Table 3 Matrix of activities causing... | Emerald Publishing

Table 3

Matrix of activities causing occupational health and safety concerns, and suggested remedies

Activities	Occupational health and safety issues	Solutions
Upgrading lighting fixtures to save energy	The study indicates that the presence of asbestos-containing material, lead paint, or PCBs could potentially be disrupted while replacing lighting fixtures. All interviewees lay claim to this issue. PCBs could potentially be found in older fluorescent lamp ballasts that lack proper labelling. Five interviewees supported this notion, while the remaining three were indifferent. Additionally, mercury vapour or mercury-laden powder may be present due to the breakage of fluorescent bulbs or the improper use of drum-top crushers. Two of the interviewees lay claim to redness/swelling of the eye in some instances and reduction in sense of smell. These activities can lead to a variety of consequences	The eight respondents in all the case study building recommended that the situation be addressed by removing and replacing old fixtures that contain hazardous compounds with ones that contain less dangerous components. Effectively disposing of lights containing mercury and fixtures containing PCBs will equally contribute to the solution
Upgrading roof and ceiling insulation	According to all the respondents, the process of updating roof and ceiling insulation has the potential to disrupt hazardous substances such as asbestos-containing material, lead paint, PCBs, or mould. The installation of spray-polyurethane foam can produce indoor pollutants. The eight respondents agree with the view. Installing spray foam insulation under a low-pitch wooden roof deck may cause moisture to accumulate, leading to concealed structural roof damage and mould growth. One respondent flagged the problem as one of the key issues that service providers often neglect, whereas all the respondents agreed that enhancing the building envelope can lead to higher concentrations of indoor pollutants such as radon, combustion by-products, moisture and mould, and VOCs. The majority of the participants alluded to falling from a height as another safety concern, especially if the roof trusses are relatively old	All the participants agreed that improving the situation was crucial. The participants recommended a thorough selection of moisture-resistant insulation, the correct installation of insulation materials, and the effective sealing of surfaces and assemblies susceptible to condensation. Additionally, the eight respondents proclaimed that sealing any undesired openings and leaks in the building structure would minimize infiltration and prevent conditions that attract pests. Furthermore, all the respondents concurred that, it is essential to have sufficient airflow to disperse and eliminate contaminants present indoors. The respondents concurred that adequate checks should be accorded to the roof upgrade to avoid falls from height, especially when the strength of the trusses is unknown
Upgrading wall insulation	All eight respondents claim that materials containing asbestos, lead paint, PCBs, or mould could potentially be disrupted during wall insulation upgrading. All six respondents are from the government office building. Six out of eight posited that the installation of spray-polyurethane foam can produce indoor pollutants, while two interviewees were indifferent on the issue. They all confirmed that enhancing the integrity of the building envelope can lead to higher concentrations of indoor pollutants, such as radon, combustion by-products, dampness and mould	To address the issue, all the participants proposed using measures to regulate moisture and condensation levels on surfaces, providing insulation that is resistant to moisture and guaranteeing effective management of exterior drainage and water. Furthermore, all the interviewees in all the case-study buildings unanimously concurred that it is important to seal any undesired openings and leaks in the building envelope to decrease penetration and create an environment that is less favourable for pests to enter. Proper ventilation is necessary to disperse and eliminate interior contaminants during the upgrade, as was alluded to
Modifying or repairing existing moisture barriers	All the participants in the case-study buildings acknowledge that there is a possibility of disturbing asbestos-containing material, lead paint, PCBs, or mould. Four out of eight participants believed that an exposed dirt floor might lead to an excessive influx of moisture into the building. All the respondents added that installing carpet or floor tile over a concrete floor with a chronic condensation or water pooling issue will probably result in the establishment of mould. Two interviewees assert that exposed dirt floors could potentially boost pest populations and foster the development of rodent habitats	Regarding the circumstance, all participants agreed unanimously that it is necessary to provide a sealed moisture barrier over dirt foundation flooring. Five out of eight participants explicitly stated that to effectively act as a moisture barrier underneath a concrete slab, it is important to choose sealants and adhesives with minimal or no VOC content or emissions, select transparent polymeric films that meet appropriate flame and smoke ratings, and implement additional radon mitigation measures as necessary
Altering or cleaning fan coil and unit ventilators	The responses from all the respondents verified that the process of duct installation, sealing, or replacement may result in the disturbance of asbestos-containing material, lead paint, mould, or other debris. Three out of eight assert that improper condensate drainage in units with cooling coils might create conditions that promote the growth of Legionella bacteria or mould. While all the respondents concurred that in humid climates, it may be necessary to use extra dehumidification methods when the amount of outdoor air being brought in is increased. Two of the respondents put it that improperly sealed and insulated ductwork can cause condensation issues when it goes through areas that are not temperature-controlled. Whereas the remaining six participants were quiet on the matter. All the participants agreed that inappropriate alterations to HVAC systems can lead to imbalanced flows and pressures, which may increase levels of dampness, radon and other contaminants from below ground	All the participants believed that it is important to minimize the infiltration of airborne pollutants into the building and to maintain appropriate levels of interior humidity. In addition, five out of eight have the notion that choosing goods that have low levels of VOCs does not include formaldehyde. Also, the five respondents affirm that offering ducts that are sealed and designed to be energy-efficient. Ensuring adequate ventilation and appropriately adjusting HVAC systems can help maintain positive indoor pressurization, which in turn reduces the entry of humid air into the building structure. The other three participants were silent on this matter
Pipe modifications: Converting from a one-pipe to a two-pipe steam system, OR converting from a two-pipe to a four-pipe heating and cooling system	According to all eight service providers, they accentuate that in replacing systems or components, there is a possibility of disturbing materials that contain asbestos, lead paint, or mould. Six out of eight respondents postulate that inadequate expelling of combustion gases and the possibility of occupants being exposed to CO₂ are possible hazards. The remaining two were silent on this. Three of the participants that are in charge of hotel building alluded that moisture or mould may accumulate when the HVAC system is inactive for prolonged periods. Whereas, all the service providers concurred that insufficient humidity control when the cooling system is running can lead to the formation of mould and create conditions that attract pests. Also, three out of the eight service providers that are handling government administrative buildings made it known that improper utilization of chilled water reset or airside economizers can result in cool and humid temperatures and the formation of condensation on cold surfaces. While five of the eight service providers confirmed that insufficient maintenance of the humidifier can result in microbial issues	All the interviewees believed that it is important to properly vent combustion gases and to ensure that mechanical rooms containing combustion equipment have adequate make-up air and ventilation. Also, five out of eight respondents agree that installing and maintaining CO₂ detection and warning equipment; ensuring that steam traps, combustion equipment and boilers are installed correctly; and ensuring that make-up air registers are not blocked are some of the remedies to the issue. Furthermore, all seven out of eight services confirmed that air conditioning systems should be properly sized and controlled to avoid humidity and moisture issues, especially under part-load conditions, and that they should be adequately sized for both cooling and dehumidification. The remaining respondents indicated that it is necessary to ensure well-maintained humidification equipment and controls are in place to promote occupant comfort and health during the heating season
HVAC controls to monitor/maintain indoor air quality (IAQ) (upgrades or modifications). Building automation system that controls outdoor air and exhaust flow rates	Also, all the service providers reported that asbestos-containing material or lead paint may be disturbed during wall or ceiling penetrations. Six service providers that are handling hotel facilities, office complexes and government administrative buildings agreed that mercury from the removal of old mercury bulb thermostats may present a risk, whereas two were silent. In addition, two respondents that were handling multi-purpose office buildings and government administrative buildings affirmed that sensors that are not regularly calibrated may lead to IAQ problems. All the respondents believed that poor humidity control during cooling system operation can result in mould growth and present opportunities for pest infestations. Five respondents proposed that inappropriate use of chilled water resets or airside economizers can lead to cool and clammy conditions. Also, they all confirmed that indoor air can become too dry for occupant comfort and health during the heating season. All the respondents in the case study buildings affirmed that inadequate operation and maintenance of humidifier controls can lead to microbiological problems. Three respondents suggested that unbalanced flows and pressures from improper HVAC controls can result in heightened intrusion of moisture, radon and other subterranean contaminants. Six service providers confirmed that improperly vented combustion gases and occupant exposure to CO₂ are paramount	In resolving the situation. The eight interviewees expressed the belief that it is important to properly exhaust combustion gases and ensure that mechanical rooms containing combustion equipment have sufficient make-up air and ventilation. Also, three of the respondents agreed that installing and maintaining CO₂ detection and warning equipment to detect and alert to the presence of CO₂ gas is a welcome directive. The respondents believed that in ensuring the installation of steam traps, combustion equipment and boilers, checking that make-up air registers are not obstructed can also remediate the issue. Additionally, five out of eight respondents that are handling government administrative buildings assert that it is important to ensure that air conditioning systems are appropriately dimensioned and regulated to prevent problems related to humidity and moisture, especially while operating at less than full capacity

Activities	Occupational health and safety issues	Solutions
Upgrading lighting fixtures to save energy	The study indicates that the presence of asbestos-containing material, lead paint, or PCBs could potentially be disrupted while replacing lighting fixtures. All interviewees lay claim to this issue. PCBs could potentially be found in older fluorescent lamp ballasts that lack proper labelling. Five interviewees supported this notion, while the remaining three were indifferent. Additionally, mercury vapour or mercury-laden powder may be present due to the breakage of fluorescent bulbs or the improper use of drum-top crushers. Two of the interviewees lay claim to redness/swelling of the eye in some instances and reduction in sense of smell. These activities can lead to a variety of consequences	The eight respondents in all the case study building recommended that the situation be addressed by removing and replacing old fixtures that contain hazardous compounds with ones that contain less dangerous components. Effectively disposing of lights containing mercury and fixtures containing PCBs will equally contribute to the solution
Upgrading roof and ceiling insulation	According to all the respondents, the process of updating roof and ceiling insulation has the potential to disrupt hazardous substances such as asbestos-containing material, lead paint, PCBs, or mould. The installation of spray-polyurethane foam can produce indoor pollutants. The eight respondents agree with the view. Installing spray foam insulation under a low-pitch wooden roof deck may cause moisture to accumulate, leading to concealed structural roof damage and mould growth. One respondent flagged the problem as one of the key issues that service providers often neglect, whereas all the respondents agreed that enhancing the building envelope can lead to higher concentrations of indoor pollutants such as radon, combustion by-products, moisture and mould, and VOCs. The majority of the participants alluded to falling from a height as another safety concern, especially if the roof trusses are relatively old	All the participants agreed that improving the situation was crucial. The participants recommended a thorough selection of moisture-resistant insulation, the correct installation of insulation materials, and the effective sealing of surfaces and assemblies susceptible to condensation. Additionally, the eight respondents proclaimed that sealing any undesired openings and leaks in the building structure would minimize infiltration and prevent conditions that attract pests. Furthermore, all the respondents concurred that, it is essential to have sufficient airflow to disperse and eliminate contaminants present indoors. The respondents concurred that adequate checks should be accorded to the roof upgrade to avoid falls from height, especially when the strength of the trusses is unknown
Upgrading wall insulation	All eight respondents claim that materials containing asbestos, lead paint, PCBs, or mould could potentially be disrupted during wall insulation upgrading. All six respondents are from the government office building. Six out of eight posited that the installation of spray-polyurethane foam can produce indoor pollutants, while two interviewees were indifferent on the issue. They all confirmed that enhancing the integrity of the building envelope can lead to higher concentrations of indoor pollutants, such as radon, combustion by-products, dampness and mould	To address the issue, all the participants proposed using measures to regulate moisture and condensation levels on surfaces, providing insulation that is resistant to moisture and guaranteeing effective management of exterior drainage and water. Furthermore, all the interviewees in all the case-study buildings unanimously concurred that it is important to seal any undesired openings and leaks in the building envelope to decrease penetration and create an environment that is less favourable for pests to enter. Proper ventilation is necessary to disperse and eliminate interior contaminants during the upgrade, as was alluded to
Modifying or repairing existing moisture barriers	All the participants in the case-study buildings acknowledge that there is a possibility of disturbing asbestos-containing material, lead paint, PCBs, or mould. Four out of eight participants believed that an exposed dirt floor might lead to an excessive influx of moisture into the building. All the respondents added that installing carpet or floor tile over a concrete floor with a chronic condensation or water pooling issue will probably result in the establishment of mould. Two interviewees assert that exposed dirt floors could potentially boost pest populations and foster the development of rodent habitats	Regarding the circumstance, all participants agreed unanimously that it is necessary to provide a sealed moisture barrier over dirt foundation flooring. Five out of eight participants explicitly stated that to effectively act as a moisture barrier underneath a concrete slab, it is important to choose sealants and adhesives with minimal or no VOC content or emissions, select transparent polymeric films that meet appropriate flame and smoke ratings, and implement additional radon mitigation measures as necessary
Altering or cleaning fan coil and unit ventilators	The responses from all the respondents verified that the process of duct installation, sealing, or replacement may result in the disturbance of asbestos-containing material, lead paint, mould, or other debris. Three out of eight assert that improper condensate drainage in units with cooling coils might create conditions that promote the growth of Legionella bacteria or mould. While all the respondents concurred that in humid climates, it may be necessary to use extra dehumidification methods when the amount of outdoor air being brought in is increased. Two of the respondents put it that improperly sealed and insulated ductwork can cause condensation issues when it goes through areas that are not temperature-controlled. Whereas the remaining six participants were quiet on the matter. All the participants agreed that inappropriate alterations to HVAC systems can lead to imbalanced flows and pressures, which may increase levels of dampness, radon and other contaminants from below ground	All the participants believed that it is important to minimize the infiltration of airborne pollutants into the building and to maintain appropriate levels of interior humidity. In addition, five out of eight have the notion that choosing goods that have low levels of VOCs does not include formaldehyde. Also, the five respondents affirm that offering ducts that are sealed and designed to be energy-efficient. Ensuring adequate ventilation and appropriately adjusting HVAC systems can help maintain positive indoor pressurization, which in turn reduces the entry of humid air into the building structure. The other three participants were silent on this matter
Pipe modifications: Converting from a one-pipe to a two-pipe steam system, OR converting from a two-pipe to a four-pipe heating and cooling system	According to all eight service providers, they accentuate that in replacing systems or components, there is a possibility of disturbing materials that contain asbestos, lead paint, or mould. Six out of eight respondents postulate that inadequate expelling of combustion gases and the possibility of occupants being exposed to CO₂ are possible hazards. The remaining two were silent on this. Three of the participants that are in charge of hotel building alluded that moisture or mould may accumulate when the HVAC system is inactive for prolonged periods. Whereas, all the service providers concurred that insufficient humidity control when the cooling system is running can lead to the formation of mould and create conditions that attract pests. Also, three out of the eight service providers that are handling government administrative buildings made it known that improper utilization of chilled water reset or airside economizers can result in cool and humid temperatures and the formation of condensation on cold surfaces. While five of the eight service providers confirmed that insufficient maintenance of the humidifier can result in microbial issues	All the interviewees believed that it is important to properly vent combustion gases and to ensure that mechanical rooms containing combustion equipment have adequate make-up air and ventilation. Also, five out of eight respondents agree that installing and maintaining CO₂ detection and warning equipment; ensuring that steam traps, combustion equipment and boilers are installed correctly; and ensuring that make-up air registers are not blocked are some of the remedies to the issue. Furthermore, all seven out of eight services confirmed that air conditioning systems should be properly sized and controlled to avoid humidity and moisture issues, especially under part-load conditions, and that they should be adequately sized for both cooling and dehumidification. The remaining respondents indicated that it is necessary to ensure well-maintained humidification equipment and controls are in place to promote occupant comfort and health during the heating season
HVAC controls to monitor/maintain indoor air quality (IAQ) (upgrades or modifications). Building automation system that controls outdoor air and exhaust flow rates	Also, all the service providers reported that asbestos-containing material or lead paint may be disturbed during wall or ceiling penetrations. Six service providers that are handling hotel facilities, office complexes and government administrative buildings agreed that mercury from the removal of old mercury bulb thermostats may present a risk, whereas two were silent. In addition, two respondents that were handling multi-purpose office buildings and government administrative buildings affirmed that sensors that are not regularly calibrated may lead to IAQ problems. All the respondents believed that poor humidity control during cooling system operation can result in mould growth and present opportunities for pest infestations. Five respondents proposed that inappropriate use of chilled water resets or airside economizers can lead to cool and clammy conditions. Also, they all confirmed that indoor air can become too dry for occupant comfort and health during the heating season. All the respondents in the case study buildings affirmed that inadequate operation and maintenance of humidifier controls can lead to microbiological problems. Three respondents suggested that unbalanced flows and pressures from improper HVAC controls can result in heightened intrusion of moisture, radon and other subterranean contaminants. Six service providers confirmed that improperly vented combustion gases and occupant exposure to CO₂ are paramount	In resolving the situation. The eight interviewees expressed the belief that it is important to properly exhaust combustion gases and ensure that mechanical rooms containing combustion equipment have sufficient make-up air and ventilation. Also, three of the respondents agreed that installing and maintaining CO₂ detection and warning equipment to detect and alert to the presence of CO₂ gas is a welcome directive. The respondents believed that in ensuring the installation of steam traps, combustion equipment and boilers, checking that make-up air registers are not obstructed can also remediate the issue. Additionally, five out of eight respondents that are handling government administrative buildings assert that it is important to ensure that air conditioning systems are appropriately dimensioned and regulated to prevent problems related to humidity and moisture, especially while operating at less than full capacity

Source(s): Authors’ own creation