Protect porous or fibrous materials such as carpet from absorbing VOCs until installed. Keep the work area dry so porous materials do not absorb moisture. Clean dust immediately following construction activity. Keep containers closed when not in use. VENTILATION Seal off air supplies and returns to protect the ventilation system components from contamination, OR thoroughly clean ductwork and ventilation components prior to occupancy. Provide a continuous minimum ventilation rate of 1 air change per hour during construction, OR conduct a for three days at 100% outside air, after construction ends and prior to occupancy. Provide a minimum of MERV 4 filtration on return air system if operated during construction, and replace filter(s) prior to occupancy. During installation of carpet, primer, paints, adhesives, furnishings, and VOC-emitting products, provide supplemental ventilation for at least 72 hours after work is completed. Preferred HVAC system operation is supply air only, with exhaust provided through windows. Use exhaust fans to pull exhaust air from deep interior locations. Stair towers and other paths to exterior can be useful during this process. WORKER PROTECTION Provide N-95 or better dust masks to workers who are generating dust or particulates, such as deconstruction or sanding drywall or wood. Require VOC-safe respirator masks for workers installing any product that contains over 150 grams per liter of VOCs. EXECUTION Conduct regular inspection and maintenance of indoor air quality measures including ventilation system protection and ventilation rate. Use safe, cleaning supplies for surfaces, equipment, and workers’ personal use. Use wet sanding for gypsum assemblies. Allow dry sanding only if dust protection is provided. Use safety meetings, signage, and subcontractor agreements to communicate the goals of the indoor air quality construction plan. Source: City of Portland Planning and Sustainability— Additional resources: City of Seattle Office of Sustainability & Environment— Whole Building Design Guide—
Protect porous or fibrous materials such as carpet from absorbing VOCs until installed. Keep the work area dry so porous materials do not absorb moisture. Clean dust immediately following construction activity. Keep containers closed when not in use. VENTILATION Seal off air supplies and returns to protect the ventilation system components from contamination, OR thoroughly clean ductwork and ventilation components prior to occupancy. Provide a continuous minimum ventilation rate of 1 air change per hour during construction, OR conduct a for three days at 100% outside air, after construction ends and prior to occupancy. Provide a minimum of MERV 4 filtration on return air system if operated during construction, and replace filter(s) prior to occupancy. During installation of carpet, primer, paints, adhesives, furnishings, and VOC-emitting products, provide supplemental ventilation for at least 72 hours after work is completed. Preferred HVAC system operation is supply air only, with exhaust provided through windows. Use exhaust fans to pull exhaust air from deep interior locations. Stair towers and other paths to exterior can be useful during this process. WORKER PROTECTION Provide N-95 or better dust masks to workers who are generating dust or particulates, such as deconstruction or sanding drywall or wood. Require VOC-safe respirator masks for workers installing any product that contains over 150 grams per liter of VOCs. EXECUTION Conduct regular inspection and maintenance of indoor air quality measures including ventilation system protection and ventilation rate. Use safe, cleaning supplies for surfaces, equipment, and workers’ personal use. Use wet sanding for gypsum assemblies. Allow dry sanding only if dust protection is provided. Use safety meetings, signage, and subcontractor agreements to communicate the goals of the indoor air quality construction plan. Source: City of Portland Planning and Sustainability— Additional resources: City of Seattle Office of Sustainability & Environment— Whole Building Design Guide—
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