Forensic Engineering Of Indoor Air Quality

Abstract

Forensic Engineering Of Indoor Air Quality Is Both An Art And A Science. While There Are Several Standards, Guidelines, And Experienced Based Judgments, Some Are Contradictory. This Paper Discusses A Risk Assessment Approach That Considers Hazard Evaluation, Dose-Response Assessment, Exposure Assessment, And Risk Characterization. Hazard Evaluation, In Some Cases, Depends Upon Evaluation According To Physical Or Chemical Characteristics. For Example, Mold Spores Are Considered Fine Particulate Matter For Evaluation Against The National Ambient Air Quality Standard For Particulate Matter. Simple Exposure To A Contaminant Is Not Sufficient To Provoke A Response; Demonstrating A Reasonable Expectation Of A Linked Response Is Necessary. Time And Route Of Exposure Are Other Factors That Must Be Demonstrated. These Factors Are Combined In A Risk Assessment To Describe The Probability Of A Link Between Cause And Effect. Three Cases Are Presented Where These Elements Were Established Sufficiently To Persuade Judicial Decisions.