Reviews the scientific literature on indoor air pollution. Low-pollution design and construction techniques employed in the Sunnyhill Low-Pollution Research Centre are outlined in detail and suggestions are made on their applicability to new and existing housing in Canada. The study recommends a four-fold approach to the indoor air pollution problem by government and the building industry: A) short-circuit major potential hazards, B) deal with low-pollution housing needs, C) spread and apply present knowledge, and D)foster more research and discussions on regulation.
The sink or removal rates for two reactive indoor air contaminants (NO2 and SO2) were evaluated in an environmental chamber as a function of material type (painted sheetrock, wallpaper and carpeting), variable surface area of the material, relative humidity and air mixing. Sink rates for SO2 are generally higher than those for NO2. The sink rates for NO2 and SO2 were found to increase with material surface roughness and material surface area. Increases in relative humidity had a pronounced positive impact on SO2 sink rates and a smaller but significant impact on NO2 sink rates.
Pollutants in a substantial number of buildings have now been investigated by public and private agencies. The archive of data on indoor pollutant levels observed in office buildings under conditions of normal operation and occupancy are reviewed using a computer based Building Performance Database. Representative values of 153 pollutants as well as detailed frequency distributions of commonly measured pollutants and of temperature and humidity are presented.
This paper reviews the literature on sources and levels of pollutants in buildings and looks at the possible effects of a reduction in ventilation rates on the health and comfort of building occupants.
Reviews current knowledge about the sources of a number of indoor pollutants and their concentrations: tobacco smoke, NO2, CO, radon, formaldehyde, SO2, CO2, O3, asbestos, mineral fibres, organics and allergens. Lists the adverse health effects from exposure to each of the pollutants. Finds instrumentation for measuring exposure acceptable, but monitoring and knowledge of distribution of sources and concentrations inadequate or marginal. Knowledge of exposure-effects relationship is inadequate, especially with regard to delayed effects of chronic exposures.
Continuous monitoring of NO, NO2, CO, CO2, and O2 depletion was conducted in 14 residences (13 with kerosene space heaters and one without) in two locations in the residence (room with the heater and bedroom) and outdoors. The continuous monitor
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