Indoor Air Quality

The quality of the air inside a building is affected by a variety of comfort, physical, chemical and biological factors. Read more about the various components of Indoor Air Quality and how EHS can help.

IAQ vs. IEQ

Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ) and Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) are terms that are sometimes used interchangeably to refer to the air quality within a structure. It should be noted that IEQ refers to overall conditions of the building including not only air, but lighting, acoustics, thermal comfort, etc. IAQ considers the air within a building, focusing on the occupant’s health and comfort by taking into account chemical, physical, and biological contaminants.

Comfort Factors

An Indoor Air Quality Assessment measures several parameters that affect the comfort of occupants, such as temperature, carbon dioxide levels, humidity, and air changes.

Chemical and Biological Contaminants

Some areas on campus may be subject to chemical and biological contamination of the indoor air. For example, laboratories frequently experience chemical odor issues, and excess moisture in a building can lead to mold growth. Learn more about mold within buildings here.

Indoor Air Quality Assessment

SMU’s Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) group can provide Indoor Air Quality Assessments for the campus community upon request. If your medical provider feels that an illness or symptoms may be the result of air quality within your indoor space, please submit an Indoor Air Quality Assessment via STABLE.