Access Board News
Report on Indoor Environmental Quality Released
A growing number of people experience a range of debilitating physical reactions from exposures to everyday materials and chemicals found in building products, floor coverings, cleaning products, and fragrances, among others. There are those who have developed an acute sensitivity to various types of chemicals, a condition known as Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS). The range and severity of reactions are as varied as the potential triggering agents. In addition, there are others who report reactions from exposures to electrical devices and frequencies, a condition referred to as Electro-Magnetic Sensitivity (EMS).
In response to these concerns, the Access Board has sponsored a study on ways to improve indoor environmental quality for people with MCS and EMS, as well as for the population generally. Conducted for the Board by the National Institute of Building Sciences (NIBS), this project brought together various stakeholders to explore issues and to develop an action plan. A copy of the resulting report is now available on the NIBS website at http://ieq.nibs.org. While the project focused on commercial and public buildings, many of the issues addressed and recommendations offered are applicable in residential settings. The report includes recommendations on improving indoor environmental quality that address building products, materials, ventilation, and maintenance.
Classroom Acoustics Standard Available Free from ASA
The Acoustical Society of America (ASA), in partnership with several industry supporters, is making design standards for classroom acoustics available free through its website. The American National Standard Acoustical Performance Criteria, Design Requirements, and Guidelines for Schools (ANSI S12.60-2002) provide criteria that benefit all classroom users, including students with hearing loss. ASA developed the standard through a working group with input and sponsorship from the Access Board. Several states have adopted the standard which is voluntary unless referenced by a code, ordinance, or regulation. Previously published for sale, the standard can now be downloaded free through ASA's online store 
(http://asastore.aip.org).
(Source: Access Currents, Volume 11, No. 4, July/August 2005.)
