Leacock BLDG Indoor Quality Assess Feb2010

INDOOR AIR QUALITY ASSESSMENT REPORT
McGill University
Leacock Building
Montreal, Quebec
Assessment performed: November 30th - December 4th 2009
Prepared by:
GESTION ENVIRONNEMENTALE T. HARRIS INC.
___________________________
Brigitte Soucy, M. Sc.
Hygiene Project Manager
___________________________
Jemima Bellemare
Hygiene Technician
Prepared for:
Mr. Louis Boissonneault, Eng.
Project Manager
GENIVAR
1600 Ren-Lvesque Blvd. West, 16th Floor
Montreal, Quebec (H3H 1P9)
RAP 091208-01
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
OBJECTIVE
Personnel from Gestion Environnementale T. Harris Inc. (GETH) conducted a general Indoor
Air Quality (IAQ) assessment of the selected areas on the 3rd to 9th floors of the Leacock
Building located at 855 Sherbrooke Street West in Montreal, Quebec.
The assessment was performed from November 30th to December 4th 2009 at the request of Mr.
Louis Boissonneault, Project Manager at GENIVAR. This evaluation was conducted in order to
determine the quality of air following the replacement of two ventilation units that serve the 3rd
to 9th floors.
A range of measurements was taken within the areas under study. These included thermal
comfort parameters (temperature and percent relative humidity) and air quality parameters
(carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide and respirable suspended particulates).
METHODS
The indoor air quality assessment was performed in selected rooms throughout the 3rd to 9th
floors. The assessment was performed mainly in offices, but measurements were also taken in at
least one class room on each floor.
Spot testing for IAQ parameters was conducted three times throughout the day for a total of 47
sample locations including one exterior location. Measurements were taken in sufficient numbers
in order to determine if any significant differences in air quality parameters occurred from
location to location and during different periods of the day.
Continuous monitoring for IAQ parameters was conducted over a 24-hour period in three
locations on each floor (3rd to 9th floors) and consisted of recording measured parameters every
minute. Continuous monitoring locations were chosen according to information we received
from the employees in the weeks prior to our assessment.
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Results of the continuous monitoring are consistent with the results of the spot testing for IAQ
parameters and the following observations can be made:
Average carbon dioxide (CO2) concentrations are all below the ASHRAE guideline
concentration (950 ppm i.e. 600 ppm (at 17 CFM) above outdoor CO2 concentration) and
show that the rooms are receiving an adequate supply of fresh air.
Average carbon monoxide (CO) concentrations were all below the ASHRAE guideline for an
8-hour period (9 ppm).
Average temperatures measured in some rooms (318, 324, 443C, 539, 608, 718, 732, 812,
923 and 943) are above the ASHRAE maximum temperature guideline for winter months
(24 oC).
Temperatures above the ASHRAE maximum temperature guideline for winter months
(24 oC) were observed in most of the locations tested (see maximum values in Tables I to
VIII in Appendix I).
With the exception of rooms 318 and 324, average relative humidity levels are all above the
minimum relative humidity level of 20% for office spaces established by the RROHS. Most
of the rooms tested over a 24-hour period also meet the ASHRAE recommended range for
relative humidity (30-60%).
Average respirable suspended particulates (RSP) concentrations are all below the ASHRAE
guideline (50 g/m3).
CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Continuous monitoring results agree well with spot testing results and indicate that during
normal building operation, the quality of air within the locations tested should not represent a
health concern to building occupants and that the complaints may be related to thermal comfort
rather than contaminant levels.
Based on the results of the IAQ assessment performed in Leacock Building from November 30th
to December 4th 2009, GETH makes the following recommendations in order to improve the
comfort of the occupants:
Maintain temperature within ASHRAE guidelines, i.e. between 20 and 24oC for winter
months.
Avoid drifts in temperature exceeding the limits established by ASHRAE.
Maintain relative humidity levels within ASHRAE guidelines, i.e. between 30 and 60%.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1.
OBJECTIVE ........................................................................................................................ 1
2.
AIR QUALITY STANDARDS AND GUIDELINES ....................................................... 1
3.
METHODS ........................................................................................................................... 5
3.1
3.2
4.
INVESTIGATED AREAS ..................................................................................................... 5

THERMAL COMFORT AND IAQ PARAMETERS .................................................................. 5
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION .......................................................................................... 6
4.1
THERMAL COMFORT AND IAQ PARAMETERS .................................................................. 6
5.
CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS....................................................... 18
6.
LIMITATIONS .................................................................................................................. 20
APPENDIX I Detailed Results

APPENDIX II Graphical Representation (Continuous Monitoring)
APPENDIX III Sample Location
GENIVAR
1600 Ren-Lvesque Blvd. West, 16th Floor
Montreal, Quebec H3H 1P9
Attention:
Mr. Louis Boissonneault

Project Manager
Re:
Indoor Air Quality Assessment

McGill University - Leacock Building
Montreal, Quebec
______________________________________________________________________________
1.
OBJECTIVE
Personnel from Gestion Environnementale T. Harris Inc. (GETH) conducted a general Indoor
Air Quality (IAQ) assessment of the selected areas on the 3rd to 9th floors of the Leacock
Building located at 855 Sherbrooke Street West in Montreal, Quebec.
The assessment was performed from November 30th to December 4th 2009 at the request of Mr.
Louis Boissonneault, Project Manager at GENIVAR. This evaluation was conducted in order to
determine the quality of air following the replacement of two ventilation units that serve the 3rd
to 9th floors.
A range of measurements was taken within the areas under study. These included thermal
comfort parameters: temperature (T) and percent relative humidity (%RH); air quality
parameters: carbon dioxide (CO2), carbon monoxide (CO) and respirable suspended particulates
(RSP).
2.
AIR QUALITY STANDARDS AND GUIDELINES
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems for buildings are designed to provide
good air quality and thermal comfort at a reasonable energy cost. Good air quality refers to
adequate oxygen levels, removal of CO2 resulting from human respiration, and dilution/removal
of contaminants, including odours. Thermal comfort is typically defined as an environment in
which at least 80% of normally clothed occupants engaged in sedentary or near-sedentary
activities, feel comfortable. Environmental factors contributing to thermal comfort include air
temperature, radiant heat load, relative humidity, and air velocity.
At the present time, there are no legally enforceable standards for indoor air pollutants in
residential and institutional buildings, and non-industrial workplaces in Canada. However,
various organizations have published guidelines for evaluating indoor air quality. These air
quality guidelines specify maximum concentrations and exposure times for specific contaminants
in indoor and outdoor environments.
McGill University
Leacock Building
December 2009
INDOOR AIR QUALITY ASSESSMENT

3rd to 9th Floors
The Federal-Provincial Advisory Committee on Environment and Occupational Health, under
the auspices of Health Canada, established acceptable IAQ guidelines for known indoor air
contaminants in two guidelines titled Exposure Guidelines for Residential Indoor Air Quality
(1995) and Indoor Air Quality in Office Buildings: A Technical Guide (1995), setting out
permissible ranges of airborne concentrations for selected substances. The Exposure Guidelines
for Residential Indoor Air Quality includes an acceptable long-term exposure range (ALTER)
that specifies the concentration of a given substance individuals may be exposed to throughout a
lifetime without affecting their health. Similarly, an acceptable short-term exposure range
(ASTER) defines the concentration of a substance to which people can be safely exposed to
within a specified time.
The Indoor Air Quality in Office Buildings: A Technical Guide stipulates that the generally
accepted guidelines for ventilation and indoor air quality are the American Society of Heating,
Refrigerating, and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE), Standard 55-2004, Thermal
Environmental Conditions for Human Occupancy, and ASHRAE Standard 62.1-2007,
Ventilation for Acceptable Indoor Air Quality. These standards give recommended guidelines for
thermal comfort parameters, and specific chemical contaminants in mechanically ventilated
buildings.
ASHRAE Standard 62.1-2007 also recommends outdoor air mechanical ventilation rates for
typical office buildings. Under this standard, the recommended outdoor air ventilation rate is
17 CFM (cubic feet per minute) per person for a typical office space, based on an estimated
maximum occupancy of five (5) people per 1,000 ft2. At this ventilation rate, a steady-state CO2
concentration of no greater than about 600 ppm above outdoor levels develops in an occupied
space with the assumption that make-up air is of satisfactory quality, and outside CO2
concentrations are in the 300 to 500 ppm range.
For the purpose of the current IAQ assessment, an average outside CO2 concentration of 350
ppm was used. Therefore, a guideline CO2 concentration of 950 ppm (a concentration of 600
ppm above the average outside CO2 concentration) would indicate an adequate supply of fresh
outside air at a ventilation rate of 17 cfm per person occupying a typical office space. Even
though this ventilation rate can be considered acceptable for a typical office environment, certain
airborne contaminants may be relatively higher depending on their content in the fresh outdoor
air introduced. Therefore in some buildings, indoor air quality may not meet all the requirements
of the ASHRAE standard.
Gestion Environnementale T. Harris Inc.
McGill University
Leacock Building
December 2009

3rd to 9th Floors
Quebec Provincial RROHS - Regulation Respecting Occupational Health and Safety
(Rglement sur la sant et la scurit du travail RSST) L.R.Q., c. S-2.1, r.19.01, establishes
requirements regarding ventilation and heating.
Table I summarizes IAQ guidelines, which were used in the interpretation of our sampling data.
For reference, IAQ guidelines published by the World Health Organization (WHO) are also
included. The WHO guidelines do not differentiate between outdoor and indoor air quality, and
are aimed at protecting the health of the general population including sensitive population
subgroups such as the elderly and asthmatics.
TABLE I
Indoor Air Quality Guidelines
Parameter
Units
WHO
RSST
L.R.Q.
TWAEV
20
(Office)
3,500
5,000
35
10 000 (as
total dust)
Health Canada
ASHRAE
ASTER
ALTER
Thermal Comfort
Temperature
20-24 (Winter)
23-25.5 (Summer)
30-80
(Summer)
30-55
(Winter1)
General IAQ
Relative Humidity
30-60
Carbon Dioxide
ppm
600 (at 17 CFM)

above exterior
CO2 concentration
Carbon Monoxide
ppm
9 (8 hr.)
35 (1 hr.)
11 (8 hr.)
25 (1 hr.)
10 (8 hr.)
25 (1 hr.)
50 (30 min.)
90 (15 min.)
Respirable
Particulates
g/m3
50 (annual)2
150 (24 hr.)
100 (1 hr.)3
403
Notes: - None established; 1 unless constrained by window condensation; 2 for particles 10 m or smaller;
3
for particles 2.5 m.
McGill University
Leacock Building
December 2009

3rd to 9th Floors
TABLE II
Limits on Temperature Drifts and Ramps1
Time Period Maximum Temperature Change Allowed (oC)
0.25 hr.
1.1
0.5 hr.
1.7
1 hr.
2.2
2 hr.
2.8
4 hr.
3.3
1
Drift refers to passive temperature changes; Ramp refers to actively controlled temperature changes.
McGill University
Leacock Building
December 2009

3rd to 9th Floors
3.
METHODS
3.1
Investigated Areas
The indoor air quality assessment was performed in selected rooms throughout the 3rd to 9th
floors. The assessment was performed mainly in offices, but measurements were also taken in at
least one class room on each floor.
3.2
Thermal Comfort and IAQ Parameters
Measurements of temperature, relative humidity, carbon dioxide (CO2) and carbon monoxide
(CO) were taken using a TSI Q-Trak IAQ Monitor (Models 8551 and 8554). This instrument has
four separate sensors (one for each parameter).
Airborne particulate measurements were taken using a TSI Dust-Trak Aerosol Monitor (Model
8520). This device instantaneously measures average, minimum and maximum particle
concentrations for particles between 0.1 and 10 m in diameter, with a measuring range of 10
g/m3 to 100 mg/m3. Air sampling was conducted at a flow rate of 1.7 litre per minute (lpm). A
10 mm diameter nylon cyclone, attached to the sampling port was employed, in order to measure
the respirable fraction from the total airborne dust sampled. The cyclone, at a flow rate of
1.7 lpm, cuts off particles greater than 4 m in diameter.
The above instruments were calibrated according to manufacturer instructions.
Spot testing for IAQ parameters was conducted three times throughout the day for a total of 47
sample locations including one exterior location. Measurements were taken in sufficient numbers
in order to determine if any significant differences in air quality parameters occurred from
location to location and during different periods of the day.
Continuous monitoring for IAQ parameters was conducted over a 24-hour period in three
locations on each floor (3rd to 9th floors) and consisted of recording measured parameters every
minute. Maximum, minimum and average values for each parameter were calculated.
Continuous monitoring locations were chosen according to information we received from the
employees in the weeks prior to our assessment.
McGill University
Leacock Building
December 2009

3rd to 9th Floors
4.
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
4.1
Thermal Comfort and IAQ Parameters
Spot Testing
The results of IAQ spot testing performed in selected rooms on November 30th 2009 are
summarized in the following charts. The charts show the average results for each IAQ parameter
measured on the 3rd to 9th floors. Detailed results for each room are shown in Tables I to VII in
Appendix I.
Carbon Dioxide (CO2)
1000
ASHRAE
900
800
702
700
656
Concentration (ppm)
633
670
649
627
610
600
500
400
300
200
100
0
3
Floor
Chart No. 1: Spot Testing Results for Carbon Dioxide (CO2)

3rd to 9th Floors, November 30th 2009
ChartrdNo. 1th shows that the average carbon dioxide concentrations (610-702 ppm) measured on
the 3 to 9 floors are below the ASHRAE guideline (950 ppm i.e. 600 ppm (at 17 CFM) above
outdoor CO2 concentration).
McGill University
Leacock Building
December 2009

3rd to 9th Floors
Overall (with few exceptions), the CO2 levels were noted to be higher in the afternoon than in the
morning.
Carbon Monoxide (CO)
10
ASHRAE
9
Concentration (ppm)
1
0
0,1
0,1
0
Floor
Chart No. 2: Spot Testing Results for Carbon Monoxide (CO)

Chart No. 2 shows that the average carbon monoxide concentrations (0-0.1 ppm) measured on
the 3rd to 9th floors are below the ASHRAE guideline for an 8-hour period (9 ppm).
McGill University
Leacock Building
December 2009

3rd to 9th Floors
o
Temperature ( C)
25
24,4
24,5
Temperature (oC)
24
ASHRAE
23,5
23,5
23,3
23,2
23
22,9
22,9
22,5
22,5
22
21,5
3
Floor
Chart No. 3: Spot Testing Results for Temperature

Chart No. 3 shows that the average temperature measured on the 4th floor (24.4oC) is slightly
higher than the ASHRAE maximum temperature guideline for winter months (24oC). The
average temperatures measured on the remaining floors (22.5-23.5oC) are within ASRAE
recommended temperature range for winter months (20-24 oC).
As can be seen in Tables II to V in Appendix I, temperatures measured in the morning on the 4th,
5th, 6th and 7th floors were all higher than the ASHRAE maximum temperature guideline for
winter months (24oC).
Drifts between morning and afternoon temperatures were observed on the 4th, 5th, 6th and 7th
floors. Temperature drifts should not exceed 3.3oC over a 4-hour period. On the 8th floor,
afternoon measurements that were taken less than one hour from each other show temperature
drifts exceeding 2.2oC (the limit for a 1-hour period).
Temperatures remained relatively constant over the day in most rooms on the 3rd and 9th floors.
McGill University
Leacock Building
December 2009

3rd to 9th Floors
Fluctuations in the temperature (that are not under the control of the occupants) may affect the
thermal comfort of occupants (ASHRAE, 2007).
Relative Humidity (%)

80
70
60
ASHRAE
50
40
30
26
23
25
26
25
24
24
RROHS
20
10
0
3
Floor
Chart No. 4: Spot Testing Results for Relative Humidity

Chart No. 4 shows that the average relative humidity levels (23-26%) measured on the 3rd to 9th
floors are below the ASHRAE guidelines (30-60%) for all floors. However, results are above the
minimum relative humidity level of 20% for office spaces established by the RROHS.
Low relative humidity levels may affect the comfort of occupants by causing symptoms such as
irritation of mucus membranes.
McGill University
Leacock Building
December 2009

3rd to 9th Floors
3
Respirable Suspended Particulates (g/m )

60
50
ASHRAE
Concentration (g/m3)
40
30
20
10
3
0
9
Floor
Chart No. 5: Spot Testing Results for Respirable Suspended Particulates (RSP)
Chart No. 5 shows that the average concentrations of respirable suspended particulates (RSP)
(2-3 g/m3) measured on the 3rd to 9th floors are below the ASHRAE guideline (50 g/m3).
10
McGill University
Leacock Building
December 2009

3rd to 9th Floors
Continuous Monitoring
The results of continuous monitoring for IAQ parameters performed in selected rooms from
November 30th to December 4th 2009 are summarized in the following charts. The charts show
the average results for each IAQ parameter measured in the selected rooms over a 24-hour
period. Detailed results for each room (average, minimum and maximum values) are shown in
Table VIII in Appendix I. Graphical representation of the results for each room is shown in
Appendix II. Sample location is shown in Appendix III.
Carbon Dioxide (CO2)
1000
ASHRAE
950
900
850
800
750
Concentration (ppm)
700
650
600
550
500
482
473
441
450
435
400
453
436
482
471
427
410
445
422
394
370
449
426
398
407
376
350
329
319
732
812
300
250
200
150
100
50
0
307
318
324
422
432 443C 509
534
539
608
621
633
718
723
832
833
919
923
943
Room
Chart No. 6: Continuous monitoring for Carbon Dioxide (CO2)

3rd to 9th Floors, November 30th-December 4th 2009
Note: Average CO2 concentration for room 307 is based on an 11-hour monitoring since the device was unplugged
during sampling.
Chart No. 6 shows that the average carbon dioxide concentrations (319-482 ppm) measured over
a 24-hour period in selected rooms are below the ASHRAE guideline (950 ppm i.e. 600 ppm (at
17 CFM) above outdoor CO2 concentration).
11
McGill University
Leacock Building
December 2009

3rd to 9th Floors
Based on the charts shown in Appendix II, CO2 concentrations were noted to be highest around
15:00 in most rooms.
Carbon Monoxide (CO)

10
ASHRAE
9
Concentration (ppm)
2
1
1
0
307
318
324
422
534
539
621
633
718
723
732
812
832
833
919
923
943
0
432 443C 509
608
Room
Chart No. 7: Continuous monitoring for Carbon Monoxide (CO)

Chart No. 7 shows that the average carbon monoxide concentrations (0-1 ppm) measured over a
24-hour period in selected rooms are below the ASHRAE guideline for an 8-hour period
(9 ppm).
12
McGill University
Leacock Building
December 2009

3rd to 9th Floors
o
Temperature ( C)
35
29,3
30
27,7
26,3
26,5
25,6
25
25,4
25,3
22,8
24,7
24,1
23,9 23,9
23
22,5
ASHRAE
20,9 21,2
21,3
Temperature (oC)
26,1
21,3
20,4 20,6
20
15
10
0
307
318
324
422
432 443C 509
534
539
608
621
633
718
723
732
812
832
833
919
923
943
Room
Chart No. 8: Continuous Monitoring for Temperature

Chart No. 8 shows that the average temperatures measured over a 24-hour period in rooms 318,
324, 443C, 539, 608, 718, 732, 812, 923 and 943 (24.1-29.3oC) are above the ASHRAE
maximum temperature guideline for winter months (24 oC). The average temperatures measured
in the remaining rooms (20.4-23.9oC) are within ASHRAE recommended temperature range for
winter months (20-24 oC).
Based on the charts shown in Appendix II, temperatures were noted to be relatively constant
during office hours with changes of 2oC or less over the day in most rooms.
Drops in temperatures, with a rise in relative humidity have been observed in some rooms (e.g.
432, 443C, 509, 621 and 718). All these rooms have opening windows. The sudden changes may
be related to the opening of the windows.
In room 633, high temperatures (25-30oC) were noted around 13:00 and a drop in relative
humidity was also noted around the same time (see chart No 23 in Appendix II).
13
McGill University
Leacock Building
December 2009

3rd to 9th Floors
In room 832, temperature went from 21oC to 26oC in less then 3 hours (between 9:00 and 12:00).
A drop in relative humidity was noted at the same time (see chart No. 33 in Appendix II). This
drift exceeds the limit for a 4-hour period (3.3oC).
80
70
60
ASHRAE
50
45
46
42
40
37
38
37
36
34
39
44
40
39
37
33
31
30
30
25
22
22
RROHS
20
11
10
318
324
10
0
307
422
432 443C 509
534
539
608
621
633
718
723
732
812
832
833
919
923
943
Room
Chart No. 9: Continuous Monitoring for Relative Humidity

Chart No. 9 shows that the average relative humidity levels measured over a 24-hour period in
rooms 307, 318, 324, 443C and 923 (10-25%) are below the ASHRAE recommended range (3060%). However, relative humidity levels measured in rooms 307, 443C and 923 (22-25%) are
above the minimum relative humidity level of 20% for office spaces established by the RROHS.
Humidity levels measured in rooms 318 and 324 are below the minimum relative humidity level
of 20% for office spaces established by the RROHS. Relative humidity levels measured in the
remaining rooms (30-46%) are within ASHRAE recommended range (30-60%).
14
McGill University
Leacock Building
December 2009

3rd to 9th Floors
3
Respirable Suspended Particulates (g/m )

60
ASHRAE
50
44
Concentration (g/m3)
40
30
21
20
13
13
12
11
9
10
7
3
8
6
5
3
0
307
318
324
422
432 443C 509
534
539
608
621
633
718
723
732
812
832
833
919
923
943
Room
Chart No. 10: Continuous Monitoring for Respirable Suspended Particulates (RSP)
Note: Average RSP concentration for room 307 is based on a 20-hour monitoring since the device was unplugged
during sampling.
Chart No. 10 shows that the average concentrations of respirable suspended particulates (RSP)
(2-44 g/m3) measured over a 24-hour period are below the ASHRAE guideline (50 g/m3) in
all rooms. The average concentration for room 422 is unavailable due to a malfunction of the
device. The maximum concentration recorded for this room is 23 g/m3.
15
McGill University
Leacock Building
December 2009

3rd to 9th Floors
Results of the continuous monitoring are consistent with the results of the spot testing for IAQ
parameters and the following observations can be made:
Average carbon dioxide (CO2) concentrations are all below the ASHRAE guideline
concentration (950 ppm i.e. 600 ppm (at 17 CFM) above outdoor CO2 concentration) and
show that the rooms are receiving an adequate supply of fresh air.
Average carbon monoxide (CO) concentrations were all below the ASHRAE guideline for an
8-hour period (9 ppm).
Average temperatures measured in some rooms (318, 324, 443C, 539, 608, 718, 732, 812,
923 and 943) are above the ASHRAE maximum temperature guideline for winter months
(24 oC).
Temperatures above the ASHRAE maximum temperature guideline for winter months
(24 oC) were observed in most of the locations tested (see maximum values in Tables I to
VIII in Appendix I).
minimum relative humidity level of 20% for office spaces established by the RROHS. Most
of the rooms tested over a 24-hour period also meet the ASHRAE recommended range for
relative humidity (30-60%).
Average respirable suspended particulates (RSP) concentrations are all below the ASHRAE
guideline (50 g/m3).
The following information was gathered during the assessment:
Some rooms (located on the corners of the building) have opening windows, but the majority
has non-opening windows.
Room 324 (computer laboratory) was originally a larger room and no change in the
ventilation system has been made since the room changed layout.
16
McGill University
Leacock Building
December 2009

3rd to 9th Floors
Outdoor Conditions
Table III shows the average temperature and relative humidity based on hourly data from
Environment Canada (between 12:00 and 12:00) during the IAQ assessment performed from
November 30th to December 4th 2009.
TABLE III
Outdoor Temperature and Relative Humidity
November 30th December 4th 2009
Date
th
Nov. 30 Dec. 1st
Dec. 1st Dec. 2nd
Dec. 2nd Dec. 3rd
Dec. 3rd Dec. 4th
Temp. (oC)
-0.3
1.4
5.7
4.7
RH (%)
75
84
84
81
Table IV shows the respirable suspended particulates (RSP) concentrations measured on the days
the assessment was performed.
TABLE IV
Outdoor Concentrations for Respirable Suspended Particulates (RSP)
November 30th December 4th 2009
Date
November 30th
December 1st
December 2nd
December 3rd
December 4th
1
RSP (g/m3)1
11
16
22
6
9
Measured around 12:00
17
McGill University
Leacock Building
December 2009

3rd to 9th Floors
5.
CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
While the quantity of air supplied to a work area is vital for diluting odours and other
contaminants, indoor air quality complaints may be related to thermal comfort rather than
contaminant levels. Temperature and relative humidity can play a role in how people perceive
their indoor environment. Thermal comfort is a function of temperature, relative humidity and air
motion.
The level of carbon dioxide (CO2) present in an occupied space is a good indicator of adequate
ventilation rates. Under the ASHRAE guideline, the recommended maximum carbon dioxide
(CO2) concentrations are 600 ppm above the outside concentrations for ventilation rate of 17
CFM of outside air.
Average carbon dioxide (CO2) concentrations measured in the Leacock Building are below the
ASHRAE guideline concentration (950 ppm) in all the locations tested. These results indicate
that all the locations are receiving adequate quantities of fresh air to control the build-up of
contaminants. Under these conditions, contaminants generated in the space under normal
conditions should not build up to concentrations expected to impact on occupant comfort or
health.
Average carbon monoxide (CO) concentrations remained below the ASHRAE guideline for an
8-hour period (9 ppm) in all locations tested. Therefore, this should not represent a health
concern to the building occupants.
The average temperatures recorded in rooms 318, 324, 443C, 539, 608, 718, 732, 812, 923 and
943 (24.1-29.3oC) are higher than the thermal comfort range of 20 to 24C as derived for winter
season from the ASHRAE recommended temperature ranges. Spot testing, along with maximum
temperature values recorded during continuous monitoring, show that temperatures above the
ASHRAE maximum temperature guideline for winter months (24 oC) were observed in most of
the locations tested.
Drifts in temperatures were observed mainly from the 4th to the 8th floors (notably in room 832).
Temperature drifts should not exceed the limits established by ASHRAE (see Table II).
Temperatures higher than the thermal comfort range, along with fluctuations in the temperature
(that are not under the control of the occupants) can play a role in how people perceive their
indoor environment. Temperatures should be maintained within the thermal comfort range of
20 to 24C as derived for winter season from the ASHRAE recommended temperature ranges.
minimum relative humidity level of 20% for office spaces established by the RROHS. Most of
the rooms tested over a 24-hour period also meet the ASHRAE recommended range for relative
18
McGill University
Leacock Building
December 2009

3rd to 9th Floors
humidity (30-60%). The majority of building occupants should feel comfortable under these
conditions.
At low humidity conditions, some occupants may experience discomfort due to drying of the
skin and mucous membranes. Low relative humidity can cause other particles in the air to
become more irritating. Additional humidification may be necessary in order to increase relative
humidity levels within recommended comfort ranges in rooms 318 and 324.
Average respirable suspended particulates (RSP) concentrations are below the ASHRAE
guideline (50 g/m3) in all locations tested. Therefore, individuals working in these areas should
not experience discomfort at the RSP concentrations measured.
Continuous monitoring results agree well with spot testing results and indicate that during
normal building operation, the quality of air within the locations tested should not represent a
health concern to building occupants and that the complaints may be related to thermal comfort
rather than contaminant levels.
RECOMMENDATIONS
Based on the results of the IAQ assessment performed in Leacock Building from November 30th
to December 4th 2009, GETH makes the following recommendations in order to improve the
comfort of the occupants:
Maintain temperature within ASHRAE guidelines, i.e. between 20 and 24oC for winter
months.
Avoid drifts in temperature exceeding the limits established by ASHRAE (see Table II).
Maintain relative humidity levels within ASHRAE guidelines, i.e. between 30 and 60%.
19
McGill University
Leacock Building
December 2009

3rd to 9th Floors
6.
LIMITATIONS
The investigations, assessments and recommendations detailed in this report were carried out in a
manner consistent with the level of care and skill normally exercised by reasonable members of
the environmental and industrial hygiene consulting profession currently practicing under similar
conditions in the area. There are no warranties, expressed or implied, that apply to the
professional services provided under the terms of our assignment and included in this report.
In preparing this report, Gestion Environnementale T. Harris Inc. relied on information supplied
by independent laboratories and testing services. Except as expressly set out in this report, we
have not made any independent verification of such information.
The investigation, assessments and recommendations in this report have been made in the
context of existing industry accepted guidelines that were in place at the date of this report. The
investigation did not take account of any government regulations not in effect or not generally
promulgated at the date of this report.
The collection of samples at the Site was consistent with the scope of work agreed upon with the
person or entity to whom this report is addressed and the information obtained concerning prior
site investigations. As conditions between samples may vary, the potential remains for the
presence of unknown additional contaminants for which there were no known indicators.
This report is for the sole use of the person or entity to whom it is addressed. No other person or
entity is entitled to use or rely upon this report.
20
APPENDIX I
Detailed Results
McGill University
Leacock Building
December 2009

3rd to 9th Floors
TABLE I
Spot Testing Results for IAQ Parameters - 3rd Floor
McGill University Leacock Building
November 30th 2009
No.
Sample location
Time
CO2
(ppm)
CO
(ppm)
Temp.
(C)
R.H.
(%)
RSP
3
(g/m )
rd
3 Floor
313
(N)
10:41
551
23.1
23.7
13:44
603
24.3
21.8
588
23.4
22.2
522
22.6
22.4
14:51
10:43
2
314
(NE corner)
321E
(S)
13:47
586
23.2
21.3
14:56
545
22.9
20.3
10:13
642
23.1
28.6
665
24.4
20.4
10:32
654
23.4
22.6
13:40
755
23.7
23.0
730
21.7
25.6
592
21.4
24.3
13:38
-
328
(W)
14:45
10:35
5
331
(corner)
Hall
13:51
580
21.4
23.0
14:41
557
21.0
22.2
10:19
638
22.9
26.4
760
24.5
22.5
13:25
798
22.2
26.4
Average
633
22.9
23.3
Minimum
522
21.0
20.3
Maximum
798
24.5
26.4
14:48
McGill University
Leacock Building
December 2009

3rd to 9th Floors
TABLE II
Spot Testing Results for IAQ Parameters 4th Floor
November 30th 2009
No.
Sample
Location
Time
CO2
(ppm)
CO
(ppm)
Temp.
(C)
R.H.
(%)
RSP
3
(g/m )
th
4 Floor
414
(NE corner)
420
427
(SE corner)
429
(S)
439
(W)
443B
(NW corner)
Hall
10:14
817
26.3
27.7
13:14
799
23.5
27.4
14:15
737
23.0
26.5
10:28
602
27.0
23.3
13:16
791
23.7
27.9
14:18
761
0.2
23.5
26.4
10:16
823
24.9
25.3
13:18
717
0.1
23.4
26.5
14:20
704
23.5
26.6
10:19
601
25.7
24.6
10:22
514
26.4
23.0
13:21
801
0.1
23.2
26.6
14:22
661
23.4
25.8
10:24
589
26.7
23.3
13:11
626
23.2
27.3
14:14
715
22.8
26.9
10:26
595
26.9
23.3
13:13
621
23.3
27.1
14:16
869
23.3
26.4
Average
702
24.4
25.9
Minimum
514
22.8
23.0
Maximum
869
0.2
27.0
27.9
McGill University
Leacock Building
December 2009

3rd to 9th Floors
TABLE III
November 30th 2009
No.
Sample
Location
Time
CO2
(ppm)
CO
(ppm)
Temp.
(C)
R.H.
(%)
RSP
3
(g/m )
th
5 Floor
514
(E)
520
521
(E)
525
(S)
528
(SW corner)
10:42
529
25.6
22.7
13:30
633
0.3
22.4
25.6
14:32
673
22.7
25.0
10:46
578
26.1
23.3
13:32
827
0.1
22.2
28.0
14:33
1011
22.8
30.8
10:39
595
25.6
23.4
13:33
609
0.2
21.9
26.4
14:35
690
22.6
26.0
10:38
676
25.4
23.2
13:36
592
21.9
26.3
14:37
660
22.0
26.1
10:35
522
24.8
21.0
13:37
556
18.7
26.4
14:39
571
19.3
24.6
10:33
589
26.8
22.1
13:25
664
23.0
26.3
14:29
712
0.1
22.2
25.1
10:26
595
26.9
23.3
13:13
621
23.3
27.1
14:16
869
23.3
26.4
Average
656
23.3
25.2
Minimum
522
18.7
21.0
Maximum
1011
0.3
26.9
30.8
543
(N)
Hall
McGill University
Leacock Building
December 2009

3rd to 9th Floors
TABLE IV
November 30th 2009
No.
Sample
Location
Time
CO2
(ppm)
CO
(ppm)
Temp.
(C)
R.H.
(%)
RSP
3
(g/m )
th
6 Floor
609
(NE corner)
614
615
(E)
623
(S)
626
(SW corner)
638
(NW corner)
Hall
10:51
608
26.3
23.0
13:41
731
21.7
29.1
14:41
660
21.8
26.0
10:57
651
26.7
23.5
13:46
730
0.1
22.4
28.1
14:46
681
22.5
26.6
10:52
545
26.5
22.6
13:44
663
0.2
22.2
28.1
14:44
651
22.2
26.3
11:00
556
26.0
21.9
13:49
644
0.4
21.9
28.0
14:48
606
22.0
25.4
11:01
589
26.3
22.0
13:55
629
0.3
21.9
27.2
14:50
648
21.4
26.1
10:49
595
26.1
22.7
13:43
613
21.9
27.8
14:43
621
22.1
25.8
10:58
627
26.6
22.7
13:47
1307
0.4
22.2
28.2
14:47
706
22.5
26.4
Average
670
0.1
23.5
25.6
Minimum
545
21.4
21.9
Maximum
1307
0.4
26.7
28.2
McGill University
Leacock Building
December 2009

3rd to 9th Floors
TABLE V
November 30th 2009
No.
Sample
Location
Time
CO2
(ppm)
CO
(ppm)
Temp.
(C)
R.H.
(%)
RSP
3
(g/m )
th
7 Floor
704
710
(NE corner)
714
(E)
725
(SW corner)
737
(NW corner)
738
(N)
Hall
11:21
721
26.7
24.4
14:10
730
0.1
21.5
28.7
15:08
674
22.4
26.5
11:05
624
25.8
22.7
13:57
655
0.1
20.2
28.5
14:51
654
20.6
26.0
11:17
602
26.4
22.9
14:09
663
0.4
21.0
27.9
15:03
760
22.6
25.7
11:14
537
25.4
22.1
14:07
540
20.4
25.9
15:01
625
21.4
24.3
11:09
559
25.8
23.1
14:02
630
0.1
22.4
27.1
14:57
575
22.3
25.5
11:07
621
24.9
22.5
13:59
590
0.1
20.2
26.3
14:54
574
20.0
26.1
11:12
723
26.2
23.4
14:05
832
0.1
22.8
26.6
15:00
733
22.3
26.1
Average
649
0.1
22.9
25.3
Minimum
537
20.0
22.1
Maximum
832
26.7
28.7
McGill University
Leacock Building
December 2009

3rd to 9th Floors
TABLE VI
November 30th 2009
No.
Sample
Location
Time
CO2
(ppm)
CO
(ppm)
Temp.
(C)
R.H.
(%)
RSP
3
(g/m )
th
8 Floor
818
(E)
824
(SE corner)
828
(SW corner)
836
11:29
561
23.1
22.9
14:22
586
23.4
21.4
15:15
566
21.0
24.4
11:33
590
22.7
23.2
14:24
565
22.8
21.0
15:18
607
20.7
25.7
11:36
598
22.9
23.1
14:28
569
22.9
21.6
15:19
540
20.7
24.4
11:39
757
23.7
25.6
14:29
646
23.6
24.0
15:22
609
21.4
26.8
11:43
574
22.5
22.9
14:32
577
22.7
21.3
15:12
606
21.0
23.4
11:47
692
24.5
24.5
14:34
767
23.4
24.2
15:13
883
21.1
26.0
Average
627
22.5
23.7
Minimum
540
20.7
21.0
Maximum
883
24.5
26.8
841
(NW corner)
Hall
McGill University
Leacock Building
December 2009

3rd to 9th Floors
TABLE VII
November 30th 2009
No.
Sample
Location
Time
CO2
(ppm)
CO
(ppm)
Temp.
(C)
R.H.
(%)
RSP
3
(g/m )
th
9 Floor
11:24
623
22.9
25.4
14:17
656
23.6
23.5
15:24
646
23.9
21.6
10:47
545
23.7
22.9
14:01
577
24.6
22.1
15:08
641
22.3
26.9
11:05
532
21.0
28.9
14:08
577
23.8
21.5
11:10
543
22.5
25.9
14:11
565
23.6
21.2
15:16
551
23.3
20.9
11:15
544
21.6
25.4
14:14
573
23.4
21.6
15:21
543
23.6
21.0
10:50
684
23.8
25.3
14:05
750
24.3
23.0
15:12
815
23.1
27.3
Average
610
23.2
23.8
Minimum
532
21.0
20.9
Maximum
815
24.6
28.9
908
(N)
912
(NE corner)
925
(SE corner)
929
(SW corner)
940
(W)
Hall
McGill University
Leacock Building
December 2009

3rd to 9th Floors
TABLE VIII
Continuous Monitoring Results for IAQ Parameters
November 30th - December 4th 2009
Sample
Location
CO2 (ppm)
Avg.
Min.
Max.
307
318
324
473
441
482
340
359
306
776
746
808
422
432
443C
435
410
436
372
352
365
873
670
720
509
534
539
370
453
471
300
380
399
737
698
681
608
621
633
427
422
394
366
364
355
770
595
516
718
723
732
398
445
329
316
368
286
652
798
467
Results
CO (ppm)
Temp. (C)
Avg.
Min.
Max.
Avg.
Min.
Max.
3rd Floor November 30th - December 1st 2009
0
0
0
21.3
19.6
22.5
0
0
0.4
26.3
23.5
27.2
0
0
0.1
29.3
24.4
29.9
4th Floor December 1st - December 2nd 2009
0
0
0
22.8
21.4
24.3
0
0
0.1
23.0
22.6
23.7
0
0
0.4
25.6
25.1
26.1
5th Floor December 1st - December 2nd 2009
0
0
0
23.9
21.3
26.1
0
0
1
23.9
23.4
25.9
0
0
0
25.4
24.2
27.1
6th Floor December 2nd - December 3rd 2009
1
0
1
26.5
25.8
27.7
0
0
0
20.9
20.3
22.5
0
0
0.3
21.2
20.3
29.5
7th Floor December 2nd - December 3rd 2009
0
0
0
25.3
24.8
26.4
0
0
0
22.5
22.2
23.8
0
0
0
24.1
23.7
25.4
RSP (g/m3)
Avg.
Min.
Max.
Avg.
R.H. (%)
Min.
Max.
22.0
10.5
10.1
18.7
8.1
7.4
42.5
32.8
33.7
3
9
2
2
5
1
10
35
9
36.9
35.8
22.4
33.5
21.7
19.5
39.0
38.7
26.0
7
21
2
11
23
21
59
34.2
32.8
30.4
14.3
21.4
19.6
38.0
34.8
33.2
6
6
5
2
3
2
51
15
15
37.3
45.2
46.2
33.4
39.8
23.1
41.1
49.2
52.2
13
13
44
3
2
7
22
23
74
38.0
38.5
36.8
34.1
34.6
32.7
43.2
43.3
40.1
11
8
12
1
1
2
21
19
21
McGill University
Leacock Building
December 2009

3rd to 9th Floors
TABLE VIII (continued)
Continuous Monitoring Results for IAQ Parameters
November 30th - December 4th 2009
Sample
Location
CO2 (ppm)
Avg.
Min.
Max.
812
832
833
319
426
376
279
353
332
659
1 066
797
919
923
943
482
449
407
355
348
359
1 009
755
622
Results
CO (ppm)
Temp. (C)
Avg.
Min.
Max.
Avg.
Min.
Max.
8th Floor December 3rd - December 4th 2009
0
0
0
26.1
25.7
26.6
0
0
0
21.3
20.7
26.0
0
0
0
20.4
19.8
24.2
9th Floor December 3rd - December 4th 2009
0
0
0
20.6
20.0
22.1
0
0
0.5
27.7
25.8
27.9
0
0
0
24.7
24.1
26.6
RSP (g/m3)
Avg.
Min.
Max.
Avg.
R.H. (%)
Min.
Max.
31.2
39.4
41.5
25.7
24.3
32.7
40.4
46.3
46.6
4
3
5
2
1
3
10
10
10
43.5
24.7
39.8
39.6
21.6
32.5
47.5
40.5
44.4
4
9
5
2
5
2
11
23
13
McGill University
Leacock Building
December 2009

3rd to 9th Floors

Leacock BLDG Indoor Quality Assess Feb2010

Transféré par

Informations du document

Titre original

Copyright

Formats disponibles

Partager ce document

Partager ou intégrer le document

Options de partage

Avez-vous trouvé ce document utile ?

Ce contenu est-il inapproprié ?

Droits d'auteur :

Formats disponibles

Leacock BLDG Indoor Quality Assess Feb2010

Transféré par

Droits d'auteur :

Formats disponibles

INDOOR AIR QUALITY ASSESSMENT REPORT

Assessment performed: November 30th - December 4th 2009

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS

AIR QUALITY STANDARDS AND GUIDELINES ....................................................... 1

INVESTIGATED AREAS ..................................................................................................... 5

THERMAL COMFORT AND IAQ PARAMETERS .................................................................. 6

CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS....................................................... 18

APPENDIX I Detailed Results

Mr. Louis Boissonneault

Indoor Air Quality Assessment

AIR QUALITY STANDARDS AND GUIDELINES

INDOOR AIR QUALITY ASSESSMENT

Gestion Environnementale T. Harris Inc.

INDOOR AIR QUALITY ASSESSMENT

600 (at 17 CFM)

Gestion Environnementale T. Harris Inc.

INDOOR AIR QUALITY ASSESSMENT

Gestion Environnementale T. Harris Inc.

INDOOR AIR QUALITY ASSESSMENT

Thermal Comfort and IAQ Parameters

Gestion Environnementale T. Harris Inc.

INDOOR AIR QUALITY ASSESSMENT

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Thermal Comfort and IAQ Parameters

Chart No. 1: Spot Testing Results for Carbon Dioxide (CO2)

Gestion Environnementale T. Harris Inc.

INDOOR AIR QUALITY ASSESSMENT

Chart No. 2: Spot Testing Results for Carbon Monoxide (CO)

Gestion Environnementale T. Harris Inc.

INDOOR AIR QUALITY ASSESSMENT

Chart No. 3: Spot Testing Results for Temperature

INDOOR AIR QUALITY ASSESSMENT

Relative Humidity (%)

Relative Humidity (%)

Chart No. 4: Spot Testing Results for Relative Humidity

Gestion Environnementale T. Harris Inc.

INDOOR AIR QUALITY ASSESSMENT

Respirable Suspended Particulates (g/m )

Gestion Environnementale T. Harris Inc.

INDOOR AIR QUALITY ASSESSMENT

432 443C 509

Chart No. 6: Continuous monitoring for Carbon Dioxide (CO2)

Gestion Environnementale T. Harris Inc.

INDOOR AIR QUALITY ASSESSMENT

Carbon Monoxide (CO)

Chart No. 7: Continuous monitoring for Carbon Monoxide (CO)

Gestion Environnementale T. Harris Inc.

INDOOR AIR QUALITY ASSESSMENT

432 443C 509

Chart No. 8: Continuous Monitoring for Temperature

INDOOR AIR QUALITY ASSESSMENT

Relative Humidity (%)

432 443C 509

Chart No. 9: Continuous Monitoring for Relative Humidity

Gestion Environnementale T. Harris Inc.

INDOOR AIR QUALITY ASSESSMENT

Respirable Suspended Particulates (g/m )

432 443C 509

Gestion Environnementale T. Harris Inc.

INDOOR AIR QUALITY ASSESSMENT

The following information was gathered during the assessment:

Gestion Environnementale T. Harris Inc.