South Florida Indoor Environmental Assessment Study

Background Indoor air pollution is a matter of concern because of the deteriorating indoor air quality which leads for the increase in the number of children and young adults with severe allergies and asthma. As per EPA indoor air pollution ranks among the five environmental dangers to the public. The home evaluation survey was designed to characterize the physical environment in which the child lived and to the allergens to which the child might be exposed. Objective To characterize the indoor environmental quality and general living conditions in ten Miami Dade homes occupied by asthamatic children. Method The survey included visual and thermal image camera inspection, temperature and relative humidity monitoring for short and long term, indoor and outdoor air analysis for various contaminants and settled and airborne dust characterization. Standardized collection of settled and fiber-imbedded dust as well as suspected mold growth observations specimens were collected in two indoor locations. Dust specimens and air samples from inside and outside the home were sent to a lab for measurement of concentration of allergens using culture procedures and direct microscopy. Result Overt signs of building failure observed, leading to water intrusion were observed. Noticeable deficiencies in air conditioning hygiene were noted. Cooking appliances did not play an important role as most of the homes use electricity for cooking. Conclusion Study revealed that some homes are poorly maintained and have conditions that would support microbial amplification. The intervention will control allergens that are possibly associated with high levels of temperature and humidity.