Is indoor air quality (IAQ) a new occupational health and safety concern?
It is relatively new, but more than 20 years old! In 1976, industrial hygienists started investigation IAQ problems. Since then the concern persists and continues to increase. The origin of IAQ problems is primarily related to energy conservation activities. Causes of IAQ problems include: • Construction of airtight buildings which reduce energy consumptions by heating and cooling systems • Reduced intake of outside air • Construction materials, glues, fiberglass, particleboards, etc.
