ORLANDO, Fla. - The Air Movement & Control Association (AMCA) joined with Munters to address the problem of mold in schools by hosting a presentation at the 2005 International Air-Conditioning, Heating, Refrigerating Exposition (AHR Expo) titled "Preventing IAQ and Moisture Problems in Schools and Commercial Buildings." The event featured five prominent speakers who covered different aspects of the issue.

Steve Wilson, director of indoor air quality labs at Texas Tech University, shared facts about mold and the risks involved.

Teresa Williams, attorney for Haliczer Pettis Law Firm in Florida, offered legal considerations for engineers and school professionals who could become involved in a lawsuit or appeal as a result of a dispute, including prevention and settlement. "My biggest advice is do not wait," Williams said. "In the jury system, kids are sympathetic figures. Get an IAQ plan before you need it, not after."

Lew Harriman, author of Humidity Control Design Guide for Commercial and Institutional Buildings, described the basics of HVAC design technology and how to avoid IAQ and mold problems in schools and commercial buildings.

Bill Holder, co-founder of Assured Indoor Air Quality, conducted the baseline methodology and standard protocol for evaluating indoor environments.

In conclusion, Chuck Campbell, vice president and general manager of Munters, gave recommendations designed to prevent mold in schools. The recommendations included: dehumidify the outside air before it enters the building; pressurize the building; provide air drier than desired space conditions; separate sensible and latent loads using equipment designed for each; avoid cool reheat systems; and design HVAC systems to meet both sensible and latent design conditions.

Publication date: 02/28/2005