SUSTAINABLE BUILDINGS

Asset Classes

Focus Area

Indoor Air Quality and Hazards

Topic

Ventilation and Exhaust

Question #

I2.6 – IAQ Management in Laboratories

Question

Are the following strategies implemented to manage Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) in laboratories and specialized rooms?

Applicability

Office, Healthcare, Universal
Owner/landlord occupied building
Tenant occupied building

Answer & Scoring

  • Yes = Points as indicated below

Select all that apply:

      • Failsafe, self-identifying alarm systems are in place = 1 point
      • Biological safety cabinets are labeled with an annual dated certification and instructions= 1 point
      • In-line filters for biological safety cabinet vacuum lines are inspected monthly and changed as necessary= 1 point
      • Where corrosive substances are used, easy to access emergency eyewash stations are installed nearby, and/or showers are free from obstruction = 1 point
      • Laboratories are kept under positive or negative pressure (as required) to prevent entry of pollutant= 1 point
      • There is differential pressure monitoring in adjacent areas = 1 point
      • Fluorinated anesthetic waste captured instead of being discharged to the exterior = 1 point
  • No = 0 points
  • Not Applicable – There are no laboratories in the building = 0/0

Max of 3 points

Requirements

Demonstrate the following is in place:

  1. Failsafe, self-identifying alarm systems
  2. Biological safety cabinets are labeled with an annual dated certification and instructions
  3. In-line filters for biological safety cabinet vacuum lines are inspected monthly and changed as necessary
  4. Where corrosive substances are used, easy to access emergency eyewash stations are installed nearby, and/or showers are free from obstruction
  5. Laboratories are kept under positive or negative pressure (as required) to prevent the entry of pollutants
  6. Differential pressure monitoring in adjacent areas
  7. Fluorinated anesthetic waste captured instead of being discharged to the exterior

Fluorinated anesthetic waste (such as desflurane, sevoflurane, and isoflurane) is typically vented to the outdoors through a dedicated scavenging system. This practice poses significant environmental and public health risks. Anesthetic gas should instead be filtered, and harmful gases captured before the remaining gas is vented to the atmosphere. Once captured, gases can be processed into raw material to manufacture new anesthetics. The capture process must be monitored regularly, with monthly reporting.

Documentation

  • Emails, memo, service agreements, photos or any other evidence which demonstrate requirements have been met

Suggested Lead

In-house, with third-party support

Value

  • Enhancing the IAQ within a laboratory ensures a safer environment for workers and compliance with health and safety regulations.
  • Each measure works to control pollutants, prevent exposure, and maintain a healthy and functional workspace.

Description

The installation of these measures aims to enhance the safety, functionality, and Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) of the laboratory environment. These improvements are essential to protect laboratory personnel, maintain regulatory compliance, and ensure the efficient and safe operation of the facility.

References

Adapted BB 3.0 Question

Question 5.1.M.3 Are there failsafe, self-identifying alarm systems as needed?

Question 5.1.M.4 Are biological safety cabinets labeled with an annual dated certification and instructions for proper operation?

Question 5.1.M.6 Where corrosive substances are used, are there nearby, easy to access emergency eyewashes and/or showers free from obstructions?

Question 5.1.M.7 Is the supply air system interlocked to prevent air-pressure drop in indoor spaces? (i.e., fans, dampers, electrical) with Exhaust air, Doors or Windows?

Question 5.1.M.8 Are laboratories kept under positive or negative pressure (as required) to prevent entry of pollutants?

Question 5.1.M.9 Is there differential pressure monitoring in adjacent areas?