Indoor air quality (IAQ) refers to the air quality within and around buildings and structures, especially as it relates to the health and comfort of building occupants. Indoor air quality problems can arise when there is an inadequate amount of clean, filtered outdoor air to dilute the amount air contaminants present in that space. Sources of air contaminants are most often biological (e.g., mold, dust mites and other allergens) or chemical (e.g., formaldehyde, carbon monoxide) in nature and can originate either inside or outside a building. Physical factors such as temperature and relative humidity also contribute to perceptions of air quality.
If you have questions or concerns related to indoor air quality: Notify your supervisor and report concerns to UVA Facilities Management (FM) 434-924-1777 (Academic) or 434-924-2267 (Health System). If FM personnel are unable to address the identified concern(s), they will recommend that you contact EHS to initiate an indoor air quality (IAQ) investigation. EHS staff will conduct a walk-through survey of the area, interview occupants, and consult with FM as needed regarding the status of the HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) system. Air sampling is rarely necessary, as adjustments to the HVAC system and/or modifications to housekeeping practices usually serve to resolve reported air quality concerns.
In the event of an unexpectedly strong and/or unusual odor: The source of the odor should be identified as soon as possible.
If you believe that the smell or event that you are experiencing may be related to a gas leak or fire in the building (you smell gas or see smoke) call 911 and immediately activate the building fire alarm.
Otherwise, inquire with other room or building occupants about potential activities or equipment that could be the source of the odor. "Sewer-like" odors are often the result of dry sink traps (sink drains where the u-shaped traps to hold water have gone dry) and can be prevented/resolved by occasionally running water down the drain. "Diesel-like" odors are often the result of an idling vehicle stationed near a building air intake location or may result from activation of a nearby diesel-powered generator.
Contact EHS for assistance in determining the source of unusual building odors. You may be instructed to record your experiences using a Workplace IAQ Log for review by EHS industrial hygiene staff.
Additional IAQ Resources: