Industry News
Firefighters' Exposure to Diesel Exhaust
Firefighters at a busy Iowa fire station experienced low levels of diesel exhaust exposure in both apparatus bays and living quarters, thanks largely to negative-pressure ventilation systems and industrial air filtration units.
Despite the favorable findings, NIOSH identified several areas for improvement to further reduce firefighters’ exposure to diesel exhaust, a known carcinogen linked to respiratory irritation and lung cancer. Researchers found that ultrafine particle concentrations in the apparatus bay spiked during engine starts and could take up to two hours to return to background levels after ventilation systems shut off.
The March 2026 report recommended repairing nonfunctional exhaust fans, extending the runtime of ceiling-mounted air cleaners, and considering source-capture exhaust systems in addition to general ventilation.
Cancer Concerns at an Elementary School
Investigators have found no evidence that a reported cluster of cancer cases among employees at a Missouri elementary school was caused by workplace exposures. The inquiry was launched after school employees raised concerns about multiple cancer diagnoses, including breast cancer cases, and questioned whether a nearby cell tower, environmental contamination, or hazardous materials could be contributing factors.
A review of employee cancer reports, environmental sampling data was collected between 2015 and 2025, and records related to air quality, drinking water, soil conditions, and radiofrequency radiation exposure.
Investigators noted that elevated levels of certain compounds in soil samples, including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, lead, and arsenic, were likely attributable to common environmental background sources.
Guidance to Safely Clean Flood-damaged Houses
An EPA report examining guidance for cleaning and reoccupying flood-damaged homes stresses that effective remediation depends on removing contaminated materials and thoroughly drying structures rather than relying primarily on chemical disinfectants.
Floodwaters often leave behind sewage, silt, mold, bacteria, and other contaminants that can compromise indoor environmental quality and pose long-term health risks if not properly addressed.
Before residents return, homes should meet clear reoccupancy criteria demonstrating that structures are dry, clean, free of significant contamination, and unlikely to contribute to adverse health effects associated with water damage and poor indoor air quality.
ACAC CIAQM Exam Study Guide
A certification exam study/review guide from the ACAC provides a comprehensive overview of the knowledge areas required for professionals managing indoor air quality in commercial and institutional buildings.
The guide emphasizes the “IAQ Triangle” of occupants, contaminant sources and transport mechanisms, while detailing common indoor pollutants, HVAC system operation, moisture control, microbial contamination, and the health impacts associated with poor indoor air quality.
Particular attention is given to mold, asbestos, ventilation performance and HVAC maintenance, reinforcing the critical role of building management in protecting occupant health and maintaining acceptable indoor environmental conditions.
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