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Publications about Indoor Air Quality in Schools

Indoor Air Quality Management

Cover to the IAQ tools for schools factsheet

Indoor Air Quality Tools for Schools Overview
This fact sheet offers a brief overview of the concerns related to poor IAQ in schools and how the IAQ Tools for Schools guidance, resources and access to the National Schools Network can help districts take action to create healthy indoor environments.

Cover to the framework for effective school iaq management

IAQ Tools for Schools Framework for Effective School IAQ Management
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.

Photo of the iaq tools for schools kit

IAQ Tools for Schools Action Kit
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.

Photo of the video collection DVD

Video Collection DVD
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, order EPA 402-V-08-001
  • Watch "Taking Action" online order EPA 402-E-04-002
A photo of the problem solving wheel

Indoor Air Quality Tools for Schools Problem Solving Wheel
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]

Screen shot of the problem solving tool

Problem Solving Tool
Use this interactive tool! The IAQ Tools for Schools Problem Solving Wheel is now available in a web-ready version. Click on a health symptom to review a list of possible causes of these complaints. Then, use the resources and checklists available in the IAQ Tools for Schools Action Kit to identify and respond to IAQ issues. Find out what to do in an emergency.

Cover to the Design Tools for Schools fact sheet

Indoor Air Quality Design Tools for Schools Fact Sheet
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, 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.

Envisioning Excellence: Lessons from Effective School Indoor Air Quality Programs - A Snapshot of Profiles in IAQ Excellence

This collection of IAQ profiles provides a comprehensive look into several very different school districts that have applied the Framework for Effective School IAQ Management to create effective and enduring IAQ programs.

Envisioning Excellence: IAQ Strategies in Action - The Framework for Effective School IAQ Management

This resource details the step-by-step strategies and actions that successful school districts can take to create healthier and safer learning environments.

Discover the Power of Effective Evaluation of IAQ Management — Key Drivers in Action

Schools that leverage the Evaluate Driver of the IAQ Tools for Schools Framework for Effective IAQ Management are better positioned to create healthier learning environments. Read examples of districts that have used evaluation to refine their program and showcase their successes and learn how you can do the same.

Student Performance

 How Does Indoor Air Quality Impact Student Health and Academic Performance?

How Does Indoor Air Quality Impact Student Health and Academic Performance?
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.

Asthma in Schools

Cover to the Managing Asthma in the School Environment Publication

Managing Asthma in the School Environment
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.

Cover to the Help your Child Gain Control Over Asthma Brochure

Help Your Child Gain Control Over Asthma
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.

 

Mold in Schools

Cover to the Mold in Schools Fact Sheet

Mold in Schools Fact Sheet
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.

Cover to the Mold Remediation Fact Sheet

Mold Remediation in Schools and Commercial Buildings
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.

Access other mold-related publications and resources.

Radon in Schools

Cover to the Managing Radon in Schools Publication

Managing Radon in Schools
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.

Access other radon-related publications.

How to Order EPA Publications

You can order most of these Indoor Air Quality publications from EPA's National Service Center for Environmental Publications (NSCEP):

NSCEP Website
Phone: 1-800-490-9198 (M-F 11:00 am-3:00 pm ET) / Fax: (301) 604-3408
Email NSCEP (nscep@lmsolas.com)
Please use the EPA Document Number when ordering from NSCEP.