IEQ R9: Indoor Air Flush-out Prior to Occupancy

Requirement

PURPOSE

Minimize the building occupant’s exposure to indoor air contaminants inadvertently introduced during the construction phase.

CRITERIA

Despite attempts to reduce the amount of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), flame retardants and other chemicals in applied products during construction, it is typical for building materials and furniture to off-gas during the first 14-90 days after construction. In addition, a considerable amount of particulate matter can remain in the air following construction.

Upon substantial completion of construction (after all sanding, finishing, carpet and furniture installation activities are complete) run HVAC system at maximum outside air ( OA dampers open fully) 24 hours a day for 2 weeks to flush the building of particulates and chemical off-gassing. All interior doors to regularly occupied spaces must be opened for the duration of the flush-out. Building move-in and occupancy can take place during the flush-out, in order to meet project schedule requirements.

Note: If a test and balance is done prior to procedure, ensure that the correct outside air damper positions are clearly labeled to denote design airflow rates so that dampers can be returned to design outdoor air positions after flush-out procedure is completed.

Perform the building flush-out using one or both of the following procedures: 

• Flush-out with HVAC Equipment 
• Install a minimum of MERV 8 filtration on all air handlers prior to and replace ALL filters with clean filtration media of MERV 8 or higher immediately after flush-out 
• Ensure all outside dampers are 100% open 
• Set fan to “on” (not automatic) to ensure air handler is running continuously 
• Run for 24 hours a day for 14 consecutive days 
• Reset outside air damper position to design air flow rate

VERIFICATION 

• Construction Documents include narrative detailing Indoor Air Flush-Out procedures 
• Photo documentation of filter installation and replacement, dampers, and HVAC controls setting

RESOURCES

Well Certified Air Flush http://standard.wellcertified.com/air/air-flush

ASHRAE IAQ http://iaq.ashrae.org/

EPA IAQ https://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq/office-building-occupants-guide-indoor-air-quality