Berkshire, United Kingdom: Building Services Research and Information Association (BSRIA) has announced that it has released a new topic guide on the subject of ‘indoor air quality’ (IAQ), aimed at those looking for introductory information about IAQ, including definition, history and prevalence. There is also information on the types of contaminants and their exposure limits as well as providing readers with a useful site map, added the announcement.

The BSRIA Topic Guides, the announcement highlighted, are designed to be an ‘at a glance publication’, introducing readers to key industry topics and suggesting further reading.

The association said that the expert commentary is provided by BSRIA’s Asset Performance Team Leader, Blanca Beato-Arribas, who said: “People spend approximately 80 per cent of their time indoors. There is enough evidence that links poor air quality with permanent damages to health or even death.  Therefore, we should be aware of the quality of the air that we breathe both at home and at work, and ensuring good indoor air quality at work should be a priority for employers.”

She added: “This guide provides a brief insight into the most common contaminants, both from indoor sources and external sources, and what the exposure limits to these contaminants are. It also provides a summary of the current legislation and a guide map of what contaminants to investigate.”

The association informed that the guide, TG10/2016 ‘At a Glance’ – Indoor Air Quality, can be downloaded for free from its website.