Assessment Protocols

TPG Indoor Air Quality Assessment Protocols include:

• Preliminary Assessment - A preliminary assessment of the building is the next step in investigating the sources of complaints and symptoms. During this process, the investigator will determine the building characteristics, discuss with knowledgeable personnel the operation of the HVAC system, verify information

• Evaluating Cause
• Assessment Protocols
• Remedial Alternatives

• Interviews - An employer or building management interview is needed to gather the following detailed information: the magnitude and distribution of the complaints or illnesses; building design; recent renovation; routine and periodic building maintenance; potential sources of contaminants from equipment in use; diagram, operating specifications and procedures of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems; and smoke policies.
• Sample Collection - During the study, samples should be collected to evaluate potential contaminants including gases, vapors, and particulate. Initial sampling will normally consist of collecting environmental data using grab or screening samples with direct reading equipment or detector tubes. Screening samples for airborne contaminants should be collected for formaldehyde, carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, and VOCs, as appropriate.
• Environmental Evaluation - Based on initial sampling, further investigations (Phase II assessments) may be performed. Further investigation may include sampling for volatile organic compounds (VOCs), specific air contaminants based on the information gathered during the initial assessment or bioaerosols. VOC and specific contaminant sampling can be conducted using standard industrial hygiene sampling procedures such as NIOSH and OSHA.
• Date Interpretation - After collecting the necessary information regarding the status of the indoor air quality in the building in question, it is necessary to interpret the data using published and accepted indoor air quality standards, such as the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) standard 62-1989, “Ventilation for Acceptable Indoor Air Quality” and determine the appropriate remedial actions, if necessary.