The AirBox Indoor Air Quality Assessment and Verification Testing

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 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 buildings 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flexibility allows buildings to ensure healthier indoor environments without being strictly bound to traditional, often outdated, ventilation requirements.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.” ...

The world of indoor air quality (IAQ) is constantly evolving, and recent advancements in technology and research are leading to better understanding and more effective solutions. One such advancement is the new ASHRAE Indoor Air Quality Procedure (IAQP) calculator, a powerful tool for predicting and controlling IAQ in buildings. AirBox, a leading innovator in smart ventilation solutions, is enthusiastically embracing this new calculator as a crucial component of its commitment to providing healthier and more sustainable indoor environments. What is the Indoor Air Quality Procedure? The Indoor Air Quality Procedure is an alternative to the widely used Ventilation Rate Procedure (VRP) for determining the design rate of outdoor airflow necessary to maintain acceptable indoor air quality. The IAQP design ensures that concentrations of design compounds and PM2.5, such as formaldehyde and ozone, in the indoor environment are kept below their design limits. This is achieved through a combination of indoor and outdoor source control, filtration and air cleaning, and outdoor air. What is the ASHRAE IAQP Calculator The ASHRAE IAQP calculator is a comprehensive tool published in 2024 as part of ASHRAE Standard 62.1-2022, Appendix F. Designed to be user-friendly, the calculator allows architects, engineers, and building owners to: Assess the potential IAQ impact of various building design features, including factors like occupancy, ventilation rates, filtration and air cleaning, and material emissions. Predict IAQ performance by forecasting how IAQ will change over time based on different scenarios. Identify and quantify sources of IAQ contamination, enabling targeted interventions to improve air quality. Optimize IAQ solutions through the use of data-driven insights to guide the selection of efficient and effective air filtration, ventilation, and other IAQ strategies.   AirBox's Embrace of the IAQP Calculator AirBox recognizes the importance of staying at the forefront of IAQ best practices. The IAQP calculator is a crucial tool for AirBox, enabling it to accurately assess indoor air quality and provide customized recommendations for improvement. We plan to utilize the calculator in the following ways: Project design and optimization: The calculator will be integrated into the design phase of AirBox projects, ensuring that ventilation and air cleaning systems are optimized for specific needs and scenarios. Client education and transparency: AirBox will use the calculator to provide clients with data-driven insights into their building's IAQ performance. Research and development: AirBox plans to leverage the calculator for research and development, furthering its understanding of IAQ dynamics and the effectiveness of its air purification solutions.   The Future of IAQ with AirBox and the ASHRAE IAQP Calculator The combined power of AirBox’s innovative air purification technology and the new ASHRAE IAQP calculator represents a significant step forward in achieving optimal indoor air quality. The calculator's scientific foundation and industry-recognized standards ensure reliable and accurate IAQ assessments, making it an indispensable tool for AirBox in its mission to improve indoor air quality. By embracing data-driven solutions and prioritizing occupant health, AirBox is paving the way for a future where buildings are not just structures but thriving environments that support well-being and productivity ...

Introduction Imagine walking into a bustling manufacturing plant where the air is thick with volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and lingering odors from various industrial processes. The air quality challenges in such high-impurity environments can be daunting. Not only do these pollutants affect the health and well-being of workers, but they also compromise the efficiency of operations and the quality of the products. The Vortex High Volume Air Purifier (HVP) from AirBox is designed specifically to tackle these tough air quality issues. With its impressive airflow capacity and robust four-stage filtration system, the Vortex is a game-changer for environments that demand clean, healthy air. In this blog post, I’ll take you through the remarkable features of the Vortex and how it stands out in purifying air in high-impurity environments and why it is the ultimate solution for industries where air quality is a critical concern. Moving Air, Moving Fast: The Vortex's Airflow Capacity One of the standout features of the Vortex HVP is its impressive airflow capacity. In simple terms, airflow capacity refers to the volume of air an air purifier can move through its system, typically measured in cubic feet per minute (CFM) or cubic feet per hour (CFH). The Vortex HVP excels in this regard, producing about 9,200 CFM, which translates to a staggering 552,000 CFH. This makes the Vortex highly effective in handling large spaces and ensuring that even the most polluted air is swiftly and thoroughly cleaned. In a large manufacturing plant, for example, the Vortex can quickly purify the air, removing harmful pollutants and creating a safer, healthier environment. This high airflow capacity is crucial for maintaining air quality in environments where large volumes of air need to be cleaned efficiently and effectively. The Power of Molecular Adsorption: How the Vortex Tackles VOCs and Beyond One of the most critical aspects of the Vortex's design is its advanced Molecular Adsorbent filtration system, which is highly effective in removing VOCs and other airborne pollutants. What Are VOCs? Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are a group of chemicals commonly found in industrial environments. They can originate from a variety of sources, including solvents, paints, and cleaning supplies. VOCs are unpleasant due to their strong odors and can also pose significant health risks, such as respiratory irritation and long-term health effects. Vortex’s Molecular Adsorbent Filtration System The Vortex HVP uses a specialized Molecular Adsorbent filtration system designed to tackle these pollutants head-on. This system incorporates various proprietary blends of adsorbent media to target specific contaminants, such as heavy concentrations of VOCs.. Effectiveness Against Pollutants The effectiveness of the Vortex's carbon filtration system is evident in its ability to handle various high-impurity environments. This system excels in settings such as smoking lounges, manufacturing facilities, and areas with heavy chemical use. By effectively removing VOCs, ozone, aldehydes, and smoke, the Vortex ensures that the air is significantly cleaner and safer for occupants. For instance, in a smoking lounge, the Vortex can dramatically reduce the concentration of smoke and odor, providing a more pleasant and healthier environment. Similarly, in a manufacturing facility with heavy chemical use, the Vortex’s Molecular Adsorbent filters can remove harmful organic compounds, improving overall air quality. Certified HEPA: A Double Layer of Protection Ensuring clean air in high-impurity environments requires more than just one type of filtration. The Vortex High Volume Air Purifier uses a sophisticated dual filtration system. This starts with Molecular Adsorbent filters to capture larger pollutants like VOCs and aldehydes. Following this, Certified HEPA filters trap smaller particles, ensuring thorough air cleaning. How HEPA Filters Work AirBox Certified HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filters capture at least 99.99% of airborne particles as small as 0.3 microns, including dust, bacteria, pollen, and mold spores. They are highly effective in removing tiny particles that can be harmful when inhaled, making them a standard in industries requiring exceptionally clean air. Why Dual Filtration is Crucial Combining Certified HEPA and Molecular Adsorbent filtration offers robust defense against a broad spectrum of contaminants: In environments with high levels of both particulate matter and gaseous pollutants, this dual filtration ensures the air is exceptionally clean. For instance, in healthcare facilities, this system means the air is free of harmful microorganisms and large chemical pollutants, providing critical protection against airborne diseases and other hazards. Built to Last: The Vortex's Durable Construction In challenging environments, durability is crucial. The Vortex High Volume Air Purifier is designed with robust construction to withstand industrial and commercial settings. Construction Materials The Vortex uses aircraft-grade aluminum panels and a sturdy structural steel frame. This provides exceptional strength and durability, ensuring the unit performs well under harsh conditions.  Weather Resistance The Vortex HVP is equipped with a durable powder coating, tested for 1,000 hours of salt spray resistance. This prevents rust and corrosion, even in coastal areas. It also features R12 insulation, enhancing its resistance to varying weather conditions and making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor installations. In industrial environments, where equipment faces extreme conditions, the Vortex's durable construction ensures it remains effective. Whether on a rooftop in Los Angeles or in a harsh industrial setting, the Vortex HVP provides reliable air purification with minimal maintenance. The Vortex’s durability not only extends its lifespan but also ensures continuous air purification in demanding environments, making it a cost-effective investment for maintaining high air quality over the long term. Our meticulously crafted construction stands the test of time, backed by a transferable lifetime warranty, assuring you of unparalleled peace of mind. Seamless Integration: The Vortex and Your Existing HVAC System A key feature of the Vortex High Volume Air Purifier is its ability to seamlessly integrate with existing HVAC systems. This integration is designed to be straightforward and efficient, minimizing disruption and maximizing performance. Easy Installation The Vortex can be easily connected to various new and existing HVAC systems, including indoor and outdoor mechanical systems. This integration means that the Vortex enables the design of IAQP and energy savings by using recirculated and purified air. This setup reduces the need for additional equipment and simplifies the overall air purification process. Cost-Effectiveness Integrating the Vortex with existing mechanical systems is cost-effective. It reduces installation time and expenses by utilizing the current ductwork and HVAC infrastructure. This seamless integration also optimizes the overall HVAC system, improving its efficiency and reducing energy costs by ensuring that only clean air is heated or cooled. Efficiency and Performance By integrating with the new and existing mechanical systems, the Vortex enhances the overall air quality management of the building. It ensures that all air circulated within the space is purified, addressing both particulate and gaseous pollutants. This comprehensive approach to air purification improves indoor air quality significantly, benefiting both health and operational efficiency. In retrofit projects, the Vortex can be added to older buildings to upgrade their air purification capabilities without the need for extensive renovations. In new constructions, it provides a state-of-the-art solution that integrates smoothly with modern mechanical system designs. Smart Fleet Management: Enhancing Efficiency and Control The Vortex High Volume Air Purifier’s Smart Fleet Management System offers advanced real-time monitoring and control. This system allows HVAC professionals to track the purifier's performance continuously, ensuring any issues are detected and addressed promptly. Real-time data helps maintain optimal air quality by providing insights into the purifier's operation and effectiveness. Scheduling and Automation  The system's scheduling and automation capabilities are designed to enhance efficiency. Users can set specific times for the Vortex to operate, ensuring it runs only when necessary. This automation reduces energy consumption and operational costs, while also extending the lifespan of the unit by preventing unnecessary wear and tear. Seamless Integration with HVAC Systems  Integrating seamlessly with existing HVAC systems, the Smart Fleet Management System optimizes overall performance. It coordinates air purification with HVAC functions, ensuring that both systems work together efficiently. This integration leads to improved energy efficiency, reduced maintenance costs, and consistent air quality. Conclusion The Vortex High Volume Air Purifier is designed for high-impurity environments, offering unmatched air purification through high airflow capacity, advanced Molecular Adsorption filtration, Certified HEPA filtration, and durable construction. Its seamless integration with existing mechanical systems ensures efficient and cost-effective operation. For HVAC professionals, the Vortex provides a reliable solution for maintaining clean air in industrial, commercial, and healthcare settings.  To learn more, contact a sales representative or visit our product page. Invest in the Vortex today for superior air quality ...