The link between indoor air quality (IAQ) and maintenance practices was investigated using a series of site visits, a survey, and a literature search. The surveys focused on the specific measurements being taken by building operation and maintenance (O&M) personnel that gauge the level of IAQ. Also requested was information pertaining to specific occupant problems, both IAQ related and those resulting from other causes (poor employee-employer relationships).

While limited in its nature (only 96 office buildings surveyed), the results of this project document a statistically significant trend between a building's IAQ and its level of maintenance. Specifically, as the level of system maintenance is increased (both depth and frequency), the IAQ level increases. The importance of this finding is that additional efforts need to be made in the proper development of O&M programs to focus on its impact, either good or bad, on the building's IAQ.

Authors: Chad B. Dorgan, P.E., Charles E. Dorgan, Ph.D., P.E., Robert J. Linder
Citation: IAQ and Energy 98 Using ASHRAE Standards 62 and 90.1 Conference Papers
Keywords: October, Louisiana, 1998