Publications

The IAQ Tools for Schools Fact Sheet offers a brief overview of the concerns related to poor IAQ in schools and how the IAQ Tools for Schools guidance and resources can help schools take action to create healthy indoor environments.

• PDF Version (1 page, 108 K, about PDF)

The Framework for Effective School IAQ Management provides a common language to describe the drivers of IAQ program success; detailed guidance on the proven strategies, organizational approaches and leadership styles that are fundamental to program success; and a clear vision of the pathway to IAQ excellence in schools. Use the Framework to launch, sustain or reinvigorate an effective IAQ management program.

• PDF Version (3pp., 498 K)

The IAQ Tools for Schools Action Kit shows schools how to carry out a practical plan of action to improve indoor air problems at little or no cost using straightforward activities and in-house staff. The Action Kit provides best practices, industry guidelines, sample policies and a sample IAQ management plan.

• Learn more about the Action Kit and and download the contents (HTML)
• [EPA 402-K-07-008] (hard copy)
• [EPA 402-C-05-001] (CD-ROM)

The DVD includes: "Taking Action," which shows how one school successfully implemented the IAQ Tools for Schools Action Kit; "Ventilation Basics," which explains the importance of good IAQ and shows how to operate and maintain school ventilation systems; and "Walkthrough: Four Schools Making a Difference," which illustrates the school walkthrough.

• Video Collection DVD [EPA 402-V-08-001]
• Watch "Taking Action" online [EPA 402-E-04-002]

This full-color brochure describes the many benefits of using the IAQ Tools for Schools program.

• PDF Version (20 pp., 1.8 M)
• [EPA-402-K-02-005]

This colorful tri-fold brochure includes insert cards with guidance and action items for facility managers, teachers, administrators and health professionals on how to improve IAQ in schools.

• HTML Version (includes PDF versions of the four insert cards)
• [EPA 402-F-05-016]

The Problem Solving Wheel is an interactive, user-friendly tool to help school staff identify IAQ emergencies and to respond appropriately. This resource helps school staff understand the symptoms of health problems caused by poor IAQ and common IAQ issues in schools and how to address them. The Problem Solving Wheel is included in the IAQ Tools for Schools Action Kit and is available for order separately.

• [EPA 402-K-05-001A]

This fact sheet provides an overview of the IAQ Design Tools for Schools website. EPA created the website for school staff, architects, engineers and consultants responsible for school planning, design, construction, renovation, and operations and maintenance. The resources on the website offer valuable information on the factors that affect the quality of the indoor environment and provide guidance on how to ensure good IAQ during school construction and renovation projects.

• PDF Version (1 page, 311 K)
• Visit the IAQ Design Tools for Schools website
• [EPA 402-F-03-012]

This fact sheet explains how good IAQ in schools is a critical component of a healthy and comfortable learning environment. IAQ affects the health, productivity, performance, and comfort of students, teachers and staff. Several problems can lead to poor IAQ and trigger health problems like asthma and allergies.

• Learn more about the research that links key environmental factors to health outcomes and students' ability to perform.
• Key Findings (PDF) (2 pp., 196 K)

This guide offers valuable information for all school employees, especially school nurses, teachers and maintenance staff, on how to identify and control environmental triggers commonly found in schools.

• HTML Version | PDF Version (16 pp., 977 K)
• www.epa.gov/asthma
• [EPA 402-K-10-004]

This brochure offers tips and helpful pictures on how to manage asthma by developing a plan and following simple steps to minimize exposure to asthma triggers found indoors and out.

• PDF Version (36 pp., 1.05 M)
• [EPA 402-F-04-021]

Ayude a su niño a controlar el asma

• Disponible en Inglés y Español (PDF) (36 pp., 437 K)
• [EPA 402-F-05-021]

The Mold in Schools Fact Sheet provides a summary of information about mold growth in school buildings and portable classrooms. There are growing concerns regarding mold as the public becomes more aware that exposure to mold can cause a variety of health problems, including allergic reactions.

• PDF Version (2 pp., 131 K)

This document on remediating and cleaning up mold and moisture in schools and commercial buildings is designed to protect the health of building occupants. It serves as a reference guide for building managers, custodians and others who are responsible for commercial building and school maintenance.

• HTML Version | PDF Version (54 pp., 4.8 M)
• [EPA 402-K-01-001]

Access other mold-related publications at http://www.epa.gov/mold/publications.html

As part of an effective IAQ management program, schools should test for radon to know if radon levels are elevated, and if so, reduce risks to occupants through radon mitigation. Many schools have successfully applied radon mitigation strategies to control indoor radon levels.

• Download Managing Radon in Schools (PDF) (3 pp., 391 K)
• [EPA 402-F-10-001]

Access other radon-related publications at http://www.epa.gov/radon/pubs/index.html