| and check the installation and operation of moisture barriers, weep holes, HVAC systems, roof, windows, and vents. (5) Water systems. Ensure that the following water systems are built, operated and maintained to prevent the growth of Legionella and other microorganisms that can become airborne: potable water systems, emergency water systems, heated spas, whirlpool baths, drip pans, architectural fountains, waterfall systems, cooling towers, fluid coolers, evaporative condensers, direct evaporative air coolers, misters, air washers and humidifiers. Treatment for these systems includes the use of chemicals, ionization and/or heat, depending on the system. Additional guidance can be found in ASHRAE Guideline 12-2000 "Minimizing the Risk of Legionellosis Associated with Building Water Systems." (6) Pest, bird and animal control. (A) Prevent entry. Pests, birds, bats, rodents and other wild animals should not be allowed to roost in or enter occupied buildings, including attics, plenums or in or near fresh air intakes, as they may carry disease and/or produce conditions conducive to the growth of disease-causing microbials. Professional assistance may be necessary for the removal of potentially dangerous live animals or if the area is heavily infested. (B) Contamination. Areas contaminated with animal urine, feces, nesting materials, etc. should be decontaminated, i.e., physical removal of waste and disinfecting of the area. Protection for building occupants and workers should be required during the process, using the procedures of United States Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS): "Histoplasmosis: Protecting Workers at Risk," DHHS (NIOSH) Publication Number 97-146, September 1997. (7) Remediation. Microbial contamination on surfaces or in water reservoirs is unacceptable and should be removed by qualified personnel according to current recognized guidelines and standards to avoid dissemination and worker/occupant exposure. Appropriate steps should be taken to prevent future growth in these locations, without causing occupant exposure to potentially harmful chemicals. (8) Sewage backups. Building occupants should be removed from any area flooded by sewage. The cleanup should ensure rapid decontamination (to include water extraction, cleaning and disinfecting) and drying of all wet surfaces. Contaminated porous materials should be replaced. (h) Animals. If building activities require or allow certain animals in the building, ensure that they are in a controlled area with proper ventilation, are contained in enclosures that can easily be cleaned and that all animal waste is removed daily. (i) Plants. Plants should be maintained in a healthy and clean condition. Plants that have been over-watered, over-fertilized, or have insect infestations contribute to poor air quality. The benefits of well-maintained plants in improving indoor air quality are insignificant in large areas or buildings. (j) Loading dock operation. Vehicle exhaust should be prevented from entering enclosed work spaces (including air intakes and building openings) by installing barriers to airflow from loading dock areas (i.e. doors, curtains, etc.) and using pressurization. (k) Remediation of contaminants. Use recognized best practices for the removal of toxic contaminants of concern (lead, microbial, asbestos, chemical, etc.) when performing maintenance, repairs or remediation. Always follow any applicable state and federal laws. (l) Cleaning products. (1) Toxicity. The least toxic cleaning products needed to accomplish the task should be used. Sanitizers are not recommended for general cleaning. (2) Directions. Follow manufacturer's directions for cleaning products. The use of excessive amounts of cleaning materials can cause unacceptable IAQ. (3) Training. Assure that all personnel using cleaning products and hazardous chemicals have been trained in the proper usage and handling of such products as required by the Texas Hazard Communication Act, the Health and Safety Code, §502.010. (4) Labeling. The employer shall follow the labeling requirements of the Health and Safety Code, §502.007. (5) Ventilation. Adequate ventilation during and immediately after use of cleaning products should be used to minimize exposure to potentially harmful or irritating substances in the products. (6) Scheduling. Schedule the use of cleaning products when building is unoccupied to minimize exposure to students, staff and other occupants. (m) Pesticide use. (1) Management. Pest management, for both building and lawn care, should emphasize non-chemical management strategies whenever practical, and least toxic chemical controls when pesticides are needed. (2) Products. Pest control products used in and around a building should be documented and a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) made available for building occupant review if requested. Either a written procedure or contract language will ensure that people who use pest control products read and follow all label directions for proper use, mixing, storage, and disposal. (3) Statutes. Pest management for schools must be in accordance with the Structural Pest Control Act, Texas Revised Civil Statutes, Article 135b-6, §4J and 22 Texas Administrative Code, §595.11 (relating to schools). These protocols are recommended for all other government buildings. (4) Contracting. When contracting for pest control services, the use of businesses that conform to the standards set forth in 22 Texas Administrative Code §595.14 relating to Reduced Impact Pest Control Service, is recommended. (5) Removal. Dead pests should be promptly removed from the premises. (n) Emergencies. An emergency response plan, including staff training, should be developed for chemical spills, release of hazardous air contaminants, and similar events. Such response measures may be required by state or federal law in some circumstances. (1) Ventilation. The required outside ventilation air rate should not be interrupted during building operation unless a known contaminant presents an immediate concern of entering the building's outside air intake. Consider the use of high efficiency and carbon-filtered outdoor air to improve general IAQ and reduce potential impact of intentionally released contaminants. Outdoor air intakes should be able to be closed manually in case of an intentional release of contaminants outside. (2) Airborne Chemical, Biological, or Radiological Attacks. Guidance is available from the United States Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS): "Guidance for Protecting Building Environments from Airborne Chemical, Biological, or Radiological Attacks," DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 2002-139. (o) Records. (1) Material safety data sheets. A public employer shall maintain a legible copy of the current Material Safety Data Sheet for each hazardous chemical used or brought into the workplace including those in cleaning supplies, pesticides and art supplies in accordance with the Health and Safety Code, §502.006. (2) Workplace chemical list. The employer shall prepare a workplace chemical list if required by the Health and Safety Code, §502.005. (3) Facility chemical list. The employer shall prepare a facility chemical list (also known as a Tier Two report) if required by the Health and Safety Code §506.006. (4) Maintenance records. Maintenance should be documented by a signed and dated report or check-off list. |
