The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) has released findings from a health hazard evaluation that investigated widespread health complaints among employees working in a state office building undergoing renovation. While the incident occurred in an administrative setting, the agency’s conclusions highlight risks that are also relevant to indoor air quality in laboratories undergoing renovation or maintenance.
The investigation began after 36 employees from two state agencies experienced symptoms including headache, sore throat, nausea, shortness of breath, coughing, and vertigo. The complaints started shortly after plumbing work began, and glues containing polyvinyl chloride (PVC) were applied to seal traps and caps. Workers described strong odors from the adhesives and from a diesel-powered excavator used indoors to remove concrete. Roughly one-third of the employees in one agency left early that day, and some later sought hospital care.
Although local fire department personnel tested the air for carbon monoxide, combustible gases, hydrogen sulfide, and oxygen—finding all readings within normal ranges—workers continued to report illness after returning to the building days later.
Indoor air quality problems reveal gaps in containment and maintenance
When NIOSH investigators arrived several weeks later, they documented a series of ventilation and containment issues. Some offices were not receiving air from HVAC units, while others had systems that did not provide cooling. The renovated areas were not properly isolated, and visible gaps between sheetrock and ceilings allowed air and contaminants to move freely between spaces.
Additional observations included the presence of mold and water damage, fragrances used in occupied offices, and an open container of plumbing glue in the renovation zone. Testing also confirmed that lead-based paint remained in one of the building’s rooms.
VOC emissions and HVAC failures contributed to employee symptoms
NIOSH concluded that the combination of poor ventilation, lack of containment, and exposure to volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from adhesives likely contributed to employees’ health complaints. Even low-level exposure to VOCs can cause irritation, dizziness, and nausea in enclosed spaces—effects that may be amplified by inadequate air exchange or recirculation.
NIOSH recommends stronger containment and ventilation standards
The agency’s report recommends several corrective actions:
- Isolate renovation areas by closing gaps between walls and ceilings
- Maintain HVAC systems in accordance with ASHRAE standards
- Repair or replace units that fail to deliver sufficient air circulation or cooling
- Address water and mold issues to prevent microbial growth
- Hire certified professionals to remediate lead-based paint
Lessons for improving indoor air quality in laboratories
For laboratory leaders, the NIOSH report serves as a reminder that indoor air quality management extends beyond research activities. Renovations, equipment installations, and even maintenance projects can introduce chemical and particulate exposures that affect both staff and research integrity. Lab managers should review containment procedures for renovation safety, ensure laboratory ventilation systems are properly balanced and maintained, and verify that contractors adhere to health and safety standards during construction.
Routine air quality monitoring, preventive maintenance, and communication with staff about potential exposures can help prevent similar incidents in laboratory settings—protecting both people and science.
This article was created with the assistance of Generative AI and has undergone editorial review before publishing.
