The American Institute of
Architects and U.S. Green Building Council are among five organizations
partnering with the EPA to develop “improved indoor air quality” standards for
builders and designers. The effort, which includes an educational course and
guidebook, is designed to “assist building professionals in implementing
high-performance designs and IAQ performance in a broad range of buildings.”
The project is expected to be completed in mid-2009.
According
to Andrew Persily, chair of the steering committee overseeing the project, the
partnership is aimed at encouraging the A+D community to create buildings that
exceed IAQ standards. “The book and course will give guidance to designers and
builders, so that buildings may be constructed, operated and maintained to
improve IAQ without constraining the building function or the comfort and
productivity of the occupants,” he said.
Flooring adhesives together
with cleaning agents and sealers with little or no VOCs (volatile organic
compounds) are among the materials that contribute to better indoor air
quality. Representatives from other segments of the construction industry are
also participating in the project, including the American Society of Heating,
Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers; the Building Owners and Managers
Association; and the Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors’ National
Association.