The University of British Columbia
OP-3: Indoor Air Quality

To ensure indoor air quality is safe and optimal, UBC takes a preventative, risk-management approach that includes: • Collecting information • Educating staff • Providing effective risk communication • Investigating facilities To ensure indoor air quality concerns are addressed, Risk Management Services has developed recommendations for occupants, departments and facility managers to assist in ensuring indoor air quality issues are resolved and the buildings meet provincial regulations and federal guidelines. IAQ assessments are performed by Risk Management Services staff on an as needed basis. A typical indoor air investigation will include a review of several items: • a visual inspection and a plan review of the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system • observations of conditions in the area of concern • interviews with individuals experiencing problems • measurement of ventilation and comfort parameters (carbon dioxide, temperature, humidity); and • a general walk through evaluation of the building noting specifically: water damaged ceiling, wall, floor materials; dust streaking near air vents and diffusers; mold growth on building components; apparent building use changes; the presence of odors; condition and utility of outside air dampers; condition of the air filtration system.