Indoor air quality in high-performing building case studies: Got data?

Abstract

This article is a review of how indoor air quality has been addressed in case studies of high-performing buildings, specifically the case studies described in ASHRAE's High Performing Buildings magazine. Nearly all of the reported case studies address energy performance, both in the design and operation of the building. In contrast, while most case studies mention indoor air quality design considerations, they generally do not address indoor air quality in a comprehensive manner, nor do they present the impacts of indoor air quality-related and other design considerations on indoor concentrations or on the health, comfort, and productivity of building occupants. Based upon this analysis, as well as existing standards and guidelines, a discussion is provided about what indoor air quality information should be collected during the early stages of a building's operation to demonstrate its indoor air quality performance. This information includes (a) documentation of key indoor air quality-related design features and their implementation during building construction, commissioning, and initial operation; (b) collection of indoor air quality performance data, including measured pollutant concentrations and ventilation rates; and (c) assessment of occupant satisfaction using occupant surveys. To facilitate comparisons of indoor air quality performance among buildings, suggestions are provided on how to collect and report this information in a consistent manner.