Flush
with Full Outdoor Air for Seven Days
Prior to Occupancy to Protect Occupants
When
possible, flush newly built spaces with full outdoor
air for seven days prior to occupancy, after final
paint touch-up and floor-covering installation.
Use the full air capacity of the HVAC system or
at least 2.5 ACH (air changes per hour), provided
by temporary fans if necessary. If possible, do
the flush-out before furniture installation, to
avoid pollutants being adsorbed into furniture
and released later.
There
is a small construction management and electricity
cost for a flush-out. However, it is an important
step for protecting the health of occupants and
reducing complaints during the critical early
occupancy period. It helps to avoid sick time,
disability leave and potential lawsuits.
If
the buildings' HVAC system is used, replace or
clean filters after the flush, and prior to occupancy.
Cautions:
- HVAC
systems with minimal outdoor air capacity often
require supplemental temporary fans; most with
"economizer" capacity can pro-vide
2.5 ACH.
- If
the occupant is on a very tight moving schedule,
the extra time before moving in may be costly.
Benefits and potential consequences should be
considered carefully.
- A
flush-out will have minimal effect on materials
with prolonged emissions, such as rubber flooring,
carpet backing and wood products with formaldehyde
glue.
