IAQ is high-profile issue in schools, commercial buildings

Almost every week, we hear or read national or local media reports of students and teachers becoming ill at school. National publications such as Business Week and USA Today have focused on sick building syndrome. Trade publications continuously warn readers about the perils of poor IAQ.

While most of us are aware that outdoor air pollution can seriously damage our health, we are quickly learning that indoor air pollution can have significant health effects as well. Experts say that indoor levels of pollutants may significantly higher than outdoor levels. These levels of indoor air pollutants are particularly concerning, since we generally spend about 90 percent of our time indoors - in schools, offices and our homes.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has said 20 percent of the U.S. population, more than 50 million people, spend their days in our elementary and secondary schools. The health and comfort of students and teachers are among the many factors that contribute to learning, attendance and productivity in the classroom, which in turn affect performance and achievement.

Also, many office buildings also have significant air pollution sources. Some of these buildings may be inadequately ventilated. In fact, mechanical ventilation systems may not be designed or operated to provide adequate amounts of outdoor air.