This page summarizes each of the meetings that are involved in successful implementation of EPA's IAQ TfS Action Kit.
1. Initial School Team Training
Team: Principal, Nurse, Teacher, Parent, Custodian/facilities person
The training covers why IAQ is important, what are the typical environmental problems encountered in schools and how to use the kit.
2. Assemble Action Packets
Team members prepare and assemble action packets which consist of a memo, background information on IAQ, and a checklist for each staff person's work area, all of which are included in the kit.Develop communication plan, including presentation to staff, letters to parents, etc.
3. Distribute Action Packets
The memo should mention when to return checklists, usually within 2 weeks. The checklist is both a learning tool for staff as well as an opportunity to let them know that they are part of the solution and that their opinions are very important.4. Summarize Checklists
The team uses information from the Taking Action video on how to best summarize the checklists.A floor plan of the school works best since the information needs to be easily accessible when conducting the walkthrough investigation. View “Ventilation Basics Video.
5. Training on Conducting a Walkthrough Investigation
The team is trained on how their school's ventilation system operates, how the checklist summary is used, and how to conduct the investigation as a team in a systematic way.
6. Walkthrough Investigation
Using the methods outlined during the training session, the team conducts the investigation in a step wise manner paying particular attention to the checklist summary while using the knowledge and expertise they have acquired.
7. Prioritize Results of Investigation
The potential problems, as well as all the positive things that were noted during the investigation, need to be discussed and prioritized in terms of short/long term action steps and high/low cost solutions. From this meeting, a list of action steps will be developed.
8. Taking Action
This meeting focuses on the progress of the action items agreed upon by the team, as well as developing a time line for their completion. The team also determine dates for next year’s implementation cycle. The team should also distribute to staff and parents a summary of the investigation and the steps being taken to address the issues.