Guide for the prevention of microbial growth in ventilation systems.

This guide combines two complementary disciplines, engineering and biology. It will provide people involved from the design to the evaluation. to the operational phase of ventilation systems with not only a better understanding of the relations hi p between operation and the appearance of conditions favor able to the development of microorganisms , but also the means for controlling their growth. A complete review of pertinent technical information was necessary to produce this document, as well as an analysis of available research reports, and the consultation of publications of various organizations and associations. In total, more than one hundred documents were consulted. In or der to ensure its application, the guide was designed and written in such a way as to illustrate, in the best way possible, situations characteristic of our environment. The photographs, taken during field visits, demonstrate familiar situations. The completed guide was validated by potential users and revised on the basis of their comments. Field checklists have been included in or der to make this document easier to use. Knowledge in this field of expertise is evolving rapidly, and consequently a periodic update is planned.