Environmental Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
schools and other nonresidential buildings prior to 1980. Increasingly, in new
buildings, floor coverings are glued-down industrial-grade carpeting. Emis-
sions from carpeting and associated adhesives have been the subject of IAQ
complaints in a number of buildings. As in residences, carpeting in non-
residential, nonindustrial buildings becomes a sink for a wide variety of
organic particles.
4.
Ceilings
Ceilings of many nonresidential buildings serve several functions. They need
to provide an aesthetically acceptable appearance and, in many cases, a cavity
through which utilities such as wiring, plumbing, and mechanical systems
are extended. These cavities often serve as plenums through which return
air is conveyed to air-handling units (AHUs) to be reconditioned. Suspended
ceiling tile commonly serves as the plenum base. In other cases, decorative
acoustical plaster may be sprayed on ceiling surfaces. Prior to 1978, acoustical
plaster containing upwards of 10% chrysotile asbestos was commonly used
in foyers and hallways in schools, auditoria, and other buildings.
5.
Roofs
Roofs of a large percentage of nonresidential buildings are flat. A flat roof
is considered more aesthetically pleasing by architects and serves as a plat-
form for heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system AHUs,
exhaust vents, etc. Flat roofs require design and construction care to assure
proper drainage of rain and snow melt, and maintenance to prevent water
intrusion into building interiors. Flat roofs are often plagued by water leaks
that damage ceiling tiles and other interior materials. Such water intrusion
is a common problem in school buildings. Because HVAC system AHUs as
well as exhaust vents are often located on flat roofs, re-entry of flue and
other exhaust gases is also a common problem.
6.
Furnishings/equipment
Nonresidential buildings are provided with a variety of furnishings, e.g.,
chairs, desks, storage cabinets, office dividers, etc. These furnishings can
emit a variety of VOCs and SVOCs which contaminate indoor spaces. Steel
desks and storage cabinets have low emissions. Wooden desks, storage cab-
inets, counter tops, and office dividers may be constructed from HCHO-
emitting pressed-wood products, and thus serve as a source of HCHO and
potential irritant effects.
Nonresidential buildings also contain a variety of equipment types
including computers, printers, photocopying machines, etc. Such equipment
can be a source of indoor contaminants (see Chapter 7).
7.
Heating, cooling, and ventilation systems
Nonresidential, nonindustrial buildings vary considerably in how they are
climate-controlled and ventilated. Climate control in seasonally colder cli-
