From Wikipedia,
the free encyclopedia.
- For FAQs written about
fake video games also
abbreviated as "IAQ," see
Infrequently Asked Questions.
Indoor Air Quality (IAQ)
deals with the health and comfort
of the air inside buildings. The
IAQ may be compromised by
microbial contaminants (mold,
bacteria), chemicals,
allergens, or any mass or
energy stressor that can affect
the heath of people or animals.
Often the perception is that
outdoor air is polluted, but
indoor air is acceptable. Many
studies and experience show that
this isn't always the case.
The topic of IAQ has become
popular due to the greater
awareness of health problems
caused by mold and triggers to
asthma and allergies. Awareness
has also been increased by the
involvement of the
Environmental Protection Agency.
They have developed an "IAQ Tools
for Schools" program to help
improve the indoor environmental
conditions in educational
institutions (see external link
below).
The problems stemming from poor
indoor air quality has created an
industry of consultants
specializing in diagnosing,
remediating and preventing IAQ
complaints. Professionals are
often trained or certified by
organizations such as the American
Industrial Hygiene Association,
American Indoor Air Quality
Council,
Indoor Environmental Institute,
Indoor Air Quality Association,
and the Indoor Environmental
Standards Organization. These
consultants perform an IAQ
property assessment that may
include taking measurements and
samples of the air or surfaces
inside the building.
Instrumentation should be
calibrated and samples should be
sent to an independent, accredited
laboratory. AIHA and A2LA both
offer laboratory accreditation
programs that relate to indoor air
quality.
