University Human Resource Services
Indoor Air Quality
General Requirements
The University Office of Environmental Health and Safety Management (EHS) and the IU Physical Plant each have responsibilities for addressing Indoor Air Quality Issues. The Physical Plant deals with Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) issues:
- Temperature and humidity issues
- Draftiness
- Lack of Air or “stuffiness”
- Dirt or particles coming out of the ventilation system
EHS handles other air quality issues, including
- Unusual odors
- Issues with building occupants having headaches, nausea, drowsiness, or similar common physical discomforts or ailments
Regulations
OSHA and EPA Guidelines
Keys to Compliance for Supervisors
- If air quality issues appear to be related to the HVAC system in the work area, contact the Physical Plant Control Center for service.
- If more than one employee working in the same area suffers the same physical symptoms (other than colds, flu, etc.) contact EHS for an evaluation of the work area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How do I know if “the Building” is causing my employees’ problems?
A. EHS can investigate to determine if there is an obvious physical issue with the building, such as mold, excessive dust, or presence of irritating materials.
Q. When do I call EHS and when do I call Physical Plant.
A. You can call either – each will either respond, or contact the other as appropriate.
Links to written programs, further information
www.ehs.indiana.edu/airquality.shtml
