What does EPA recommend to schools?

EPA’s top 10 recommendations for improving indoor air quality in schools include the following:

1. Implement a comprehensive, district-wide indoor air quality maintenance program consistent with the U.S. EPA’s IAQ TfS Program.  See www.epa.gov/iaq/schools
2. Conduct regular building walkthrough inspections, and measure temperature, relative humidity, carbon monoxide, and carbon dioxide. Following the school walkthrough, identify and prioritize indoor air quality problems in the school.  See www.epa.gov/iaq/schools/actionkit.html#Checklists
3. Ensure that all HVAC system air supply diffusers, return registers, and outside air intakes are clean and unobstructed. Regularly change filters and ensure condensate (or drip) pans are draining properly.
4. In order to flush polluted air out of the school, bring adequate outdoor air into the building using the school ventilation system. Maintain minimum outdoor air ventilation rates consistent with the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) standard 62.1, which for classrooms is about 15 cubic feet per minute (cfm) of outdoor air per person.
5. Maintain indoor humidity levels between 30 percent and 60 percent to ensure comfort and reduce problems with mold and bacteria.  See www.epa.gov/mold
6. Regularly clean and remove dust from hard surfaces with a damp cloth, and vacuum using high-efficiency filters.
7. Follow the U.S. EPA’s guidelines for the prevention and remediation of mold.  See www.epa.gov/mold/mold_remediation.html
8. Promptly fix moisture problems, including those from roof, window, and plumbing leaks. Thoroughly dry wet areas within 24-48 hours to prevent mold growth.  See www.epa.gov/mold/moldguide.html
9. Employ integrated pest management (IPM) methods in your school instead of traditional pesticide-based methods.  See www.epa.gov/iaq/schools/environmental.html#Pests  
10. Use low volatile organic compound (VOC) paints, adhesives, and cleaning products that emit lower levels of gases into the air.  See www.epa.gov/iaq/schools/environmental.html#Chemicals

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