Indoor Air Quality - Tools for Schools Action Kit for Canadian Schools

Disclaimer

Any information gathered as a result of using this Kit is for the benefit and use of Canadian schools. Federal, Provincial, territorial and municipal regulations and guidelines should be respected when implementing this kit, including local fire regulations, building codes and occupational health and safety codes Information provided is based upon current scientific and technical understanding of the issues presented. Following the advice given will not necessarily provide complete protection in all situations or against all health hazards that may be caused by indoor air pollution. The tasks identified within each checklist should be carried out by/or with the assistance of trained professional in that field.

Mention of any trade names or commercial products does not constitute endorsement or recommendation for use.

As you prepare to use the IAQ Action Kit, please note:

1. The guidance in this kit is not intended as a substitute for appropriate emergency action in the event of a hazardous situation that may be an immediate threat to life and safety.
2. The modification of building functions, equipment, or structures to remedy air quality complaints may create other indoor air quality problems, or negatively affect safety systems and energy use. A thorough understanding of all the factors that interact to create indoor air quality problems can help to avoid this undesirable outcome. Consult with professionals if it becomes necessary. In the event that medical records are used while evaluating an IAQ problem, confidentiality must be maintained.
3. Although the focus of this kit is the school environment, many school occupants spend a proportionately larger amount of time in the home and other places. Individuals should be informed of the potential impact of other environments, especially the home, on their overall health and well-being. Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) offers many useful publications and information materials related to IAQ in the home.

Reproduction

This kit was developed by drawing extensively on the U.S. EPA IAQ Tools for Schools Action Kit and the expertise it contains. The kit may be reproduced in whole or in part by an individual or organization without permission.

If it is reproduced, Health Canada would appreciate knowing how it is used. Please write to:

• Health Canada
  Healthy Environments and Consumer Safety Branch
  Indoor Environments Division
  Room 120
  Environmental Health Centre (P.L. 0801D)
  Tunney's Pasture
  Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0L2