy analysis; and the identification of future goals related to WELL, LEED or other potential certifications. All costs and operational savings are shown so that building owners can estimate payback.

Custom Assessment: A building owner may opt for a custom assessment to establish a plan based on their unique occupancy requirements and built environment.

ORepSolutions can assist building owners and operators develop the appropriate strategy.