Children cannot
perform at their best if they are ill or absent from school. Poor indoor air quality
can result in illnesses requiring absence from school. Research has also shown that
poor indoor air quality in the school negatively impacts student performance even
when they remain in school. Because of this, school districts need to work hard to identify and eliminate any potential sources of indoor pollution. To make this
process simpler, EPA has developed a program called IAQ Tools for Schools. The program
is voluntary for all school districts and includes guidance for schools to assess
their own indoor air quality. IAQ Tools for Schools kits may be obtained from the
EPA or your local health department at no cost to schools and school districts.
The IAQ Tools for Schools Kit is designed to be a no cost or low cost approach to
improving indoor air quality. The goal of the program is to provide schools with
clear and easily applied guidance so that they can take a proactive approach to
indoor air quality in their buildings.
Why implement the program in your school? The expense and effort required to prevent most IAQ problems is much less than the expense and effort to resolve problems after
they develop. This program educates the schools on potential sources of indoor air
quality problems. Through this education many problems can be prevented, and when
problems do arise, they can be corrected or resolved quickly. In addition to quick
resolution, the school is now an informed consumer and can make educated decisions
when selecting outside companies for assistance.
What are some consequences of non-response to IAQ problems?
- Increased health problems/complaints
- Aggravated asthma
- Unfavorable learning environment
- Reduced productivity
- Reduced equipment efficiency
- Strained relationships (school-parent)
- Negative publicity
- Liability issues
What’s involved?
- Creating the team
- Understanding the potential sources
- Performing the walk-thru
- Identifying the potential problems
- Organizing/creating a plan of action
- Implementing new ideas
- Continued monitoring of school
Links to more information:
Tools for Schools
“Managing Asthma in Schools”
Schools, IAQ, and Health