IAQ: Technician Testing and Training

IAQ: Technician Testing and Training

Maintenance and engineering managers seeking to hone the skills of their front-line technicians in diagnosing indoor air quality (IAQ) problems have a host of resources.

For example, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration created its Training Institute that offers technical advice, publications, software, audiovisual aids, and speakers. And the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) offers certification manuals, online testing, and downloadable software for IAQ test-equipment training.

The EPA's training courses cover:

• pollution sources
• evaluating HVAC performance
• observing production processes and work practices
• measuring contamination levels and employee exposure
• medical testing or physical exams
• employee interviews
• reviewing records of medical tests
• job histories, injuries and illnesses
• air-quality control programs.

Managers also can turn to professional resources for assistance with IAQ programs. Structural engineers can evaluate issues with corrosion in building foundations and structural members. Architects can examine water-intrusion problems and design vapor barriers. Mechanical engineers can perform testing and balancing of HVAC and recommend repair or replacement of components. And industrial hygienists can identify contaminants, measure contamination levels, and test for proper air changes.

– Thomas A. Westerkamp