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   United States
   Environmental Protection
   Agency
                HEALTHY INDOOR
                ENVIRONMENT PROTOCOLS
                FOR HOME ENERGY
                UPGRADES

                                 Indoor Air Quality (IAQ)

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HEALTHY  INDOOR  ENVIRONMENT PROTOCOLS  FOR

HOME  ENERGY UPGRADES

This document is available for public review and comment until December 9, 2010.

Purpose:
The Healthy Indoor Environment Protocols for Home Energy Upgrades are intended to enhance the ability of other
federal agencies, industry standard organizations, state and local programs, and the home energy retrofit industry to better
integrate health protections into home energy upgrade programs. The protocols apply to single family and multifamily low-rise
residential dwellings, and are intended for voluntary adoption by weatherization assistance programs, federally funded housing
programs, private sector home performance contracting organizations, and others working on residential retrofit or remodeling
efforts.

This document DOES NOT:
• Set new EPA regulatory standards.
• Provide guidance for diagnosing occupant health problems or building-related illness.
• Replace the need for training or training documents.
• Provide detailed guidance on how to achieve the intent of each recommendation in all situations.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is developing these voluntary protocols in conjunction with the U.S.
Department of Energy (DOE) Workforce Guidelines for Home Energy Upgrades, and  coordinated with the White House
Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) Recovery Through Retrofit initiative. Together, these complementary documents
will: provide a  robust and practical set of resources for retrofit contractors, trainers, and program administrators; help improve
the quality of the work performed in this expanding industry; promote occupant health and safety; and drive consumer
demand for energy efficiency retrofit services.

For more information:
http://www.epa.gov/iaq/homes/retrofits.html
http://www. weatherization.energy.gov/retrofit_guidelines
http://www.whitehouse.gov/sites/default/files/Recovery_Through_Retrofit_Final_Report.pdf

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Table of Contents

WHY EPA DEVELOPED THESE PROTOCOLS	i
HOW THE PROTOCOLS ARE ORGANIZED..                                                       .. i
CONTAMINANT SOURCES OF CONCERN	1
   ASBESTOS	1
   EN VI RON MENTAL TOBACCO SMOKE (ETS)	2
   GARAGE AIR POLLUTANTS	2
   LEAD	3
   MOISTURE (MOLD AND OTHER BIOLOGICALS)	3
   OZONE	6
   PESTS	6
   RADON	7
   OTHER BELOWGROUND CONTAMINANT SOURCES	9

EMERGING ISSUES	10
   PCBs, DRYWALL & SPRAY POLYURETHANE FOAM 	10

CRITICAL BUILDING SYSTEMS FOR OCCUPANT HEALTH	10
   COMBUSTION SAFETY (CO, VOCS & PARTICULATES)	10
      Vented Ap pi i ances	10
      Unvented Appliances	11
   EXHAUST VENTILATION FOR LOCALIZED CONTAMINANT SOURCES	12
   WHOLE HOUSE VENTILATION FOR DISTRIBUTED CONTAMINANT SOURCES	12

SAFETY	13
   HOME SAFETY	13
   OCCUPANT AND WORKER SAFETY..                                                       ..13

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Why EPA  Developed These Protocols:
Millions of American homes will be retrofitted in the coming years to improve energy efficiency or make them more
"green." Integrated healthy home and energy efficiency retrofit activities can lower utility costs for Americans and improve
indoor air quality at the same time. Leading weatherization assistance and energy efficiency retrofit programs have
demonstrated the feasibility of integrating many occupant health and safety improvements into their work. However,
there is also the potential for home energy retrofit activities to negatively impact indoor air quality and public health — if
the appropriate home assessment is not made before work begins and issues that may impact indoor air quality are not
appropriately addressed. These protocols provide guidance for conducting such home assessments and also provide the
specific responses necessary to maintain or improve health and safety in conjunction with energy efficiency retrofits or other
remodeling activities.

The protocols are intended to enhance the ability of other federal agencies, industry standard organizations, state and
local programs, and the home energy retrofit industry (i.e., home weatherization, energy efficiency retrofit and housing
rehabilitation professionals)  to better integrate health protections into energy focused programs. The protocols apply to single
family and multifamily low-rise residential dwellings. Together with better resources for workers and programs, the protocols
will improve the quality of home weatherizations and other energy efficiency retrofit or remodeling jobs, and reduce failures
and call-backs.

How The Protocols Are  Organized:
The document is organized to highlight priority health concerns that may relate to home energy efficiency retrofits. Priority
Issues are identified based on whether they are known to pose significant health risks to occupants or workers and whether they
can be affected by energy efficiency retrofit activities.  For each Priority Issue identified in Column 1, the matrix identifies the
following:

1.  Assessment Protocols in Column 2 provide EPA-recommended assessment protocols for evaluating both existing
   conditions of concern and the potential for additional health concerns that may arise as a result of retrofit activities.

2.  Minimum Actions in Column 3  include actions that weatherization and home energy retrofit contractors should take to
   ensure  that the work they perform in a home does not introduce new health concerns or make existing conditions worse.
   These often reference existing standards.

3.  Expanded Actions in Column  4 include recommended indoor environment improvements that  can be made during
   many home energy retrofit projects. The expanded actions are usually low- or no-cost, simple improvements that can be
   performed by home energy retrofit workers with proper training and sufficient  resources.

EPA anticipates the need for supplemental assessment tools such as worksheets and checklists, to help assessors and contractors
manage critical job information. Therefore, EPA plans to develop sample assessment tools to accompany these protocols, such
as the following sample tool concepts (not included in this draft):
• Sample Mold and Moisture Assessment Form
• Sample Radon Testing and Assessment Form
• Sample Home Ventilation Worksheet

For more information, please see http://www.epa.gov/iaq/homes/retrofits.html.

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HEALTHY  INDOOR  ENVIRONMENT  PROTOCOLS  FOR HOME  ENERGY  UPGRADES
  PRIORITY ISSUES
ASSESSMENT PROTOCOL
                       Assessment measures to help weatherization and
                       home energy retrofit contractors identify serious
                       threats to occupant health commonly found inside
                       homes. This is not a guide for diagnosing occupant
                       health problems or building-related illness.
                                                   Minimum Actions
                                     Critical steps to ensure work does not increase
                                     known health risks to occupants or workers
                                     (i.e., "Do No Harm"). EPA recommends these
                                     protections for ALL retrofit projects.
                                                                                                                iOR ENVIROI
                                                                                                                                 Expanded Actions
Simple, mostly inexpensive additional actions
to promote occupant health that are feasible
for most energy efficiency retrofit projects. EPA
recommends consideration of these improvements
when feasible.
 CONTAMINANT SOURCES OF CONCERN
 ASBESTOS
                       Determine potential asbestos hazard. Consider the
                       age of housing, especially homes built after 1930
                       and before the 1970s, which may have asbestos
                       as insulation. Asbestos may be present in other
                       building materials in homes built or renovated
                       prior to the 1990s. If unsure whether material
                       contains asbestos, contact a qualified asbestos
                       professional to assess the material and sample and
                       test as needed. Possible asbestos containing areas
                       include:
                       • Attic insulation (especially vermiculite)
                       • Wall insulation (e.g., vermiculite, insulation
                         blocks, etc.)
                       • Insulation on steam pipes, boilers and furnace
                         ducts
                       • Vinyl flooring (including 9x9 inch or 12 x
                         12 inch floor tiles, vinyl sheet flooring and
                         the mastics and adhesives  used to secure the
                         flooring)
                       • Cement sheet, millboard and paper used as
                         insulation around furnaces and wood burning
                         stoves
                       • Door gaskets in furnaces, wood stoves and coal
                         stoves (seals may contain asbestos)
                       • Soundproofing or decorative surface materials
                         sprayed on walls or ceilings
                       • Patching and joint compounds and textured
                         paints on walls and ceilings
                       • Roofing, shingles and siding (including asbestos
                         in cement or adhesives)
                       • Artificial ashes and embers (used in gas-fired
                         fireplaces)

                       Assessment Guidance:
                       N/A
                                     •  If suspected asbestos-containing material (ACM)
                                        is in good condition, do not disturb. If suspected
                                        ACM is damaged (e.g., unraveling, frayed,
                                        breaking apart, etc.), immediately isolate the area
                                        and do not disturb. Contact a professional for
                                        abatement or repair.
                                     •  If unsure whether material contains asbestos,
                                        contact a qualified asbestos professional to assess
                                        the material and sample and test as needed.
                                     •  Keep activities to a minimum in any areas having
                                        damaged material that may contain asbestos.
                                     •  When working around ACM, do not:
                                        • Dust, sweep or vacuum debris.
                                        • Saw, sand, scrape or drill holes in the material.
                                        • Use abrasive pads or brushes to strip materials.
                                     •  Do not remove or  disturb the attic insulation that
                                        looks like vermiculite (as opposed to fiberglass,
                                        cellulose or urethane foams).

                                        Note:
                                        In addition to the continued safety of the occupants,
                                        appropriate identification of ACM is vital to the
                                        safety of workers, who may not be cognizant of
                                        asbestos hazards.

                                        Note:
                                         "Blower doors" (which are powerful fans used
                                        to detect leaks by lowering pressure inside) can
                                        potentially disturb asbestos in homes, thereby
                                        potentially establishing or increasing a hazard.

                                     Relevant Guidance:
                                     EPA Guidance on "Asbestos in Your Home"

                                     http://www.epa.gov/asbestos/
• If ACM is damaged, it may be abated by repair
  or removal by a trained professional. Typically,
  asbestos can be repaired by either:
  • Sealing or Encapsulation: Treat the material
    with a sealant that either binds the asbestos
    fibers together or coats the material so fibers
    are not released. Pipe, furnace and boiler
    insulation can be repaired this way.
  • Covering or Enclosure: Place a protective
    layer over or around the ACM to prevent
    release of fibers. Exposed insulated piping
    may be covered with a protective wrap or
    jacket.
• If there is a significant advantage to removing
  asbestos (and it can be done safely), it should
  be completed  only by a professional trained to
  handle asbestos safely.

Relevant Guidance:
EPA Guidance on "Asbestos in Your Home"

http://www.epa.gov/asbestos/

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  PRIORITY ISSUES
ASSESSMENT PROTOCOL
                                                                                                  HEALTHY INDOOR ENVIRONMENTS
 ENVIRONMENTAL TOBACCO SMOKE (ETS)
                        Determine if there is a smoke-free building policy
                        (multi-family buildings only).2

                        Assessment Guidance:
                        N/A
                                                                                    Minimum Actions
                                      Occupant Education:
                                      Provide information on local smoking cessation,
                                      if appropriate. Also provide general information
                                      about tightening homes and the goals of
                                      minimizing pollutants and chemicals in homes.
                                                                                                   Expanded Actions
In multi-family buildings, recommend adoption
of smoke-free housing policy.

Relevant Guidance:
EPA Indoor airPLUS Construction Specification
5.4

http://www.epa.gov/indoorairplus/construction_
specifications.html
 GARAGE AIR POLLUTANTS
                        If there is an attached or tuck-under garage,
                        identify the location of air leaks from the garage
                        to occupied spaces, which may provide pathways
                        for hazardous emissions to enter occupied spaces.
                        For example, look for leaks around walls, doors,
                        ceilings, duct work, air conditioners, furnaces, and
                        electrical and pipe penetrations.

                        Assessment Guidance:
                        EPA Draft Model Healthy Indoor Environment
                        Assessment Questionnaire (under development)
                                      • Air seal walls/ceilings separating living spaces. At
                                        a minimum, air seal these locations (if present):
                                        • Doors (ensure tight closure and install
                                          weather-stripping)
                                        • Electrical, plumbing and duct penetrations.
                                        • Cracks between mud sill, rim joists, subfloors
                                          and/or bottom of gypsum board
                                        • Duct work, supply diffusers, return grilles and
                                          air handlers in the garage
                                        • Test-in and test-out using advanced blower
                                          door techniques
                                      • Specify carbon monoxide (CO) monitors/
                                        alarms in homes with attached garages, at least
                                        one per floor level

                                      Relevant Standard:
                                      BPI Home Energy Auditing Standard 7.10 and
                                      8.1.3

                                      NFPA 720 OR Consumer Product Safety
                                      Commission Carbon Monoxide Questions and
                                      Answers: CPSC Document #466; Blasnik and
                                      Fitzgerald advanced blower door methods
• If occupants spend significant time in the
  garage (e.g., workshops, playrooms, hobbies,
  etc.), install exhaust fan(s) rated for continuous
  operation and vented outdoors in attached
  garages in accordance with Section 5.6 of EPA
  Indoor airPLUS Construction Specifications.
• Educate occupants about safe storage of
  chemicals (e.g., oil, gasoline, pool cleaners,
  fertilizers, etc.) that may be stored in garages.

Relevant Guidance:
EPA Indoor airPLUS Construction Specification
5.6

http://www.epa.gov/indoorairplus/construction_
specifications.html

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  PRIORITY ISSUES
ASSESSMENT PROTOCOL
                                                                                                    HEALTHY INDOOR ENVIRONMENTS
                                                                                      Minimum Actions
                                                                                                     Expanded Actions
                        Assume lead-based paint exists in pre-1978 homes
                        unless testing confirms otherwise. Determine if
                        paint will be disturbed by the work.

                        Assessment Code/Standard:
                        EPA Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP)
                        Program Rule (40 CFR Part 745)

                        http://www.epa.gov/lead/pubs/renovation.htm

                        HUD Lead-Based Paint Poisoning Prevention in
                        Certain Residential Structures, Subparts J and R
                        (24 CFR 35.900; 24 CFR 35.1340 & 35.1350)
 MOISTURE7 (MOLD AND OTHER BIOLOGICALS)
                        Determine if there are signs of water damage, wet
                        spots, condensation or mold. Determine if there
                        is evidence of past water damage (e.g., rot, stains,
                        etc.) in interior occupied spaces, attics, basements/
                        crawl spaces or exteriors. Note the location,
                        moisture source, recommended repair or past
                        effective repair. Measure interior relative humidity
                        to determine if large sources of interior humidity
                        exist.

                        Determine if the air conditioning (AC) unit or
                        central system components are the likely cause of
                        any liquid water sources or high indoor relative
                        humidity (e.g., incorrectly installed condensate
                        pan, broken or improperly insulated or dripping
                        condensate lines, low air flow, low refrigerant
                        levels, clogged coil, leaky or uninsulated ducts).
                                       •  Comply with EPAs RRP Rule.3 Key elements
                                         include:
                                         • Follow lead-safe work practices if disturbing
                                           greater than 6 feet2 interior or 20 feet2 of
                                           exterior painted surfaces.
                                         • Contain the work area to avoid resident
                                           exposure.
                                         • Minimize lead dust and leave work area clean.
                                         • Achieve visual post-cleaning criteria.
                                         • Use a Certified Renovator.4

                                       Relevant Code/Standard:
                                       EPAs Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP)
                                       Program Rule (40 CFR Part 745) & Proposed
                                       Rulemaking (FR Vol.75, No.87, May 6, 2010,
                                       pp.25038-25073)

                                       http://www.epa.gov/lead/pubs/renovation.htm

                                       http ://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2010/pdf/2010-
                                       10102.pdf

                                       Occupant Education:
                                       EPA Renovate Right pamphlet

                                       http://www.epa.gov/lead/pubs/
                                       renovaterightbrochure.pdf
                                         If moisture issues can be solved (see
                                         Expanded Actions column to the right), then
                                         weatherization and energy retrofit activities
                                         proceed in conjunction with moisture control
                                         interventions.
                                         If moisture issues cannot be solved:
                                         • If moisture issue will likely lead to or
                                           aggravate high indoor humidity problems, do
                                           not air seal, replace atmospherically-vented
                                           combustion equipment with high efficiency
                                           units or otherwise lower air infiltration rate.8
                                           This includes homes that have significant
                                           condensation/humidity problems, such
                                           as condensation on multiple windows,
                                           condensation in attics or significant moisture/
                                           mold beyond the scope of remedies in the
                                           Expanded Actions column.
• Follow the U.S. Department of Housing
  and Urban Development (HUD) lead-safe
  rehabilitation practices (required for HUD
  projects that use up to $5,000 of federal
  assistance5). In addition to EPAs RRP, this rule:
  • Lowers the thresholds from  6 feet2 interior to
    2 feet2 in any room.
  • Requires repair of paint that is disturbed
    using lead-safe work practices.
  • Requires meeting dust clearance testing
    standards if greater than 2 feet2 of paint is
    disturbed.6

Relevant Code/Standard:
24 CFR Part 35, Subpart J: Rehabilitation, and
relevant elements of Subpart R: Methods and
Standards for Lead-Paint Hazard Evaluation and
Hazard Reduction Activities (e.g., 24 CFR 35.
1340; 24 CFR 35.1350)
Wet Attics:
• Repair minor roof leaks prior to attic insulation
  or air sealing.
• Provide adequate attic insulation.
• Prevent roof underlayment (roof decking)
  condensation or ice dam problems by
  meticulously air sealing the ceiling (between
  the living area and the attic). Address indoor
  humidity sources causing attic condensation (see
  remedies below).
• Air seal and insulate all attic ductwork if it
  is beyond the scope of the weatherization to
  extend the thermal envelope.
                                                                                                                                               (Continued on next page)

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  PRIORITY ISSUES
ASSESSMENT PROTOCOL
                                                                                                  HEALTHY INDOOR ENVIRONMENTS
 MOISTURE (MOLD AND OTHER BIOLOGICALS) (continued)
                        Assessment Guidance:
                        Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA)
                        Quality Installation (QI) Specification

                        http ://www.acca.org/quality/

                        Also see: Sample Mold and Moisture Assessment
                        Form (under development)
                                                                                     Minimum Actions
                                        • If there are plumbing leaks or rainwater
                                          leaks in wall cavities, attics or ceiling
                                          cavities beyond the scope of remedies in the
                                          Expanded Actions column, do not insulate
                                          these areas until the leaks are fixed.

                                      Relevant Guidance:
                                      N/A
                                                                                                   Expanded Actions
Exterior Water:
• Prior to insulating basement or crawl space walls
  near wet areas, address surface water pooling
  near the foundation by:
  • Repairing, modifying or replacing gutters and
    down spouts.
  • Grading and subsurface drainage at critical
    locations (e.g., localized drain and grading
    beneath valleys) per EPA Indoor airPLUS
    Construction Specification Section 1.1.
• Ensure energy efficient replacement windows
  and doors are installed with proper flashing
  details to ensure drainage to the exterior. See
  EPA Indoor airPLUS Construction Specification
  Section 1.6.
Wall Assemblies:
• Use caution when increasing insulation levels
  of wall assemblies, especially increasing cavity
  insulation, which can lead to moisture and
  condensation problems. Consider installing any
  new insulation over the exterior of sheathing,
  if possible, with exterior wall cladding/siding
  installed over the new insulation. Consider
  back-ventilating and back-draining behind
  the wall cladding/siding (Note: these are more
  expensive options).
Interior Humidity or Condensation:
• Cover exposed earth in basement or crawlspaces
  with a vapor barrier material (e.g., 6-mil
  polyethylene sheeting), taped at all seams and
  edges per EPA Indoor airPLUS Construction
  Specification Section 1.2.
• Depending on the Climate  Zone,  provide
  dehumidification to address high humidity and
  condensation problems (e.g., adding whole
  house ventilation to meet ASHRAE Standard
  62.2-2010 (see Section 4, Whole Building
  Ventilation), improving  dehumidification
  performance of the home's air conditioning
  system, or adding an ENERGY STAR qualified
  dehumidifier to the basement, crawlspace or air
  conditioning system).
                                                                                                                                             (Continued on nex.
                                                                                 4

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  PRIORITY ISSUES
ASSESSMENT PROTOCOL
                                                                                                  HEALTHY INDOOR ENVIRONMENTS
                                                                                     Minimum Actions
 MOISTURE (MOLD AND OTHER BIOLOGICALS) (continued)
                                                                                                   Expanded Actions
                                                                                                                      • Prevent condensation on cold surfaces by
                                                                                                                        adding vapor barriers and insulation between
                                                                                                                        cold surfaces and warm-humid air, with vapor
                                                                                                                        barriers installed on the warm side of the
                                                                                                                        insulation.
                                                                                                                      • Install new ENERGY STAR qualified bath fans,
                                                                                                                        or repair existing bath fans, vented outdoors
                                                                                                                        per ASHRAE  Standard 62.2-2010, to address
                                                                                                                        bathroom moisture/humidity issues (see Section
                                                                                                                        5, local exhaust).
                                                                                                                      • Recalculate the home's heating and cooling
                                                                                                                        design loads after expected weatherization
                                                                                                                        modifications, and compare with ratings of
                                                                                                                        existing equipment. Ensure the capacity of any
                                                                                                                        new heating and cooling equipment matches
                                                                                                                        the expected design loads after weatherization,
                                                                                                                        including the latent capacity of cooling and
                                                                                                                        dehumidification equipment. Oversized cooling
                                                                                                                        equipment will have significantly reduced
                                                                                                                        moisture removal/dehumidincation capabilities,
                                                                                                                        and oversized heating and cooling equipment
                                                                                                                        may be prone  to short cycling and premature
                                                                                                                        equipment failure. Notify homeowners/clients
                                                                                                                        of any existing equipment that may be oversized
                                                                                                                        after weatherization modifications.
                                                                                                                      Simple AC System Tune-up and Repairs:
                                                                                                                      • In homes with AC systems, find the cause of
                                                                                                                        condensation or poor AC performance and
                                                                                                                        repair:
                                                                                                                        •  Insulate condensate lines.
                                                                                                                        •  If appropriate, reinstall window AC units to
                                                                                                                          ensure condensate drips to the exterior  and
                                                                                                                          not on or into the wall.
                                                                                                                        •  Find and repair cause of condensation on
                                                                                                                          supply grilles.
                                                                                                                        •  Replace dirty filter and clean evaporator coil.
                                                                                                                        •  Adjust slope of condensate pan to drain
                                                                                                                          correctly.
                                                                                                                        •  Seal duct leaks.
                                                                                                                        •  Investigate and repair other performance
                                                                                                                          problems (i.e., low supply or return air  flow,
                                                                                                                          low refrigerant charge), if feasible.
                                                                                                                                             (Continued on next page)

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  PRIORITY ISSUES
ASSESSMENT PROTOCOL
                                                                                                    HEALTHY INDOOR ENVIRONMENTS
 MOISTURE (MOLD AND OTHER BIOLOGICALS) (continued)
                                                                                      Minimum Actions
                                                                                                     Expanded Actions
                                                                                                                        Relevant Guidance:
                                                                                                                        Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA)
                                                                                                                        Quality Installation (QI) Specification

                                                                                                                        http ://www.acca.org/quality/

                                                                                                                        ASHRAE Standard 62.2-2010, "Ventilation
                                                                                                                        and Acceptable Indoor Air Quality in Low-Rise
                                                                                                                        Residential Buildings," including Normative
                                                                                                                        Appendix A — Existing Buildings

                                                                                                                        EPA Indoor airPLUS Construction Specifications
                                                                                                                        1.1, 1.2 and 1.6.

                                                                                                                        http://www.epa.gov/indoorairplus/construction_
                                                                                                                        specifications.html
                        Determine if there is any air-cleaning equipment
                        designed to produce ozone (i.e., ozone generators)
                        in the house.

                        Assessment Guidance:
                        California Air Resources Board (GARB) resources
                        on ozone producing air cleaners.

                        http://www.arb.ca.gov/research/indoor/ozone.htm
                                       • Recommend removal of air-cleaning equipment   This cell is intentionally blank.
                                         designed to produce ozone (i.e., ozone
                                         generators).

                                       Relevant Guidance:
                                       EPA Indoor airPLUS Construction Specification
                                       4.7

                                       http://epa.gov/indoorairplus/construction_
                                       specifications.html

                                       http://www.epa.gov/iaq/pubs/ozonegen.html
                        Identify evidence of mice, squirrels and other
                        rodents; termites as indicator of moisture
                        problems; birds; bats; or other pest infestations.
                        Note the location. Identify if pesticides and/or
                        rodenticides are used.

                        Assessment Guidance:
                        Alliance for Healthy Homes, Community
                        Environmental Health Resource Center Protocols

                        http://www.afhh.org/res/res_cehrc.htm

                        http:/lwww.cdc.gov/ rodents
                                         If there is indication of current or past
                                         infestation, educate the clients about Integrated
                                         Pest Management (IPM) through pamphlets or
                                         other appropriate guidance.
                                         Advise owner/resident to regularly clean/fix
                                         screens (e.g., when replacing HVAC filters),
                                         remove clutter, eliminate wood piles near house,
                                         and remove any bushes, trees or other vegetation
                                         closer than 2 feet away from structure.
                                         Alert owner of any termite infestations and
                                         inform of the need to seek assistance from
                                         an IPM Greenpro or Greenshield certified
                                         professional.
Patch exterior holes 1/4-inch x  3/8-inch or
larger using pest resistant materials (e.g., copper
mesh, hardware cloth, sheet metal, concrete,
etc.) before applying air sealing materials that
are less resistant (e.g., caulk or foam) or before
insulating.
Protect air intake and exhaust vents from
rodents, birds and pest entry. For example, cover
openings with  1/4-inch galvanized mesh.
Apply boric acid or gels in holes for roach issues.
(Note: Some states require licensing).
Follow relevant state pesticide applicator
standards.
                                                                                                                                               (Continued on nex.

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  PRIORITY ISSUES
  PESTS (continued)
ASSESSMENT PROTOCOL
                                                                                                     HEALTHY INDOOR ENVIRONMENTS
                                                     Minimum Actions


                                       Relevant Guidance:
                                       http ://www.healthyhomes training, org/ipm

                                       http://www.epa.gov/pesticides/factsheets/ipm.htm

                                       Occupant Education:
                                       How To Control Pests Safely. New York City
                                       Department of Health and Mental Hygiene

                                       http ://www.healthyhomes training. org/ipm/NYC_
                                       Pests_Healthy_Home.pdf
                                                                                                                                       Expanded Actions
                                                                                                                         •  Provide scalable garbage cans and/or advise
                                                                                                                           clients to use them.

                                                                                                                         Relevant Guidance:
                                                                                                                         How To Control Pests Safely, New York City
                                                                                                                         Department of Health and Mental Hygiene

                                                                                                                         http ://www.healthyhomes training. org/ipm/NYC_
                                                                                                                         Pests_Healthy_Home.pdf
                        Test homes for radon to help ensure home energy
                        retrofit actions do not increase radon exposure.
                        Tests, and follow-up action if needed, may be
                        conducted using either of the options described in
                        the Minimum Actions column at right.

                        Perform radon testing in accordance with state
                        and federal guidance, as appropriate. Some states
                        regulate the activities of radon services providers
                        through registration, certification or licensing
                        programs. Individuals conducting radon tests
                        should be trained/certified through either:
                        • The National Environmental Health
                          Association (NEHA) National Radon
                          Proficiency Program, or
                        • The National Radon Safety Board (NRSB)
                          certification program.

                           Note:
                           An optional second pre-work radon test may be
                           taken and averaged with the initial pre-work
                           test, to increase confidence that the short term test
                           better reflects the annual average radon level in
                           the home.

                        Determine whether the home has a radon
                        mitigation system. Most mitigation systems use
                        active soil depressurization and include a radon
                        vent fan, usually located in an attic, attached
                        garage or on the exterior of the home.
                                       The options described below are intended to
                                       minimize the potential for increased occupant
                                       exposure to radon that may be caused by home
                                       energy retrofit work, while minimizing additional
                                       costs.

                                       Perform radon testing and mitigation in
                                       accordance with state and federal guidance, as
                                       appropriate (see Assessment Protocol at left).

                                          Note:
                                          An optional second post-work radon test may be
                                          taken and averaged with the initial post-work
                                          radon test to increase confidence that the short
                                          term test better reflects the annual average radon
                                          level. DO NOT average the pre-work and post-
                                          work test results.

                                       Test-In/Test-Out Option: Test for radon before
                                       and after energy retrofit work.

                                       If pre-work radon level is 4 pd/L or greater, take
                                       appropriate limited radon reduction actions
                                       during retrofit work (see Expanded Actions
                                       column at right), AND
                                         • IF post-work radon level is less than 4 pCi/L,
                                           no further action  is required.
                                         • IF post-work radon level is 4 pCi/L or greater,
                                           but NOT greater than pre-work radon level,
                                           inform client about radon and provide client
                                           with EPA's Citizens Guide to Radon.
EPA recommends radon mitigation in all homes
that test at 4 pCi/L or greater. Radon levels less
than 4 pCi/L still can pose a health risk, and in
many cases may be reduced.

The following recommended lower cost, limited
actions may help reduce the radon level in a home
or aid more advanced mitigation if necessary:

• Air seal sumps (e.g., install airtight sump cover)
  in such a way that water can drain from above
  and below the sump cover.
• Install airtight drain fittings (e.g., trap or flange
  system) in foundation floor drains.
• Seal and caulk penetrations, openings, or cracks
  in floors and below grade walls that contact the
  ground, per ASTM C920.
• Cover exposed earth floors in basements and
  crawlspaces per Section 1.2 of EPA Indoor
  airPLUS Construction Specifications or ASTM
  E2121.

   Note:
   Only active soil depressurization (ASD) systems
   installed per ASTM E2121 have been shown
   to reliably reduce radon below 4pd/L. If
   all the above limited radon reduction actions
   are attempted and radon remains high, EPA
   recommends full compliance with ASTM E2121.
                                                                                                                                                (Continued on nex.

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DRAFT  11/09/2010
                                                                                                     PLEASE DO NOT CITE OR QUOTE
  PRIORITY ISSUES
  RADON (continued)
ASSESSMENT PROTOCOL
                        Assessment Guidance:
                        Follow state regulation where it exists. Otherwise
                        see EPA guidance for testing and mitigation at
                        http://www.epa.gov/radon/pubs/index.html.

                        Also see: Sample Radon Assessment Form (under
                        development)
                                                                                                   HEALTHY INDOOR ENVIRONMENTS
                                                                                     Minimum Actions
                                        • IF post-work radon level is greater than pre-
                                          work radon level, mitigate per ASTM E2121
                                          OR take further radon reduction actions (see
                                          Expanded Actions) to reduce radon to pre-
                                          work conditions or below, then re-test. Repeat
                                          this step until post-work radon level is at or
                                          below pre-work radon level.
                                      Iff re-work radon level is less than 4 pd/L, radon
                                      reduction actions may not be necessary. Consider
                                      limited radon reduction actions during retrofit
                                      work if pre-work radon level is close to 4 pCi/L
                                      (see Expanded Actions) AND
                                        • IF post-work radon level is NOT greater than
                                          pre-work radon level, no further action is
                                          required.
                                        • IF post-work radon level is greater than
                                          pre-work radon level, but less than 4 pCi/L,
                                          radon reduction is not required to comply
                                          with EPA guidance. However, greater radon
                                          risk may be present and appropriate radon
                                          reduction actions are recommended (see
                                          Expanded Actions).
                                        • IF post-work radon level is greater than pre-
                                          work radon level AND is 4 pCi/L or greater,
                                          mitigate per ASTM E2121 OR take limited
                                          radon reduction actions (see Expanded
                                          Actions) to reduce radon to pre-work
                                          conditions or below, then re-test. Repeat this
                                          step until post-work radon level is at or below
                                          pre-work radon level.

                                      OR

                                      Post-Work Test Option: Test radon after retrofit
                                      work is performed, AND
                                      • If post-work radon level is 4 pCi/L or greater,
                                        mitigate per ASTM E2121.
                                      • If post-work radon level is less than 4 pCi/L, no
                                        further action is required.
                                                                                                   Expanded Actions
Homes 'with an active radon mitigation system:
If the existing radon mitigation system does not
reduce radon below 4 pCi/L or is not working as
designed, troubleshoot the system. Follow state
residential radon regulations where applicable.

Relevant Guidance:
ASTM C920, Standard Specification for
Elastomeric Joint Sealants, Class 25.

For guidance on sealing crawlspaces, see EPA
Indoor airPLUS Construction  Specification 1.2
or ASTM E2121, Standard Practice for Installing
Radon Mitigation Systems in Existing Low-Rise
Residential Buildings  (section 7.3).
                                                                                                                                             (Continued on next page)

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DRAFT  11/09/2010
                                                                                                      PLEASE DO NOT CITE OR QUOTE
  PRIORITY ISSUES
  RADON (continued)
ASSESSMENT PROTOCOL
                                                                                                    HEALTHY INDOOR ENVIRONMENTS
                                                                                      Minimum Actions
                                                                        Homes 'with an active radon mitigation system:
                                                                        Verify that the radon fan is operating. If not
                                                                        operating or if the tested radon level is 4 pCi/L or
                                                                        more, advise the client to consult their state radon
                                                                        office (http ://www.epa.gov/radon/whereyoulive.
                                                                        html) or a qualified radon mitigation contractor
                                                                        (http://www.epa.gov/radon/radontest.html).

                                                                        Relevant Standards/Guidance:
                                                                        ASTM E2121,  Standard Practice for Installing
                                                                        Radon Mitigation Systems in Existing Low-Rise
                                                                        Residential Buildings

                                                                        EPA's Citizen's Guide  to Radon
                                                                        http://www.epa.gov/radon/pubs/citguide.html
                                                                                                    Expanded Actions
 OTHER BELOWGROUND CONTAMINANT SOURCES
                        If there is a sewer gas smell in the home (e.g.,
                        during fan depressurization test), visually evaluate
                        the integrity of sewer vent system (e.g., ensure
                        drain traps have water in them, inspect drain lines
                        for breaks or leaks).

                        If soil or groundwater contamination is suspected
                        on or near the building site (e.g., former industrial
                        sites), volatile contaminants or breakdown
                        products may pose an indoor air quality risk
                        through soil gas intrusion. In such cases, EPA
                        recommends further assessment before air sealing.
                        Consult your state or tribal brownfield voluntary
                        cleanup program or environmental regulatory
                        agency for information on the risks of vapor
                        intrusion in your area.

                        Without discovering and correcting the cause or
                        source, corrective measures, such as the installation
                        of plastic sheathing or air sealing, will only
                        exaggerate these problems.
                                       •  Fill dry drain traps with a non-toxic liquid that
                                         has a slow evaporation rate (e.g., mineral oil),
                                         and repair or replace failed or unattached sewer
                                         vent system components before air-sealing
                                         activities.
                                       •  If soil gas vapor intrusion is suspected, assess
                                         and mitigate in accordance with state or local
                                         regulation. If state or local regulation does not
                                         exist, follow EPA guidance.

                                         Note:
                                         Soil depressurization systems similar to radon
                                         mitigation systems are typically recommended to
                                         solve soil gas vapor intrusion problems.

                                       Relevant Guidance:
                                       American Society of Plumbing Engineers Data
                                       Book: A Plumbing Engineers  Guide to System
                                       Design and Specifications. Volume 2, Plumbing
                                       Systems (p. 10).
If there is an untrapped floor drain, consider a
low-cost floor drain seal retrofit often used during
radon mitigations.
                                                                                                                                              (Continued on next page)

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DRAFT  11/09/2010
                                                                                                   PLEASE DO NOT CITE OR QUOTE
  PRIORITY ISSUES
ASSESSMENT PROTOCOL
                                                                                                 HEALTHY INDOOR ENVIRONMENTS
 OTHER BELOWGROUND CONTAMINANT SOURCES (continued)
                       Assessment Standard:
                       EPA Vapor Intrusion Primer, ASTM E2600,
                       or EPA Draft Guidance for Evaluating the
                       Vapor Intrusion to Indoor Air Pathway from
                       Groundwater and Soils.
                                                                                   Minimum Actions
                                      State or local regulation where applicable.
                                      Otherwise EPA Vapor Intrusion Primer, ASTM
                                      E2600, or EPA Draft Guidance for Evaluating
                                      the Vapor Intrusion to Indoor Air Pathway from
                                      Groundwater and Soils.
                                                                                                 Expanded Actions
                       http ://www.epa.gov/waste/hazard/correctiveaction/   http ://www.epa.gov/waste/hazard/correctiveaction/
                       eis/vapor.htm                                   eis/vapor.htm

                       Also see:
                       http://www.epa.gov/ada/gw/vapor.html
 EMERGING ISSUES
 PCBs, DRYWALL & SPRAY POLYURETHANE FOAM
                       Assess if there are any concerns over the following
                       emerging issues (additional guidance may be
                       necessary):

                       • PCBs in caulk
                       • Contaminated drywall
                       • Spray polyurethane foam

                       Assessment Guidance:
                       No inexpensive assessments have been identified
                       for these emerging issues.
 CRITICAL BUILDING SYSTEMS FOR OCCUPANT HEALTH
 COMBUSTION SAFETY (CO, VOCS & PARTICULATES)
                                       When using spray polyurethane foam, ensure
                                       workers use proper protection including an
                                       appropriate respirator, chemical resistant gloves
                                       and additional chemical resistant clothing to
                                       prevent dermal exposure. Ensure sufficient
                                       ventilation and foam cure time to protect
                                       tenants before re-entry in the home. Also see:
                                       http://www.epa.gov/dfe/pubs/projects/spf/
                                       spray_polyurethane_foam.html
• If PCBs may be present, see: http://www.epa.
  gov/pcbsincaulk/
• If contaminated drywall issues are suspected
  in the home, see: http://www.cpsc.gov/info/
  drywall/guidance04l0.pdf
 VENTED APPLIANCES
                       Determine if there are any existing or potential
                       safety issues with combustion appliances, such as
                       gas, kerosene or oil burning ranges, ovens, stoves,
                       furnaces, wood stoves or fireplaces.

                       Determine if there are any potential safety issues
                       that may result from changes to the building
                       envelope, using Combustion Appliance Zone
                       (CAZ) Worst Case Depressurization testing per
                       BPI Section 7.5.

                       Assessment Standard:
                       BPI Home Energy Auditing (EA) Standard
                       10/19/09, Section?
                                      •  Conduct CAZ Testing per BPI Standards and
                                        ensure compliance.
                                      •  If a whole house fan is used for night cooling,
                                        warn occupants to open many windows before
                                        operating the fan.
                                      •  Repair, modify or replace combustion
                                        equipment (e.g., water heater, furnace, boiler,
                                        gas range, fireplaces, woodstoves, etc.) and
                                        address other issues/deficiencies as needed to
                                        meet BPI standards.
                                      •  If the home smells of wood smoke, investigate
                                        cause and repair.
                                      •  Install carbon monoxide (CO) monitors/alarms
                                        if not present, one per floor level.
  Address CAZ pressure — with combustion
  make-up air, fan interlocks, transfer grilles,
  jumper ducts, louvered doors or door undercuts
  — or disable offending exhaust equipment.
  When water heaters are replaced, add a heat trap
  to the hot water line of new set-up.
  If replacing combustion equipment as part of
  the retrofit process, replace existing with sealed
  combustion equipment, per Section 5.1 of EPA
  Indoor airPLUS Construction Specification  and
  ACCA QI Standards.
                                                                                                                                          (Continued on next page)
                                                                                10

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DRAFT  11/09/2010
                                                                                                   PLEASE DO NOT CITE OR QUOTE
  PRIORITY ISSUES
ASSESSMENT PROTOCOL
                                                                                                 HEALTHY INDOOR ENVIRONMENTS
 VENTED APPLIANCES (continued)
                          Note:
                          When conducting CAZ testing, 5 Pa
                          depressurization limit may not be appropriate
                          for all venting conditions.  See BPICAZ
                          Depressurization Limits table:
                          httpjlwww. bpi. org/Web %20Downloadl
                          BPI%20Standards/Building%20Analyst%20
                          Professional_2-28-05nNC-newCO.pdf
 UNVENTED APPLIANCES
                       Identify any unvented gas or kerosene space
                       heaters or vent-free fireplaces.

                       Determine whether any local or state laws
                       prohibiting these devices apply.

                       Recognize all unvented heaters as moisture
                       sources.

                       Assessment Guidance:
                       N/A
                                                   Minimum Actions


                                      Relevant Standard:
                                      BPI Home Energy Auditing Standard, Section 7

                                      NFPA 720 OR Consumer Product Safety
                                      Commission Carbon Monoxide Questions and
                                      Answers CPSC Document #466
                                      •  Install carbon monoxide (CO) monitors/alarms
                                        if not present (one per floor level).
                                      •  Verify that kitchen exhaust fan exhausts to
                                        outdoors.
                                      •  Recommend removing all unvented combustion
                                        appliances. If the primary source of heat, replace
                                        with vented,  code-compliant heating systems.
                                      •  Red tag illegal unvented gas or kerosene space
                                        heaters according to local and state law and
                                        advise clients to remove them as appropriate. If
                                        the primary source of heat, replace with vented,
                                        code-compliant heating systems.
                                      •  If occupant intends to disregard these
                                        recommendations, educate occupants about
                                        the hazards of operating illegal unvented
                                        space heaters or operating vent-free appliances
                                        inconsistently with manufacturer's directions.
                                        For example, some manufacturers' directions
                                        call for open  windows, as use of the device
                                        requires additional ventilation to remove
                                        products of combustion such as NO2,  CO2,
                                        ultrafine particles and water vapor.

                                      Relevant Standard:
                                      BPI Home Energy Auditing Standard, Sections
                                      3.2 and 7

                                      NFPA 720 OR Consumer Product Safety
                                      Commission Carbon Monoxide Questions and
                                      Answers CPSC Document #466
                                                                                                                                  Expanded Actions
Relevant Guidance:
EPA Indoor airPLUS Construction Specification
Section 5.1

ACCA QI Standards

http://www.epa.gov/indoorairplus/construction_
specifications.html
This cell is intentionally blank.
                                                                                11

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DRAFT  11/09/2010
                                                                                                   PLEASE DO NOT CITE OR QUOTE
  PRIORITY ISSUES
ASSESSMENT PROTOCOL
                                                                                                 HEALTHY INDOOR ENVIRONMENTS
                                                                                   Minimum Actions
                                                                                                  Expanded Actions
 EXHAUST VENTILATION FOR LOCALIZED CONTAMINANT SOURCES INCLUDING KITCHENS, BATHS, DRYERS, ETC.
                       Determine if home complies with local exhaust
                       requirements of ASHRAE Standard 62.2-2010,
                       using Appendix A - Existing Buildings.

                       Determine if dryers vent to the outdoors
                       (condensing dryers are exempt).

                       Check for laundry room exhaust fans.

                       Inspect/verify that kitchen/bath/dryer exhaust do
                       not discharge into crawlspaces, attics or within
                       walls.

                       Assessment Standard:
                       ASHRAE Standard 62.2-2010, "Ventilation
                       and Acceptable Indoor Air Quality in Low-Rise
                       Residential Buildings," including Normative
                       Appendix A — Existing Buildings

                       BPI Home Energy Auditing (EA) Standard,
                       Section 8.2

                       Also see:  Sample Existing Homes Ventilation
                       Worksheet (under development)
                                      •  If bathroom, dryer and kitchen exhaust
                                        requirements or the alternative compliance
                                        method in Appendix A of ASHRAE Standard
                                        62.2-2010 are not met, repair, replace or
                                        install exhaust ventilation that meets ASHRAE
                                        Standard 62.2-2010 requirements and ensure
                                        ducts are sized and installed and venting
                                        properly to outdoors OR install additional
                                        ventilation measures as necessary to meet
                                        ASHRAE Standard 62.2-2010 requirements,
                                        using Appendix A - Existing Buildings to
                                        account for existing fans and windows.

                                      •  Ensure that all clothes dryers exhaust to the
                                        outdoors (condensing dryers are exempt).

                                      Relevant Standards:
                                      ASHRAE Standard 62.2-2010, "Ventilation
                                      and Acceptable Indoor Air Quality in Low-Rise
                                      Residential Buildings," including Normative
                                      Appendix A - Existing Buildings

                                      BPI Home Energy Auditing (EA) Standard,
                                      Section 8.2
• If the home is in compliance with ASHRAE
  Standard 62.2-2010 without bathroom or
  kitchen exhaust fans (i.e., using Appendix A),
  EPA recommends installation of exhaust fans,
  vented to the outdoors, per ASHRAE Standard
  62.2-2010 requirements of Section 5, to
  improve pollutant source removal.

Relevant Standard:
ASHRAE Standard 62.2-2010, "Ventilation
and Acceptable Indoor Air Quality in Low-Rise
Residential Buildings," including Normative
Appendix A - Existing Buildings
  WHOLE HOUSE VENTILATION FOR DISTRIBUTED CONTAMINANT SOURCES, INCLUDING FORMALDEHYDE, OTHER VOCS, AND PARTICLES
                       Determine if existing ventilation meets ASHRAE
                       Standard 62.2-2010 requirements, using Appendix
                       A - Existing Buildings. (This will require blower
                       door testing and measuring fan flows—e.g.,
                       bathroom, kitchen exhaust). Determine if
                       additional ventilation measures are needed to meet
                       the ASHRAE Standard 62.2-2010 requirements.

                       Assessment Standard:
                       ASHRAE Standard 62.2-2010, "Ventilation
                       and Acceptable Indoor Air Quality in Low-Rise
                       Residential Buildings," including Normative
                       Appendix A — Existing Buildings

                       Also see: Sample Existing Homes Ventilation
                       Worksheet (under development)
                                      •  Install additional ventilation measures as
                                        necessary to meet ASHRAE Standard 62.2-
                                        2010 requirements, using Appendix A - Existing
                                        Buildings to account for existing fans and
                                        windows.

                                      Relevant Standard:
                                      ASHRAE Standard 62.2-2010, "Ventilation
                                      and Acceptable Indoor Air Quality in Low-Rise
                                      Residential Buildings," including Normative
                                      Appendix A - Existing Buildings
• Ensure newly installed central forced-air HVAC
  systems have minimum MERV 8 filter, no filter
  bypass, and no air cleaners designed to produce
  ozone.
• For existing systems, check with the manufacturer
  to determine if MERV 8 filters can be installed.
• During remodeling/renovation activities,
  follow the guidance in EPA Indoor airPLUS
  Construction Specifications Sections 6.1
  (structural plywood, oriented strand board
  (OSB), and composite wood products), 6.2
  (interior paints and finishes), and 6.3 (carpets and
  carpet adhesives), where applicable.

Relevant Guidance:
EPA Indoor airPLUS Construction Specifications
4.7, 6.1,6.2 and 6.3
http://www.epa.gov/indoorairplus/cons truction_
specifications.html
                                                                                12

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DRAFT  11/09/2010
                                                                                                     PLEASE DO NOT CITE OR QUOTE
  PRIORITY ISSUES
ASSESSMENT PROTOCOL
                                                                                                   HEALTHY INDOOR ENVIRONMENTS
                                                                                     Minimum Actions
                                                                                                   Expanded Actions
 HOME SAFETY
                        Determine if there are working CO monitors/
                        alarms and smoke detectors.

                        Identify knob and tube electrical wiring.
                                      • Test/install working CO and smoke alarms.
                                        If new batteries are needed, install a 10-year
                                        lithium battery.
                                      • Do not bury unsafe wiring in attic insulation.
                        Identify harmful chemicals in accessible locations.   Relevant Standard:
                                                                       BPI Home Energy Auditing Standard, Section 7
                        Assessment Guidance:
                        N/A                                           NFPA720 OR Consumer Product Safety
                                                                       Commission Carbon Monoxide Questions and
                                                                       Answers CPSC Document #466

                                                                       Occupant Education:
                                                                       Hot water heater set-back rationale; instructions
                                                                       on how to test smoke and CO alarms; other safety
                                                                       measures for young children, elderly, etc.; referral
                                                                       to other local programs
                                               •  Recommend safe storage of harmful household
                                                  chemicals (e.g., remove from accessible
                                                  locations).
                                               •  For households with small children and/or
                                                  elderly occupants, discuss scald prevention with
                                                  clients and adjust hot water heater setpoint to
                                                  120 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent scalding.
                                               •  For households with small children, recommend
                                                  installation of gates at top of stairs.
                                               •  In homes with elderly persons, install grab bars,
                                                  handrails and lighting as appropriate.
                                               •  Recommend replacement of knob and tube
                                                  wiring following applicable electrical codes
                                                  using qualified personnel.

                                               Relevant Guidance:
                                               N/A
 OCCUPANT AND WORKER SAFETY
                        Occupants and workers need to be protected from
                        unsafe exposures during retrofit and renovation
                        activities. By law, employers and supervisors are
                        required to ensure that workers are working with
                        an OSHA written Safety and Health Plan.

                        Typical OSHA Construction Plan Includes:
                        Falls
                        Ladders
                        Electrical
                        Chemicals
                        Confined Space
          29 CFR 1926.501
          29 CFR 1926.1053
          29CFR1926SubpartK
          29 CFR 1926.59
          29 CFR 1926.21 (b)(6)(i)
                        Free help with developing these plans is often
                        available from state or federal training (consulting)
                        programs.

                        Assessment Guidance:
                        OSHA 1926 Safety and Health Regulations for
                        Construction

                        Safety and Health Plans shall address multiple
                        construction issues, including the following:
• When known pollutants are being produced
  or disturbed during retrofit activities, follow
  appropriate standards to minimize worker and
  occupant exposure, including EPA lead safe,
  BPI, OSHA, NIOSH, etc. (see below).
• Ensure proper ventilation and adequate
  worker hazard protection during these types of
  activities.

Additional Resources:
OSHA website

http ://www. osha.gov/

National Institute for Occupational Safety and
Health (NIOSH) website

http://www.cdc.gov/niosh
When possible, choose construction products with
manufacturers that disclose all ingredients and
verify that they are free of formaldehyde, mercury,
and other known toxic substances.

Additional Resource:
Healthy Building Network PHAROS Tool

http://pharosproject.net
                                                                                                                                             (Continued on nex.
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DRAFT   11/09/2010
                                                                                                       PLEASE DO NOT CITE OR QUOTE
  PRIORITY ISSUES
ASSESSMENT PROTOCOL
                                                                                                     HEALTHY INDOOR ENVIRONMENTS
 OCCUPANT AND WORKER SAFETY (continued)
                        Lead: Determine if retrofitting/renovation
                        activities will expose workers to lead dust (paint)
                        (e.g., pre-1978 buildings).
                        Asbestos: Determine if workers will be exposed
                        to asbestos containing material (e.g., pre-1980
                        buildings).
                        Falls: Determine if workers will be exposed to
                        heights of 6 feet or greater.
                        Ladders: Determine if workers will be using
                        ladders.
                        Electrical: Determine if workers will be exposed to
                        electrical hazards.
                                                                                       Minimum Actions
                                                                                                     Expanded Actions
                                       Lead: If the facility was built before 1978,
                                       retrofitting/renovation activities involving existing
                                       paint are assumed to contain lead and require
                                       compliance with EPA 40 CFR 745 RRP. OSHA's
                                       Lead Standard for the Construction Industry at 29
                                       CFR 1926.62, covers hazards from lead.

                                       Asbestos: If the facility was built before 1980,
                                       retrofitting/renovation activities may expose
                                       workers to  asbestos containing material and
                                       require compliance with 29 CFR 1926.1101,
                                       which provides the required protection measures.
                                       See page 1 for more guidance.

                                       Falls: If work is required at heights of 6 feet or
                                       greater, then the workers must be protected with
                                       guard rails or tied off to prevent falling, Refer to
                                       OSHA rule at 29 CFR 1926.501.

                                       Ladders: If ladders are used, portable ladders
                                       must be able to support at least four times the
                                       maximum intended load.  Ladders that must lean
                                       against a wall are to be positioned at a 4:1 angle.
                                       Ladders are to be kept free of oil,  grease, wet paint
                                       and other slipping hazards. The area around the
                                       top and bottom of the ladder must be kept clear.
                                       Ladders must not be tied or fastened together to
                                       provide longer sections. Metal ladders must not be
                                       used while working on electrical equipment and
                                       electrical wiring. Additional information available
                                       at: OSHA's 29 CFR 1926.1053.
                                       Electrical: Exposure to electrical hazards is a leading
                                       cause of death and injuries for construction work.
                                       29 CFR  1926 Subpart K contains requirements
                                       in protecting workers from electrical hazards.
                                       Employers must make sure that all non-double-
                                       insulated electric equipment is equipped with a
                                       grounding conductor (three-wire type). Worn or
                                       frayed electric cords must not be used. Employers
                                       must provide either ground-fault circuit interrupters
                                       or an assured equipment grounding conductor
                                       program  (which includes the regular testing of
                                       all equipment grounding conductors) to protect
                                       employees from ground faults.
OSHA publication "Lead in Construction"
which can be found at http://www.osha.gov/
Publications/osha3142.pdf provides information
on OSHA requirements to protect workers from
lead hazards in the construction industry.
Additional information on protecting the
workers from fall hazards can be found at: http://
www.osha.gov/SLTC/etools/construction/falls/
mainpage.html.

Additional resources on ladder safety can be found
on OSHA's website at: http://www.osha.gov/
Publications/osha3124.pdf.
Additional information on electrical safety
available at: http://www.osha.gov/SLTC/etools/
construction/electrical_incidents/mainpage.html.
                                                                                   14
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DRAFT  11/09/2010
                                                                                                     PLEASE DO NOT CITE OR QUOTE
  PRIORITY ISSUES
ASSESSMENT PROTOCOL
                                                                                                   HEALTHY INDOOR ENVIRONMENTS
 OCCUPANT AND WORKER SAFETY (continued)
                        Mold: Determine if workers will be exposed to
                        mold.
                        Hazard communication: Determine whether
                        workers will be exposed to chemicals.
                                                                                     Minimum Actions
                                                                                                   Expanded Actions
                        Confined space: Determine if workers are exposed
                        to confined space hazards.
                                      Mold: Mold is found in damp, humid
                                      environments that have poor air exchange. Most
                                      molds do not harm healthy people but can cause
                                      allergies and asthma in others. If mold is suspected
                                      to be disturbed during activities, refer to the CDC
                                      Mold Prevention Strategies, NIOSH Interim
                                      Recommendations for Cleaning and remediation,
                                      or EPA's publication, A Brief Guide to Mold,
                                      Moisture and Your Home for guidance.

                                      Hazard communication: If renovation/retrofitting
                                      activities will require the handling of chemical
                                      substances, compliance with 29 CFR 1926.59
                                      is necessary. It requires that chemical safety
                                      information be made available for all chemicals in
                                      use,  containers are properly labeled, and workers
                                      handling them are properly trained.
                                      Confined space: Ensure work space has breathable
                                      air (i.e., ventilate the work space if necessary).
                                      Section 5(a)(l) of OSH ACT requires employers
                                      to protect workers from workplace hazards that
                                      are serious in nature. 29 CFR 1926.21 (b)(6)(i)
                                      requires that all employees required to enter into
                                      confined or enclosed spaces shall be instructed as
                                      to the nature of the hazards involved, the necessary
                                      precautions to be taken, and the use of protective
                                      and emergency equipment required.
Mold Guidance Documents can be found at
http://www.epa.gov/mold/ and http://www.
cdc.gov/mold/cleanup.htm. All suspect moldy
areas should be remediated by properly trained
individuals. The moisture source needs to be
identified (http://www.epa.gov/mold/) or mold
will return.
Additional resources on confined space hazards
in the General Industry may be found on
OSHA's website at: http://www.osha.gov/SLTC/
confmedspaces/recognition.html.
                                                                                                                                             (Continued on next page)
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DRAFT  11/09/2010
                                                                                                      PLEASE DO NOT CITE OR QUOTE
  PRIORITY ISSUES
ASSESSMENT PROTOCOL
                                                                                                    HEALTHY INDOOR ENVIRONMENTS
 OCCUPANT AND WORKER SAFETY (continued)
                        Spray polyurethane foam: Determine if workers
                        are using spray polyurethane foam.
                        Drywall with impurities: Determine whether
                        drywall has been imported from China.
                                                                                      Minimum Actions
                                       Spray polyurethane foam: Spray polyurethane
                                       foam (SPF) is extremely hazardous, and if it is
                                       going to be used,the NIOSH Alert "Preventing
                                       Asthma and Death from MDI" provides best
                                       safe practices for SPF use. SPF should only be
                                       applied with full face supplied air respirators
                                       and protective clothing. The work area should
                                       be ventilated for hours before reentry is allowed.
                                       OSHA's standard for MDI in general industry
                                       is 29 CFR 1910.1000 Subpart K and for
                                       construction is 29 CFR 1926.55 Appendix A.
                                                                                                     Expanded Actions
                                       Drywall with impurities: if drywall suspected
                                       to contain sulfur/mercury impurities is used,
                                       immediately reassess and substitute with a less
                                       hazardous alternative. There is no known abatement
                                       for Chinese drywall containing sulfur/mercury.
For Spray Polyurethane Foam, follow
recommendations provided on EPA's website:
http://www.epa.gov/dfe/pubs/projects/spf/spray_
polyurethane_foam.html

SPF is a widely used and highly-effective insulator
and sealant; however, eye, skin, and inhalation
exposures to its key ingredient, isocyanates, and
other chemicals in SPF products of concern in
vapors, aerosols and dusts during SPF installation
can cause: asthma, lung damage, respiratory
problems and other breathing difficulties, skin and
eye irritation,  and potentially other adverse health
effects.

Minimum Health Protections include:
• Building occupants and other trade workers not
  involved in the SPF installation should vacate the
  premises.
• Review product ingredients and use information,
  such as material safety data sheets (MSDSs).
• Isolate the work site.
• Wear prescribed personal protective equipment:
  chemical resistant (nitrile) gloves, appropriate
  respirator, and chemical resistant clothing.
• Ventilate the work site.
• Clean the area thoroughly before re-entry of
  unprotected workers or occupants.

NIOSH Protective Clothing and Ensembles Safety
and Health Topic website

http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/protclothing
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DRAFT   11/09/2010                                                                           PLEASE DO NOT CITE OR QUOTE


End Notes:

1 DISCLAIMER: Tightening a building is essential for energy efficiency, but may have the unintended consequence of allowing
contaminants that would otherwise be diluted to build up to unhealthy levels, including secondhand smoke in homes of smokers or in
attached multi-family dwellings adjacent to smokers.

2 Smoking by residents in single-family dwellings is an occupant behavior that is beyond the scope of this document.

3This is not a complete summary of the regulatory requirements. The full requirements can be found at: http://www.epa.gov/lead/pubs/
renovation.htm. The intent of this DRAFT protocol is to promote the most health protective steps that are feasible and practical. The
minimum action recommended in this DRAFT protocol is to comply with whatever the most current version of the RRP Rule prescribes.
The current version of the RRP Rule does not require dust wipe testing and passage of clearance standards after demolition, removal of
greater than 6 ft2 of plaster, or use of machines that disturb paint through high-speed operation; or dust wipe testing after use of heat gun at
temperatures below 1,100 degrees Fahrenheit; removal or replacement of windows or doors; scraping greater than 60ft2 of painted surfaces;
or removing greater than 40ft2 of trim of molding. However, a subsequent final rulemaking may include these more stringent requirements.

4 Reference EPA website to find accredited training programs: http://cfpub.epa.gov/flpp/searchrrp_training.htm.

5 More stringent requirements apply for HUD projects that use over $5,000  of federal assistance.

6 Dust clearance testing includes measuring for lead dust on floors, windowsills and window troughs. See http://www.nchh.Org/Portals/0/
Contents/factsheet_lead_dust.pdf.
7This assessment is designed to help contractors and assessors identify existing or potential moisture problems.

8 Replacing an atmospherically-vented combustion device with a high-efficiency, fan-powered exhaust or sealed
lower the ventilation rate and affect indoor humidity levels. If an atmospherically-vented combustion device is <
problem, it should be repaired in accordance with the Combustion Safety section of this Protocol.
                                                               17

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United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
                          http://www.epa.gov/iaq/homes/retrofits.html

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