Investigating IAQ complaints after renovations at an office building in New York City.

Describes an investigation of the indoor air quality of a music company at their New York City office. The office was on the 31st floor of a block. Recommendations for producing better IAQ were as follows: 1) Recalibrate return airflows where needed to harmonise them with the values specified in the HVAC system design. At the same time verify and adjust airflows from the supply-air diffusers. The amount of outdoor air should comply with the ASHRAE Standard 62.1-1999 industry guideline of 20 ft2 per person per minute in offices. 2) Leave the door open to the airshaft on the 31st floor to create air movement from the office space to the outdoors until the building manager can recalibrate and improve the return airflows. Afterward, shut the airshaft door to maintain positive pressure and promote energy conservation. 3) Thoroughly clean the 31st floor office space. This should include HEPA vacuuming all carpeting and upholstered chairs. Many materials typically found in offices can adsorb VOCs when the HVAC system is off and release them back to the air when the HVAC system resumes operation. Carpets and upholstered chairs also attract cat allergens, dust mites and potentially other biological contaminants. 4) During any office renovations, attempt to flush out the VOCs by operating the HVAC system 24 hours a day if possible, and continue to operate the HVAC system 24 hours a day for two weeks after renovations are completed.