The AirBox Indoor Air Quality Assessment and Verification Testing

The Indoor Air Quality Procedure (IAQP) is the new performance-based ventilation method that incorporates air cleaning into ventilation design to reduce the amount of outdoor air intake required to ensure acceptable indoor air quality, effectively reducing the strain on existing HVAC systems to allow for less energy consumption and less HVAC capacity in new construction. The History of IAQP: As the foremost authority for building design, the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) continually updates ventilation design standards via ASHRAE Standard 62.1 to ensure safe, breathable environment for building occupants. The most current version is ASHRAE Standard 62.1-2022 which introduced a new Indoor Air Quality Procedure that not only allows a breathable, occupiable indoor space, but also ensures safe indoor air quality (IAQ). The Old IAQP: The Indoor Air Quality Procedure was first introduced in ASHRAE Standard 62.1-2019 as an alternative ventilation method to the most commonly used Ventilation Rate Procedure (VRP). This ventilation approach offered a framework for maintaining building comfort in tandem with safe indoor air quality, allowing for greater flexibility in addressing specific environmental conditions and pollutant sources. While the IAQP established foundational principles for indoor air quality, it left certain aspects of research and development to the project engineers and other professionals. This encouraged innovation and adaption within the industry, as engineers could tailor solutions based on the unique needs of each building and the latest advancements in technology and air quality management. However, this also meant that practitioners had to navigate a landscape with varying levels of understanding and implementation of those guidelines, highlighting the need for ongoing research and collaboration in the field. The New IAQP: The recent updates to the Indoor Air Quality Procedure in ASHRAE Standard 62.1-2022 replace subjective interpretations by project engineers with clear, quantitative requirements. This ensures acceptable indoor air quality and reduces risk for those designing with this ventilation method. Let's talk about these changes: What are the differences? List of Design Compounds: Table 6-5 was added into the "new" Indoor Air Quality Procedure which provides a list of 15 contaminants or "Design Compounds" and their limits. This addition gives engineers a finite list to measure and certify acceptable indoor air quality has been met. Indoor Air Quality Verification Testing: ASHRAE provides IAQ testing requirements to verify system contaminant removal efficiency. The requirements include allowed laboratory test methods, direct read instrument specifications, minimum calibration, and more. IAQP Calculator: ASHRAE developed a third-party user-friendly calculator to simplify IAQP calculations and predict IAQ impact and performance. The Benefits of IAQP: Why stick to the VRP for your building's ventilation design when there's a better option? The new engineered ventilation system design (IAQP) allows recirculation of purified air, drastically reducing the need for outside air. This reduction brings several benefits: Energy and Cost Savings: Reducing the requirements for outside air lessens the demand on HVAC systems, resulting in decreased energy consumption for heating and cooling, ultimately lowering operational cost and supporting decarbonization and sustainability efforts. Reduced Equipment Requirements: By minimizing outdoor air intake, it becomes possible to downsize various equipment, including chillers, cooling towers, heating systems, and air handlers. This leads to cost savings during installation and lowers the requirement for large energy recovery systems or dedicated outdoor air systems. Enhanced Indoor Air Quality: The IAQP enables strict control over indoor air contaminants through the use of advanced filtration and compliant air cleaning technologies, which leads to acceptable indoor air quality. Resilience Against Outdoor Threats: Relying heavily on outside air can expose occupants to elevated levels of pollutants, especially with the growing risk of wildfires and urban pollution. IAQP's focus on contaminant control makes buildings more resilient by reducing the intake of potentially harmful outdoor air, which is crucial for areas experiencing ongoing air quality issues. When Will Your State Adopt the IAQP into Building Code? Luckily, you don't have to wait. The International Mechanical Code (IMC) allows for the use of both the VRP and the IAQP, the latter of which is described as an "engineered ventilation system design." In addition, the IMC has accepted a change in its next revision to further support the IAQP based on a request from ASHRAE. Furthermore, the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) is developing it's LEED Version 5 parameters and has recently published it for public review. Among the various earnable credits for LEED Certification is the adoption of the Indoor Air Quality Procedure as it is written in ASHRAE Standard 62.1-2022. Similarly, performing indoor air quality testing to the requirements in the same standard also counts towards LEED Certification. How Do I Implement the IAQP? With largely in-room portable air purifiers in the market, how is the new performance-based ventilation procedure, or IAQP, possible? AirBox has recently introduced its line of High-Volume Purifiers (HVPs) that were specifically designed for the Indoor Air Quality Procedure. The units range from 2,000 to 9,000 CFM to cover large scale, multi-room, and whole-building purification depending on building design. With advanced filtration on board, the AirBox HVPs can effectively remove all design compounds and reduce outdoor air intake by 50%-90% resulting in immense yearly energy savings and a reduction in HVAC capacity in new construction. In addition, the AirBox Analytical Group can also perform the required Indoor Air Quality Verification Testing in accordance with all testing requirements put forth by ASHRAE Standard 62.1-2022. AirBox combines data from cutting-edge sensor technology with in-depth lab analysis performed by an accredited third-party lab to ensure a comprehensive and accurate assessment and verification of air quality. Get Started: AirBox can assist your design team in implementing the Indoor Air Quality Procedure whether it's for retrofit or new construction. Our team of experts specializes in leveraging the newest ventilation and indoor air quality standards for our clients. We offer a comprehensive, turnkey solution for IAQP, providing everything from design assistance and feasibility calculations to solutions and verification testing. Analytical Group can also perform Reach out to our team to get started on feasibility calculations and projected ROI ...

In response to the growing frequency and intensity of wildfires and prescribed burns, ASHRAE (the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers) has released Guideline 44-2024. This comprehensive document provides guidance on protecting building occupants from the harmful effects of smoke during wildfire and prescribed burn events. The guideline addresses various aspects of building design, engineering, and operation, marking a significant step forward in public health and safety regarding air quality in residential and commercial structures. Overview of ASHRAE Guideline 44-2024 Purpose The core purpose of ASHRAE Guideline 44-2024 is to offer practical strategies and best practices for mitigating the risks associated with smoke exposure during wildfire events. It aims to assist building owners, engineers, architects, and facility managers in developing effective systems and processes that ensure a safe indoor environment in the face of poor outdoor air quality. Key Features 1. Risk Assessment and Planning Guideline 44 emphasizes the importance of understanding local wildfire risks and incorporating this knowledge into building design and operations. It encourages a thorough assessment of potential hazards and the development of contingency plans that prioritize occupant safety. 2. Building Strategies The guideline provides strategies for enhancing the building envelope to minimize smoke infiltration, as well as ventilation changes to better control indoor air quality while minimizing outdoor air intake during polluted events. Some of these building enhancements include sealing gaps in the structural design, employing MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) 13 filters within HVAC systems, and adding proven air cleaning technologies to reduce indoor smoke levels. 4. Communication and Training Another essential aspect of the guideline is the emphasis on communication protocols. Organizations are urged to train staff on recognizing air quality concerns related to wildfires and to establish clear communication channels with occupants regarding safety measures and building operations. 5. Post-Event Procedures Post-wildfire smoke events can lead to lingering air quality issues. ASHRAE Guideline 44 includes protocols for assessing and restoring indoor air quality after such events, including flushing out the space, assessing and verifying the indoor air quality with compliant testing, and more. Implementation and Compliance Implementing the recommendations outlined in ASHRAE Guideline 44-2024 may require collaboration among various stakeholders, including building owners, design professionals, and facility managers. By adhering to the guideline, organizations can enhance occupant safety and reduce liability associated with smoke exposure. Putting Standards Into Actions If wildfire smoke is prevalent in your area, immediate changes can be easily made. AirBox offers highly compliant portable air purifiers for an easy plug-and-play set-up. We have also recently introduced its line of High-Volume Purifiers (HVPs) that utilize Certified HEPA and Advanced Molecular Adsorbent filtration capable of catching smoke and other pollutants in indoor air. These units range from 2,000 to 9,000 CFM to cover large scale, multi-room, and whole-building purification depending on building design. With the AirBox Advanced Operating System on board, the AirBox HVPs can switch to a building Smoke Readiness Plan with the press of a button. Even in normal operating modes, these units can reduce outdoor air intake by 50%-90% resulting in immense yearly energy savings and a reduction in HVAC capacity in new construction using the new ASHRAE Indoor Air Quality Procedure ventilation design. In addition, the AirBox Analytical Group can also perform Indoor Air Quality Assessment and Verification Testing in accordance with all testing requirements put forth by ASHRAE Standard 62.1-2022. AirBox combines data from cutting-edge sensor technology with in-depth lab analysis performed by an accredited third-party lab to ensure a comprehensive and accurate assessment and verification of indoor air quality. AirBox can assist your design team in implementing ASHRAE Guideline 44 whether it’s for retrofit or new construction. Our team of experts specializes in leveraging the newest ventilation and indoor air quality standards for our clients. Reach out to our team to get started. A Cleaner Future ASHRAE Guideline 44-2024 signifies a vital step forward in addressing the challenges posed by smoke from wildfires and prescribed burns. By providing a comprehensive framework for protecting building occupants, the guideline empowers architects, engineers, and facility managers to implement effective strategies that enhance indoor air quality and reduce health risks during wildfire events. For more detailed insights, stakeholders are encouraged to review the complete ASHRAE Guideline 44-2024 document, available through the ASHRAE website and other professional channels ...

The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) recently published its proposed LEED Version 5 for public review. This significant milestone not only symbolizes an ongoing commitment to enhancing sustainability in the built environment, but it also underscores a pivotal shift in prioritizing indoor air quality (IAQ) standards-a move that is more crucial than ever in the wake of recent global health challenges we've faced. What's New in LEED Version 5? The transition to LEED Version 5 signals a more advanced approach in addressing various environmental concerns, particularly those related to human health. The most notable addition to the proposed update is the incorporation of the latest indoor air quality standards set forth by ASHRAE (American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers). Specifically, LEED Version 5 will allow the adoption of certain practices within ASHRAE Standard 62.1-2022 and ASHRAE Standard 241-2023 as earnable credits, which lays out comprehensive guidelines for maintain healthy indoor environments. Indoor Air Quality Procedure ASHRAE Standard 62.1-2022 introduced a new Indoor Air Quality Procedure (IAQP), enabling building designers and operators to incorporate air cleaning into ventilation design to reduce outdoor air intake resulting in immense energy savings. This flexibility allows buildings to ensure healthier indoor environments without being strictly bound to traditional, often outdated, ventilation requirements. By endorsing this standard, LEED Version 5 promotes practices that adapt to the dynamic nature of indoor air quality, enhancing overall occupant health and productivity. Indoor Air Quality Assessment Testing In addition to the earnable credits through the implementation of the IAQP, LEED Version 5 also includes specifications for indoor air quality assessment testing also outlined in ASHRAE Standard 62.1-2022. These requirements provide a detailed framework for evaluating the air quality within buildings, emphasizing the measurement of a variety of contaminants, testing equipment calibration specifications, and the processes in which the assessments must be performed. Air Cleaner Effectiveness Testing ASHRAE Standard 241-2023 lays out guidelines for prescriptive indoor air quality management when there is heightened risk for infectious aerosol contamination and for the first time, provides quantitative testing requirements for the effectiveness of air cleaning technology. When adding indoor air cleaning systems to ventilation design, LEED Version 5 will allow credits to be earned when such devices are tested for ASHRAE Standard 241-2023 and ASHRAE Standard 62.1-2022 requirements. By aligning with ASHRAE's rigorous testing standards, the LEED Version 5 framework encourages the adoption of proven air cleaning technologies, empowering building owners and designers to make informed decisions that contribute to healthier indoor environments. This initiative not only supports sustainability goals but also fosters resilience in buildings, promoting a guaranteed approach to environmental and public health in the built environment. Public Review: Your Chance to Contribute The launch of the public review phase allows stakeholders to provide input on the proposed LEED Version 5. This collaborative approach is vital for ensuring that the credits are practical, relevant, and aligned with the evolving needs on the communities. Engaging in this process not only contributes to refining the crediting system but also fosters a collective commitment toward creating healthier and more resilient built environments for future generations. Conclusion The publication of proposed LEED Version 5 by the USGBC marks a watershed moment in the realm of sustainable buildings. By embracing the ASHRAE Standard 62.1-2022's Indoor Air Quality Procedure, its IAQ assessment specifications, and ASHRAE Standard 241-2023 air cleaner testing requirements, the USGBC is not only ensuring that buildings meet a higher standard of indoor air quality, but it is also equipping building professionals with the tools necessary to actively monitor and improve these conditions. In a world where the implications of air quality have never been more apparent, the proposed changes signal a commitment to sustainability that values human health alongside environmental stewardship. We encourage everyone in the industry to engage in the public review process, ensuring that the evolution of LEED reflects the collective wisdom and needs of the community. Together, let's strive for a future where our built environments support not only the planet but the well-being of every individual ...

Raleigh, NC - [October 2nd, 2024] - AirBox, a leader in air purification technology and indoor air quality testing, proudly participated as an exhibitor at the CleanAIRE NC Breathe Conference held last week in Raleigh, North Carolina. The conference, aimed at fostering collaboration and innovation in air quality improvement efforts across North Carolina, provided an excellent platform for AirBox to showcase its cutting-edge solutions and engage with key stakeholders in the environment health sector. The CleanAIRE NC Breathe Conference brought together leaders from government, industry, academia, and environmental advocacy organizations, all dedicated to advancing environmental initiatives and addressing the pressing challenges of pollution in North Carolina. AirBox's presence at the event underscored the company's commitment to enhancing public health through advanced air purification technology and comprehensive indoor air quality assessment and verification testing. During the conference, AirBox displayed its Vortex 2000 HVP (High-Volume Purifier). The attendees were able to experience first-hand the 4-stages of filtration this unit utilizes, including Certified 99.99% HEPA and Advanced Molecular Adsorbent technology, and it's Advanced Operating System that connects to a wireless dashboard, allowing unit monitoring, adjusting, scheduling, and filter life tracking. The AirBox High-Volume Purifiers are revolutionizing the industry by allowing 50%-90% reduction in outdoor air, both retro-fit and designed in, providing immense energy savings and lower capital costs with the downsize of HVAC equipment. With the added benefits of clean air to all occupants, this unit was the perfect fit for the NC Breathe Conference. Additionally, the NC Breathe attendees were also able to stop at the booth and talk with the AirBox Environmental Scientist, Cara Cywinski, about the development and protocols of the AirBox Indoor Air Quality Assessment and Verification Testing. The AirBox Analytical Group provides for particulate and gaseous contaminant testing coupled with in-depth third-party lab analysis to ensure accuracy. These tools empower communities to track air pollution levels in real-time, providing valuable information for decision-makers to implement effective strategies for air quality management. "We are thrilled to have participated in the CleanAIRE 2024 NC Breathe Conference," said Cara Cywinski. "This event allows us to connect with other organizations that share our passion for cleaner air and healthier communities. Our technology plays a crucial role in understanding and managing indoor air quality, and we are excited to collaborate with others in this vital effort." Throughout the conference, AirBox representatives engaged with attendees, sharing insights on the importance of data-driven approaches to indoor air quality management. The response to AirBox's innovative solutions was overwhelmingly positive, indicating a strong interest in technology that can significantly improve air quality. As part of its ongoing commitment to provide the cleanest spaces for all, AirBox is dedicated to supporting initiatives that promote environmental sustainability and public health. The company looks forward to continuing its partnership with organizations like CleanAIRE NC to drive impactful change in air quality across North Carolina and beyond. For more information about AirBox and its solutions, please visit www.airboxamerica.com About AirBox: AirBox is an industry leader in contamination control and pathogen mitigation for commercial facilities and occupied spaces backed by 35 years of experience in micro-contamination management within the semiconductor and life science industries. AirBox indoor air quality solutions are designed to improve health and safety while providing a more sustainable built environment by reducing energy consumption. By leveraging advanced technology and data analytics, AirBox empowers communities to make informed decisions for healthier living environments ...

[Austin, Texas] – [August 29th, 2024] – AirBox, a leader in innovative air purification technology, is proud to announce the shipment of the first integrated total-building High-Volume Purifiers (HVPs). This pioneering initiative makes AirBox clients the first to reap the benefits of immense energy savings with the new Indoor Air Quality Procedure (IAQP) outlined by the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) Standard 62.1. Utilizing AirBox HVPs to enable IAQP, these facilities will see a reduction of up to 50%-90% of outdoor air, typically resulting in an ROI of less than three years. In light of the increasing awareness of the impact of indoor air quality, deployment of a standard to monitor the indoor air quality is crucial to safeguard the health and well-being of occupants and employees within a facility. Luckily, ASHRAE Standard 62.1-2022 – Ventilation and Acceptable Indoor Air Quality was introduced and is the first to provide a quantitative standard for acceptable indoor air quality, while offering an energy-saving alternative to conventional ventilation procedures. The new Indoor Air Quality Procedure allows a reduction in return and outdoor air by using air cleaners to remove harmful contaminants to recirculate clean air. Although previously impractical to implement with no suitable air cleaning devices to install, AirBox sought to fill that gap with the first ever High-Volume Air Purifiers. While the AirBox HVPs were originally designed to comply with the new ASHRAE Standard 241 – Control of Infectious Aerosols to supply up to five times the amount of clean air during times of heightened infection risk, AirBox soon realized the substantial absence in acceptable air cleaning devices that effectively mitigate the contaminants of concern while integrating with other ventilation systems within a building for the IAQP. AirBox then shifted air purification from traditional portable devices to high-volume, total-building solutions. Engineered and manufactured in the USA, these units are made to handle large spaces, making them particularly well-suited for new and existing industrial and commercial applications where air quality is paramount, such as schools, manufacturing facilities, restaurants, arenas, and more. Additionally, the AirBox HVPs not only meet the new requirements of the IAQP and Standard 241 but are equipped with the technology to comply with the up-and-coming ASHRAE Standard 44P – Protecting Building Occupants from Smoke During Wildfire and Prescribed Burn Events. The AirBox HVPs capture the regulated harmful contaminants listed in ASHRAE Standard 62.1-2022 Table 6-5 with their Advanced Molecular Adsorbent and Certified HEPA filtration technology designed to target airborne pathogens, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), allergens, and particulate matter from the facility’s environment, mitigating potential liability. Each High-Volume Purifier is also equipped with the AirBox Advanced Operating System (AOS), a wireless dashboard that integrates with Building Management Systems, to monitor, adjust, and schedule the units, productively minimizing maintenance needs. The AirBox AOS connects to integrated differential pressure, TVOC, and CO2 sensors to track filter efficiency and replacement timelines. With the growing emphasis on air quality, AirBox’s commitment to innovation and compliance is a vital step in enhancing sanitary conditions and ensuring the safety of a building’s occupants. "We have to start looking at ventilation differently in the post COVID era. AirBox is revolutionizing indoor air by leveraging new ventilation standards to provide substantial energy and capital cost savings. Change is long overdue." said Adam Smith, President of AirBox, “There is a new player in the HVAC industry and we’re changing the game. No one has been able to take advantage of the energy savings with the revamped IAQP, because there hasn’t been a solution to make it feasible...  The tools have not been in place to make it happen, until AirBox stepped up to the plate.” The ASHRAE Indoor Air Quality Procedure also requires Verification Testing for the contaminants of concern listed in ASHRAE Standard 62.1-2022 Table 6-5. To provide the total indoor air quality package, AirBox also developed a group of analytical technicians to test for each contaminant. The AirBox Indoor Air Quality Verification Testing includes the use of highly calibrated sensors, air sampling diagnostic equipment, and in-depth lab analysis performed by an accredited lab to ensure a comprehensive, accurate assessment of air quality and comply with all the testing requirements in ASHRAE Standard 62.1-2022. With the profound influence of indoor air quality ever evolving, it is crucial to not only learn the levels of pollutants present but to understand their sources to effectively mitigate the risks. As awareness of the importance of air quality continues to grow, AirBox remains at the forefront of solutions and services that not only comply with current regulations but also anticipate future standards. The deployment of these purifiers is a testament to the company’s commitment to innovation, safety, and public health at a time when commercial facilities are facing unprecedented challenges. For press inquiries or additional information about AirBox's High-Volume Purifiers and compliance initiatives, please contact: Matt DonovanDirector of Business DevelopmentAirBox(716) 864-3931mdonovan@airboxamerica.comwww.airboxamerica.com About AirBox: As an industry leader with 35 years of experience in micro-contamination settings associated with semiconductor and life science process environments, AirBox specializes in air quality compliance in accordance with ASHRAE Standard 62.1 requirements. Our team consists of highly trained engineers and scientists adept at evaluating particulate and gaseous contaminants, pinpointing potential pollution sources, and offering customized solution recommendations. AirBox is dedicated to redefining indoor air quality through innovative purification solutions and services ...

The Airborne Act, recently reintroduced by Virginia Representative Congressman Don Beyer with backing from ASHRAE and various industry groups, proposes a tax credit per square foot for indoor air quality (IAQ) assessments in commercial buildings. Announced on July 11, 2024, the reintroduction of this legislation aims to encourage non-residential property owners to perform IAQ assessments and enhance their ventilation and air filtration systems to better benefit the health of the building and its occupants. In a statement made during the announcement, Beyer emphasized the urgency of improving IAQ in workplaces due to ongoing concerns about pandemics, stating, "The COVID-19 pandemic illustrated the dangers of airborne respiratory diseases and the importance of adequate indoor ventilation and indoor air quality, but the improved HVAC and air filtration systems necessary to improve air quality can be expensive to install and maintain. This bill would use the tax code to give building owners incentives to perform IAQ inspections and upgrades, which would make our workplaces safer from both the threat of COVID-19 and future airborne disease outbreaks." The Airborne Act would provide commercial building owners with a tax credit of $1 per square foot for conducting IAQ evaluations, $5 per square foot for upgraded air filters, $50 per square foot for HVAC system improvements capped at 50% of the total project cost. Additionally, it introduces a voluntary certification program through the U.S. Department of Energy and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, allowing property owners to certify compliance with IAQ standards like ASHRAE Standard 62.1-2022, which the bill uses as its compliance foundation. The Airborne Act not only provides an incentive to improve indoor air quality in commercial buildings but also sets a clear standard to adhere to to maximize improvements. This bill requires these IAQ upgrades to be designed to minimize ventilation energy use through the Indoor Air Quality Procedure (IAQP) of ASHRAE Standard 62.1-2022, as opposed to the less energy-efficient Ventilation Rate Procedure. The Time is Now AirBox is the total solution for the Airborne Act of 2024. The AirBox IAQ Verification Testing and Assessment and their revolutionary High-Volume Air Purifiers (HVPs) are all designed and adhere to ASHRAE Standard 62.1-2022 and ASHRAE Standard 241 - Control of Infectious Aerosols, making AirBox the most qualified partner for IAQ improvements. AirBox has 35 years of micro-contamination settings associated with semiconductor and life science processes environments. Proudly designed and manufactured in the USA, our commercial air purifiers are equipped with Certified 99.99% HEPA filtration, advanced molecular adsorbent media, and the AirBox Advanced Operating System (AOS), a remotely controlled dashboard that allows you to connect, manage, adjust, schedule, and monitor your AirBox air purifiers. According to ASHRAE Executive Vice President Jeff Littleton, now is an opportune time to establish a national IAQ standard. He remarked, ”We regulate water and food, and as the pandemic showed, indoor air quality significantly impacts human health and comfort. Perhaps it’s time for federal regulation addressing indoor air quality.” ...