The Basics on School Ventilation
According to OSHA Indoor air quality (IAQ) is a concern in many schools due in part to the age and poor condition of a number of school buildings. School IAQ is particularly important as it may affect the health, performance and comfort of school staff and students. Managing IAQ in schools presents unique challenges.
EPA says good IAQ contributes to a favorable environment for students, performance of teachers and staff, and a sense of comfort, health and well-being. These elements combine to assist a school in its core mission — educating children. Maintenance of acceptable temperature and relative humidity.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA):
- Creating Healthy Indoor Environments in Schools
- IAQ Tools for Schools Action Kit. Includes many guidance documents, including ones about inspections, maintenance, ventilation, renovation.
- School Advanced Ventilation Engineering Software (SAVES). Free software package for architects, engineers, and school officials to determine what type of ventilation equipment is best for both health and energy efficiency; the software also has financial assessment and indoor humidity modules.
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH):
Other Resources:
- The American Federation of Teachers has a number of Fact Sheets on health and safety issues, including What You Should Know About Indoor Air Quality.
- School Indoor Air Quality Best Management Practices Manual. Washington State Department of Health, (November 2003).
- The New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services (NJDHSS) provides useful information for school staff, school administrators, architects and engineers and parents.
