Environmental Health and Safety conducted indoor air quality investigations of Accounting, the Department of Continuing Learning Network, the Credit Union, Human Resources, and Research and Sponsored Programs. Air quality testing was conducted on various days between December 28, 2004 and February 8, 2005.

The investigation consisted of a visual inspection and walk-through of the aforementioned areas, monitoring for airborne particulates, temperature, and relative humidity and carbon dioxide. Campus Facilities Services also assisted EHS in opening pipe chases and wall units in various locations for visual inspections.

Observations and Conclusions

Accounting

The Accounting Department is located on the 4 th floor, north wing of the Union Building . There are private offices along with a large open room which has been divided into cubicles. Employee complaints consisted mainly of congestion; dry, sore throat; itchy, irritated eyes; sneezing; and runny nose. Common concerns consisted mainly of lack of air circulation within the department and dust in the air. There were a few employees indicating they experience watery or dry eyes. Those employees sit with their backs facing the windows. Their computer screens are facing the window generating glare. The glare on computer screens will cause eyes to become tired quickly which can lead to dry, watery eyes.

It was observed during the visual inspection of the Accounting Department that there is a lot of paper which employees handle frequently. Particle count results did indicate a higher level of particles in the air than in other areas of the building. This may be a result of the increase paper load in this department.

Although there are no regulations dictating temperature requirements, the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) recommend a temperature range of 68-76 ° F for occupant comfort . Temperature readings within the Accounting Department ranged between 74.0 and 76.8 degrees. See table 1 for sample results.

Although there are no regulations dictating humidity requirements, ASHRAE recommended guidelines for relative humidity are between 30-60%. Relative humidity levels in the Accounting Department were between 17.6 and 23.0% which is below recommended guidelines. Low levels of relative humidity are common during winter months when cold outdoor temperatures and heat in the buildings dries out the air. See table 1 for sample results.

Carbon dioxide levels were between 720 and 1200 parts per million (ppm). The outdoor ambient concentration of CO2 is usually 250-350 ppm. A limit of 1000 ppm is considered a surrogate for human comfort by ASHRAE Standard 62.1-2004, Ventilation for Acceptable Indoor Air Quality. Carbon dioxide levels were above acceptable limits in the back part of room 443 at the time of the investigation. There were three employees having a conversation in the room when the air testing occurred. Elevated levels can be expected in small spaces when people are having a conversation. See table 1 for sample results.

Test results for particulate levels above 0.3 microns in size ranged from 1,660,800 to 2,560,200. The particulate levels above 0.5 microns ranged from 199,200 to 333,000. Presently, there are no guidelines or regulations for particulates. However, results can be compared to counts collected outside the building to determine if particle levels are high. Particulate levels above 0.3 microns in size were approximately 3,427,800 particles per cubic foot outside while particulate levels above 0.5 microns were approximately 476,400 particles per cubic foot outside at the time of the survey. See table 1 for sample results.

Department of Community Learning Network

The Department of Community Learning Network (CLN) is located on the 1 st and 2 nd floor, north wing of the Union Building . Employee complaints consisted mainly of congestion; dry, sore throat; itchy, irritated eyes; sneezing; runny nose; and an increase in allergy symptoms since working in the building. Common concerns consisted mainly of lack of air circulation within the department, dust in the air, and musty odors.

The two floors are comprised of individual office space. Each office has its own dedicated wall unit. Offices on the first floor have had the wall units replaced. Carpet had also been removed from the offices on the first floor. Offices on the second floor have the older units. Campus Facilities Services (CFS) is in the process of replacing 5 units per year. Wall units on the second floor were opened for a visual inspection. All units inspected had clean filters and no evidence of mold growth. CFS indicated that the units are on a regular maintenance schedule. Units are inspected and filters are changed every three months. There have been issues with water leaks generating from the wall units and associated piping. The leak runs down pipe chases to the floor below the leaking wall unit. CFS opened chases in rooms 148, 164 and room 254 for a visual observation. Carpets and bases boards were also visually inspected for mold. A minimal amount of isolated mold was observed on the pipe insulation in one of the chases. The offices on the second floor have carpet which is original to the building.

Although there are no regulations dictating temperature requirements, The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) recommend a temperature range of 68-76 ° F for occupant comfort . Temperature readings within the CLN Department ranged between 75.5 and 80.8degrees. See table 1 for sample results.

Although there are no regulations dictating humidity requirements, ASHRAE recommended guidelines for relative humidity are between 30-60%. Humidity test results in the CLN Department were between 27.3 and 31.2% which is within recommended guidelines. See table 1 for sample results.

Test results for carbon dioxide were between 528 and 772 parts per million (ppm). The outdoor ambient concentration of CO2 is usually 250-350 ppm. A limit of 1000 ppm is considered a surrogate for human comfort by ASHRAE Standard 62.1-2004, Ventilation for Acceptable Indoor Air Quality. Carbon dioxide levels were within acceptable limits within the Department. See table 1 for sample results.

Test results for particulate levels above 0.3 microns in size ranged from 685,800 to 1,767,600. The particulate levels above 0.5 microns ranged from 199,200 to 333,000. Presently, there are no guidelines or regulations for particulates. However, results can be compared to counts collected outside the building to determine if particle levels are high. Particulate levels above 0.3 microns in size were approximately 3,427,800 particles per cubic foot outside while particulate levels above 0.5 microns were approximately 476,400 particles per cubic foot outside at the time of the survey. See table 1 for sample results.

Credit Union

The Credit Union is located on the 2 nd floor of the main building. The Credit Union is comprised of an open space with teller windows and offices along the perimeter walls. Employee complaints consisted mainly of congestion; dry, sore throat; and itchy, irritated eyes. Common concerns consisted mainly of noticeable odors and dust in the air.

During the visual inspection a candle was burning at the desk to the left as you first walk into the space. The odor from the candle was evident before you entered the space. There were no noticeable odors identified during the investigation with the exception of the candle. There was a humidifier in operation in the front corner of the room.

Although there are no regulations dictating temperature requirements, The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) recommend a temperature range of 68-76 ° F for occupant comfort . Temperature readings within the Credit Union ranged between 72.5 and 73.4 degrees. See table 1 for sample results.

Although there are no regulations dictating humidity requirements, ASHRAE recommended guidelines for relative humidity are between 30-60%. Humidity test results in the Accounting Department were between 25.0 and 27.5% which is below recommended guidelines. Low levels of relative humidity are common during winter months when cold outdoor temperatures and heat in the buildings dries out the air. See table 1 for sample results.

Test results for carbon dioxide were between 510 and 550 parts per million (ppm). The outdoor ambient concentration of CO2 is usually 250-350 ppm. A limit of 1000 ppm is considered a surrogate for human comfort by ASHRAE Standard 62.1-2004, Ventilation for Acceptable Indoor Air Quality. Carbon dioxide levels were within acceptable levels at the time of the investigation. See table 1 for sample results.

Test results for particulate levels above 0.3 microns in size ranged from 1,852,800 to 1,876,200. The particulate levels above 0.5 microns ranged from 141,000 to 153,600. Presently, there are no guidelines or regulations for particulates. However, results can be compared to counts collected outside the building to determine if particle levels are high. Particulate levels above 0.3 microns in size were approximately 3,427,800 particles per cubic foot outside while particulate levels above 0.5 microns were approximately 476,400 particles per cubic foot outside at the time of the survey. See table 1 for sample results.

Human Resources

The Human Resources Department is located on the 3 rd floor, north wing of the Union Building . The Department is comprised of individual offices. Each office has its own wall unit. The offices are carpeted. Employee complaints consisted mainly of congestion; dry, sore throat; itchy, irritated eyes; sneezing; and runny nose. Common concerns consisted mainly of lack of air circulation within the department, dust in the air, and musty odors.

Wall units were opened for a visual inspection. All units inspected had clean filters and no evidence of mold growth. CFS indicated that the units are on a regular maintenance schedule. Units are inspected and filters are changed every three months. There was no evidence of mold found during the investigation of the department.

Although there are no regulations dictating temperature requirements, The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) recommend a temperature range of 68-76 ° F for occupant comfort . Temperature readings within the Human Resources Department ranged between 70.0 and 76.0 degrees. See table 1 for sample results.

Although there are no regulations dictating humidity requirements, ASHRAE recommended guidelines for relative humidity are between 30-60%. Test results in the Human Resources Department were between 18.0 and 31.1% which is below recommended guidelines. Low levels of relative humidity are common during winter months when cold outdoor temperatures and heat in the buildings dries out the air. See table 1 for sample results.

Test results for carbon dioxide were between 442 and 900 parts per million (ppm). The outdoor ambient concentration of CO2 is usually 250-350 ppm. A limit of 1000 ppm is considered a surrogate for human comfort by ASHRAE Standard 62.1-2004, Ventilation for Acceptable Indoor Air Quality. Carbon dioxide levels were within acceptable limits at the time of the investigation. See table 1 for sample results.

Test results for particulate levels above 0.3 microns in size ranged from 1,437,600 to 1,713,600. The particulate levels above 0.5 microns ranged from 181,800 to 215,400. Presently, there are no guidelines or regulations for particulates. However, results can be compared to counts collected outside the building to determine if particle levels are high. Particulate levels above 0.3 microns in size were approximately 3,427,800 particles per cubic foot outside while particulate levels above 0.5 microns were approximately 476,400 particles per cubic foot outside at the time of the survey. See table 1 for sample results.

Research and Sponsored Programs

Research and Sponsored Programs is located on the 6 th floor, north wing of the Union Building . The floor is comprised of individual offices and a large open space, room 631. Room 631 is divided into cubicles on the east side of the building and takes up a majority of the floor. Employee complaints consisted mainly of congestion; dry, sore throat; itchy, watery, irritated eyes; and runny nose. Common concerns consisted mainly of lack of air circulation within the department, dust in the air, and noticeable odors. The odors described were of sewage, food or a musty smell.

Employees in room 631 indicated that the north end of the space is generally cold and lack of air movement. CFS indicated that they moved a thermostat from the south end of the room to the middle of the room to accommodate the entire space. It was observed during the visual inspection of room 631 that there is an enormous amount of paper which employees handle frequently.

An interview with employees indicated that offices on the west side of the floor experience water leakage around the windows every time it rains. Water sometimes gets trapped behind the vinyl wallpaper and forms pockets of water behind the paper. Employees then push the water out. Employees indicated that when the offices have been closed over night or over a weekend there is a noticeable musty odor present. A visual inspection reveled that there is evidence of mold behind vinyl wallpaper in rooms 624, 626, 628, and 632.

Room 618 has experienced problems with water leaking from the space above the office. At the time of the investigation there where ceiling tile that had signs of water damage. One tile was still wet. Employees indicated that the source of the water leak was from the HVAC unit above the space.

Odor complaints were investigated and determined to be coming from the cafeteria that is located on the second floor of the main building. Environmental Health and Safety along with CFS determined that the exhaust from the cafeteria travels in a duct behind the elevator shaft up to a roof exhaust. An inspection of the elevator shaft revealed that the ductwork is behind a cinderblock wall. There are openings in the wall which it is believed the odors are escaping from. The elevator shafts acts as a wind tunnel and as the elevator moves from floor to floor it pushes air through the shaft and out into the floors.

Although there are no regulations dictating temperature requirements, The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) recommend a temperature range of 68-76 ° F for occupant comfort . Temperature readings within Research and Sponsored Programs ranged between 71.9 and 76.8 degrees. See table 1 for sample results.

Although there are no regulations dictating humidity requirements, ASHRAE recommended guidelines for relative humidity are between 30-60%. Test results in Research and Sponsored Programs were between 28.9 and 35.5%. Low levels of relative humidity are common during winter months when cold outdoor temperatures and heat in the buildings dries out the air. See table 1 for sample results.

Test results for carbon dioxide were between 442 and 900 parts per million (ppm). The outdoor ambient concentration of CO2 is usually 250-350 ppm. A limit of 1000 ppm is considered a surrogate for human comfort by ASHRAE Standard 62.1-2004, Ventilation for Acceptable Indoor Air Quality. Carbon dioxide levels were within acceptable limits at the time of the investigation. See table 1 for sample results.

Test results for particulate levels above 0.3 microns in size ranged from 1,186,200 to 1,234,800. The particulate levels above 0.5 microns ranged from 101,400 to 140,400. Presently, there are no guidelines or regulations for particulates. However, results can be compared to counts collected outside the building to determine if particle levels are high. Particulate levels above 0.3 microns in size were approximately 3,427,800 particles per cubic foot outside while particulate levels above 0.5 microns were approximately 476,400 particles per cubic foot outside at the time of the survey. See table 1 for sample results.

Sampling Methodology

Indoor air parameter measurements for temperature, relative humidity, and carbon dioxide were collected using a Quest Indoor Air Quality Monitor. Particulate measurements were collected using a MET ONE laser particle counter. Volatile organic compounds were monitored using a RAE Systems handheld PID monitor in parts per billion (ppb).

Sample Results

Table 1 lists the monitoring results for carbon dioxide, temperature, relative humidity, respirable particulates and volatile organic compounds.

Toxicity Data

Each of the following contaminants was chosen for monitoring purposes due to their nature of being common attributing factors in IAQ issues. Each contaminant has differing toxicity data including each contaminants route of entry, signs and symptoms of overexposure, and common sources and/or generators.

Carbon Dioxide – Carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) is a colorless, odorless gas formed by metabolic activity . Humans and other animals exhale carbon dioxide when they breathe. Carbon Dioxide primarily enters the body through inhalation. Carbon Dioxide is a simple asphyxiant. Exposure to high concentrations may produce shortness of breath, headaches, possible unconsciousness and death from oxygen deficiency.

Carbon dioxide is used as an indicator of ventilation adequacy. Normal outdoor carbon dioxide concentrations typically are 250-350 parts per million (ppm). The American Society of Heating, Refrigeration, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) recommend that carbon dioxide levels be maintained below 1000ppm within office environments to minimize air quality complaints. Carbon dioxide concentrations above 1000 parts per million (ppm) in air may be an indication of inadequate ventilation into the space.

Temperature – The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) recommends a temperature range of 68-76 ° F for occupant comfort.

Humidity - The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) recommends an acceptable humidity range of 30% - 60%. Low humidity levels can cause chapped skin, dry eyes, nose, throat, and upper respiratory system. Dry air can make you susceptible to illness and the common cold. High humidity levels can encourage the growth of biological organisms.

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC's) - VOC's enter the body through inhalation. Sources which generate VOC's include paints, cleaning compounds, aerosol propellants, adhesives, floor coverings, textiles, construction materials, photocopiers, insecticides, herbicides, combustion products, asphalts, gasoline vapors, tobacco smoke, dried out floor drains, cosmetics and other personal products. Acute or short-term exposure to VOC's can cause nausea; dizziness; eye, respiratory track and mucous membrane irritation; headache; and fatigue.

Respirable Dust (0.3 and 0.5 micron particulate) – The route of entry for respirable dust is through inhalation. Respirable particles consist of dust particles smaller than approximately 10µm (micrometers). Respirable dust particulates are deposited and retained within in the lung. Lung diseases are caused by the body's reaction to an accumulation of dust in the lungs. These diseases include fibrosis (scar tissue formation), bronchitis (the overproduction of mucus) and asthma (the constriction of the bronchial tubes).

Recommendations

Based on the visual inspection and interview with employees, Environmental Health and Safety has the following recommendations;

Levels of humidity throughout the departments surveyed were below comfortable levels. This is to be expected in the winter when the cold temperatures and heat in the buildings dries out the air. Low levels of humidity will cause dry and itchy eyes, dry nose and throat and may contribute to an increase in colds and respiratory illnesses. Due to the age of the building and current configuration of the air handling units, it is not possible to add humidification to the HVAC systems that serve the central area of the Union Building . Individual units are another option but are not recommended unless necessary for specific health issue of individuals. Individual units, if not used and maintained correctly, can harbor microbial growth and present additional health problems. Individual units would be the responsibility of the department and must be maintained according to the manufactures recommendations. . If the Department deems humidity issues as important, they should contact EHS for guidance on purchasing individual humidifying units.

There have been issues with water leaks generating from the wall units and associated piping. The leak runs down pipe chases to the floor below the leaking wall unit. Pipe chases in three locations were opened for a visual observation to determine the presence of mold. One of the three locations did have a minimal amount of mold on the pipe insulation. It is not believe that there would be a health risk to individuals based on the amount present and due to the fact that the chases are sealed. It is believed that the presence of mold on the pipe insulation is an isolated incident. If Departments are concerned about specific rooms, arrangements can be made through CFS for additional investigation.

Several areas experienced elevated levels of particulates in the air. People with existing respiratory problems may experience increased health problems when particle levels are high. Some workplace activities increase the particles in the air. High efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters can be a means for reducing the number of particles in the air. This may provide some relief for those individuals with diagnosed asthma or respiratory illness. EHS has a free standing HEPA air cleaner that can be loaned to departments to see if its use makes a significant improvement in the air quality. The department can decide if they want to purchase a unit based on the trial use the filter. EHS can advise on the purchase of the units, but the individual department or individual is responsible for the purchase and maintenance of the units. Any department considering the purchase of the unit should have the individuals experiencing the health problems schedule an appointment with Dr. Steve Wintermeyer of Occupational Health.

Accounting

•  Install glare screens on computer monitors that face the windows or move computer monitors to a location that is not facing the window;

•  High efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters can be a means for reducing the number of particles in the air. This may provide some relief for those individuals with diagnosed asthma or respiratory illness; and

•  Decrease the carbon dioxide concentration in room 443 by introducing additional fresh air by opening a window or running a fan.

Department of Community Learning Network

•  High efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters can be a means for reducing the number of particles in the air. This may provide some relief for those individuals with diagnosed asthma or respiratory illness; and

•  Maintain temperatures between 68 and 76 degrees by opening windows or turning off wall units.

Credit Union

•  Discontinue the burning of candles; and

•  High efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters can be a means for reducing the number of particles in the air. This may provide some relief for those individuals with diagnosed asthma or respiratory illness.

Human Resources

• High efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters can be a means for reducing the number of particles in the air. This may provide some relief for those individuals with diagnosed asthma or respiratory illness.

Research and Sponsored Programs

•  High efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters can be a means for reducing the number of particles in the air. This may provide some relief for those individuals with diagnosed asthma or respiratory illness; 

Campus Facilities Services (CFS)

•  Repair leaks around windows on the 6 th floor, west side;

•  Contaminated wall paper on the 6 th floor, west side needs to be removed by EHS;

•  Repair water leak above room 618;

•  Close penetrations in the elevator shaft to prevent the migration of kitchen odors into occupied space;

•  Remove and replace the fiberglass pipe insulation in the chase in room 148;

•  Replace damaged ceiling tile in room 618;

•  Review location of thermostat in room 631 with Engineering to ensure proper temperature control and air flow is occurring; and

•  Verify operation of units in 443 to ensure that proper outdoor air is being introduced into this space.