The Healthy Facilities Institute (HFI) Educational Center and Website announces the support of the new EPA Indoor Environments Division’s (IED) mobile app − School IAQ Assessment − featuring the Indoor Air Quality Tools for Schools guidance.  
 
EPA developed the mobile app to assist schools and school districts with performing comprehensive indoor air quality (IAQ) facility assessments to protect health and improve performance of children and staff.
 
“Given the surge in the use of handheld mobile devices (e.g., smartphones) to access information, this app is a welcome addition to the green, healthy facilities arsenal,” said Allen P. Rathey, President, Healthy Facilities Institute (HFI). “We applaud EPA for creating this integrated resource as a mobile app (EPA’s 7th) to easily connect field users with guidance from EPA’s Indoor Air Quality Tools for Schools Action Kit and the Framework for Effective IAQ Management.”
 
The free-of-charge app − http://developer.epa.gov/school-iaq-assessment-tool − provides a simple way to:
 • Access the IAQ Tools for Schools Action Kit guidance.
 • Complete 11 school IAQ assessment checklists, organized by school area (e.g., building and grounds maintenance, teacher’s classroom, HVAC, new renovations).
 • Submit completed checklist assessment forms (in Excel format) to a designated IAQ coordinator.
 • Attach pictures and add notes about IAQ problems to completed checklists.

The School IAQ Assessment Mobile App is now available to complement an existing IAQ management program and serve as the foundation for IAQ management in schools. A school walkthrough is an essential component of a comprehensive IAQ management program. Just like going to the doctor for a check-up, conducting school facility assessments should be part of a preventative care plan. Prevention saves time and money in the long run. This new School IAQ Assessment Mobile App will help schools identify, prioritize and resolve IAQ issues.