Department of Environmental Health - Indoor Air Quality - IAQ
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Gerald Lamping Director: Indoor Air Quality
Phone 657-8623
GLAMPI@NEISD.NET
Larry Fowler
IAQ Coordinator
Phone 657-8623
LFOWLE@NEISD.NET
Diane Rhodes
Director: Asthma Education
Phone 657-8623
drhode@Neisd.net
Kathy HardinAdministrative Assistant
Phone 657-8623
KHARDI1@NEISD.NET
Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) Voluntary Guidelines for Schools and Classroom Activities
By Jerry Lamping, Assistant Director glampi@neisd.net
North East ISD has implemented an Indoor Air Quality Testing Program to measure acceptable classroom environments throughout the District. The IAQ Testing Program supports the voluntary guidelines that are published by the Texas Department of Health (TDH) and the recommendations that have been offered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). IAQ issues regarding design, construction, renovation maintenance and operation of schools are included in TDH guidelines. A detailed approach for conducting IAQ investigations has been developed and will be used whenever concerns about airborne contaminants are expressed by building occupants.
One section of the TDH voluntary IAQ Guidelines covers the responsibilities of the building occupants for maintaining acceptable indoor air quality during school activities. Fourteen (14) specific recommendations are given that address the IAQ issues directly related to the classroom occupants and their classroom activities. The following recommendations are from the voluntary guidelines and are presented to inform everyone about what they can do to prevent indoor air contamination.
Recommended School Building Occupant Responsibilities1
Cleanliness of the Classroom
Classrooms and teaching supplies should be kept clean and orderly to prevent contamination of indoor air. Classrooms and teaching supplies should be kept clean and orderly to prevent conditions conducive to insect and rodent infestations.
Product Usage in the Classroom
Products such as pesticides, air fresheners, scented products and other materials that may be a health concern should not be used.
Classroom Activities and Projects
Use the least toxic instructional materials (markers, glue, art supplies, etc.) that will serve the intended purpose. When classroom activities or projects generate air pollutants, steps should be taken to minimize impact such as using local exhaust fans or opening windows.
HVAC Diffusers and Return Air Grilles in the Classroom
Supply air diffusers and return air grilles must be kept free and clear of any obstructions.
Accidental Spills
Spills should be cleaned up promptly and properly. Spills of hazardous chemicals and substances must be disposed of in accordance with applicable State and Federal laws.
Maintenance of Classroom Pets
Classroom pets should not be kept in the classroom to prevent IAQ problems.
Needs of Sensitive Individuals
Carefully consider and, to the extent feasible, accommodate the needs of sensitive individuals by doing the following:
Consulting with school health officials, parents, and students regarding student allergies and chemical intolerances
Locating sensitive individuals away from potential sources of symptom-triggering substances and activities
Discouraging the use of scented personal care products or other scented products that may cause adverse reaction in sensitive individuals
Food Storage in the Classroom
Food should be stored in airtight containers and refrigerated if necessary.
Garbage Containers in the Classroom
Waste containers should be store properly, emptied regularly and located away from air intakes or other sensitive areas.
Smoking on School Property
Smoking tobacco is prohibited in public schools under the Texas Penal Code.
Use of Portable Air Cleaning Devices
Portable air cleaning devices may help in cleaning a small area but they must be properly maintained to be beneficial.
Use of Ozone-generating Devices
Ozone-generating devices should not be used in occupied spaces in schools. Additionally, there should be no gases present in the air that could react with ozone to produce toxic products. Ozone is a lung irritant.
Reporting of IAQ Concerns
Promptly report IAQ concerns to the building administrator for investigation and possible referral to the Department of Safe and Healthy Schools.
Medical Care for Serious Health Problems
Any school building occupant that is experiencing chronic or serious health problems is encouraged to seek appropriate medical care and to work with medical professionals in management of any illness.