Beneath the Hard Hat
C.D. Smith Company Blog

Indoor Air Quality

Date: Feb 21, 2020 8:34:00 AM | Author: Brad O'Connor
  • 28_Instagram_ThinkSafeWorkSafe_2020February20

The harshest part of winter may be behind us, but temperatures are still struggling to stay above freezing. Temporary heat is necessary for job sites to keep everyone warm, but when the proper steps to keep everyone safe are skipped, it can become a serious health hazard. ⁣

Taking precautions both inside and outside the building will help avoid safety issues. When working near the intake of a forced-air heater, make sure the following steps are taken:⁣
-Any engine exhaust in the area needs to be downwind⁣
-Never dry cut concrete, block or brick near the intake⁣
-A heater may need to be shut down during concrete sealing or if other vapors will be introduced to the area⁣

The actions listed above will negatively impact air quality, putting those inside the building at risk. According to OSHA’s Indoor Air Quality resources, the immediate effects of poor indoor air quality (IAQ) can lead to headaches, fatigue, trouble concentrating and irritation of the eyes, nose, throat, and lungs. ⁣

Poor ventilation and extended exposure to indoor pollutants such as building materials, cleaning supplies, and fumes from heating sources can even lead to long-term effects including respiratory diseases, heart disease, and cancer. ⁣

Indoor air quality problems are serious. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), poor IAQs are considered one of the largest environmental issues in the United States. If you are experiencing symptoms of poor IAQ, take action immediately. Make sure your air system is maintained and the area near the intake of a forced-air heater is properly ventilated this winter.⁣



 

Recent Posts


 


Get in Touch

Corporate Headquarters
125 Camelot Drive
Fond du Lac, WI 54935

Milwaukee Office
8325 W. Tower Ave
Milwaukee, WI 53223

Madison Office
316 West Washington Avenue
Suite 900 
Madison, WI 53703

La Crosse Office
333 Front Street North
Suite 701 
La Crosse, WI 54601

Ready to build community and get connected with commercial construction expertise? Use the below form to submit questions or request information. We look forward to learning more and discovering how we can make YOUR PROJECT. OUR PRIORITY.®.