Technical Solutions to Common Indoor Air Quality Issues in Schools and Universities in Puerto Rico

Creating and maintaining a healthy indoor environment is essential for the students and educators who spend most of their days inside classrooms. To support this goal, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has outlined seven proven technical strategies that schools can adopt to improve indoor air quality (IAQ) and foster safer, more productive learning spaces.

The EPA’s recommended approaches include:

1. Optimize HVAC Systems – Properly design, operate, and maintain ventilation systems to control odors, reduce airborne pollutants, and ensure sufficient airflow.
   
   
2. Control Mold and Moisture – Keep humidity levels between 30%–60%, repair leaks quickly, and dry affected areas within 24–48 hours.
   
   
3. Implement Integrated Pest Management (IPM) – Use targeted pest control methods, notify occupants before treatments, and clearly mark treated zones.
   
   
4. Maintain and Clean Effectively – Regular cleaning and facility upkeep protect building systems while reducing health risks.
   
   
5. Select Materials Wisely – Choose low-emission, environmentally responsible products that safeguard occupants’ well-being.
   
   
6. Manage Sources and Chemicals – Reduce exposure by removing pollutant sources and minimizing emissions from hazardous substances.
   
   
7. Integrate Energy Management – Balance efficiency with IAQ by maintaining HVAC systems, preventing moisture buildup, and commissioning systems after renovations.
   
   

“Poor indoor air quality can negatively impact comfort, health, and even academic performance,” said Harry Pena, President of Zimmetry Environmental. “Our team supports schools and universities across Puerto Rico with testing, consulting, and training services to identify indoor environmental concerns. These may include mold, bacteria, viruses, asbestos, lead, radon, chemicals, and other exposure issues. We not only identify these types of risks but also develop effective strategies to resolve them.”

To increase awareness, Zimmetry recently sponsored an educational video showcasing the EPA’s seven IAQ strategies, available here: https://youtu.be/D1YHtvpUsUk

For more information about Zimmetry Environmental’s building science, indoor air quality, environmental, and compliance services, please visit www.zimmetry.com, call (787) 995.0005, or email info@zimmetry.com.

About Zimmetry Environmental
Since 2002, Zimmetry Environmental has been providing environmental consulting services to building owners and managers, architects, engineers, EHS professionals, and Fortune 500 companies. The company is based in Puerto Rico and provides services across the Caribbean and Central America. The professionals at Zimmetry offer environmental compliance, indoor air quality, asbestos, lead-based paint, Phase I ESAs, and general environmental consulting services.

Contact Information

Paul Cochrane

President

Cochrane & Associates, LLC

Contact via E-mail