Planning new construction is an opportunity to recognize indoor environmental quality (IEQ) issues. Provides an overview of some common IEQ issues associated with construction projects. A building's heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning (HVAC) system is by far the single most common cause of IEQ problems and complaints. (MLF)

An agreement between Johnson Controls and a Maryland school district provided financing for the initial capital expenditure to upgrade and control the heating, ventilating, and air conditioning equipment at a high school and guaranteed savings during the 5-year contract. (MLF)

Energy management systems are designed to monitor and control energy consumption. A variety of these systems is described. (MLF)

Indoor air quality is a major concern for educators involved in the development of new school facilities, or the remodeling and maintenance of existing ones. This guide addresses the issue of air quality, the health concerns involved, and procedures for minimizing the impact of pollutants in the school environment. It defines common indoor air…

Responding to questions about a microcomputer center in a hot summer environment and a cold winter environment, the author outlines equipment and personnel needs. (MD)

A major source of indoor air contamination in schools originates within the heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning systems (HVAC), with draw-through systems being the worst offenders. Lists provisions for designing an HVAC system and a set of criteria to adhere to when planning new construction or renovations. (nine references) (MLF)

Discusses issues addressed by OCLC in the construction of its new headquarters. Original design criteria and a retrospective appraisal of solutions are presented in the following areas: (1) structural requirements; (2) environmental considerations; (3) utilities; (4) fire protection; (5) security; and (6) workspace design. Essential design issues…

This manual is a guide for performing energy audits in school buildings using low- and no-cost measures found effective in Minnesota. The manual helps school maintenance and administrative personnel conduct walk-through inspections of school buildings, focusing on the energy efficiency of their equipment and operations. The measures recommended…

This report examines the problem of acoustic inadequacy in the classroom, how it affects students and teachers, and possible solutions. It explains how to predict classroom adequacy for communication by assessing the level of speech in competition with other noise, and the level of that competing noise itself in terms of reverberation that allows…

After a study of 3,000 classrooms in 130 schools in 16 states, the Environmental Protection Agency urged all schools to conduct tests for radon. Explains a 6-step screening test, methods of reducing radon concentrations, and how the risk from radon exposure compares with other risks. (MLF)

Discusses the following aspects of the design of mechanical and electrical systems to meet the various requirements of libraries: (1) library planning teams; (2) raised floors; (3) lighting considerations; (4) air quality; (5) acoustics; and (6) climate controls. The importance of adaptability to meet future needs is stressed. (MES)

Energy engineers can help schools build complete energy conservation systems. These specialists (1) conduct thorough energy audits, (2) design and supervise retrofitting, (3) recommend and supervise preventive maintenance programs, (4) recommend computerized controls, and (5) monitor utility bills. This article includes description of a school…

Numerous studies have reported the deteriorating conditions in school buildings. One of the primary causes of this national problem is lack of proper maintenance of school facilities. Outlines a comprehensive assessment and planning process to provide a district with a road map for making decisions about facility improvement. (MLF)

An informal survey of 20 major urban school districts found that 40% were currently operating in a "break down" maintenance mode. A majority, 57.9%, also indicated they saw considerable benefits in contracting for heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) maintenance services with outside firms. Offers guidelines in selecting…

The nonprofit Alliance to Save Energy has been helping schools reduce energy consumption through a combination of retrofits, classroom instruction, and behavior. Lists eight small steps to big energy savings, among them: involve the whole school, stop leaks, turn off computers, and recycle. (MLF)