How can indoor air quality be improved in correctional facilities?

2 Implement preventive measures

The second step to improve IAQ in correctional facilities is to implement preventive measures that reduce or eliminate the sources of indoor air pollutants. This can include fixing leaks, cracks, and gaps that allow moisture or contaminants to enter or accumulate, as well as regularly and properly cleaning and disinfecting surfaces, ducts, filters, and equipment. Low-emission, low-odor, and non-toxic products should be used for cleaning, painting, or pest control. It is also important to prohibit or restrict smoking, burning, or aerosol spraying indoors. Finally, policies and procedures for infection control, waste management, and emergency response should be implemented.

3 Improve ventilation and filtration

Improving IAQ in correctional facilities requires improving ventilation and filtration systems to dilute and remove indoor air pollutants. Increasing the amount and frequency of outdoor air intake and exhaust, as well as ensuring that ventilation systems are well-designed, well-maintained, and well-operated are effective ways to do this. Additionally, installing high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters or ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI) devices to capture or kill airborne pathogens, using portable air cleaners or fans to supplement ventilation in high-risk or high-occupancy areas, and opening windows or doors when possible and safe to do so can all help improve IAQ.

4 Monitor and evaluate the results

Monitoring and evaluating the results of interventions to improve IAQ in correctional facilities is the fourth step. To do this, you should measure and record temperature, humidity, carbon dioxide, and carbon monoxide levels regularly; sample and test for specific pollutants periodically; collect feedback and data from inmates, staff, and visitors; and review and update policies and procedures to reflect best practices. Comparing the measurements to the baseline and standards will help you determine if changes or improvements have been made. Collecting feedback from inmates, staff, and visitors will provide valuable insights into their satisfaction, comfort, and health. Updating policies and procedures based on lessons learned will ensure that best practices are being followed.

5 Educate and engage stakeholders

Educating and engaging stakeholders is the fifth step to improving IAQ in correctional facilities. Training and information sessions can be provided for inmates, staff, and visitors on the sources, effects, and prevention of indoor air pollution. Posters, flyers, brochures, or newsletters can be created and distributed to highlight the IAQ goals, actions, and outcomes. Establishing committees, teams, or groups to oversee or participate in the IAQ improvement process is also beneficial. Finally, recognizing and rewarding individuals or groups that contribute to the IAQ improvement process can be an effective way to motivate stakeholders.

6 Seek professional assistance

The sixth step to improve IAQ in correctional facilities is to seek professional assistance when necessary or desirable. This may be required when the IAQ assessment reveals complex or serious problems that need expert diagnosis or remediation, or when the improvement involves major changes or upgrades to the building structure or systems that need technical design or installation. Legal, regulatory, or contractual issues may also require legal advice or representation. Additionally, external funding, support, or collaboration may necessitate grant writing or partnership development. Improving IAQ in correctional facilities is an ongoing process that demands commitment, collaboration, and communication among all stakeholders; however, by following these steps, you can make a positive difference in the quality of life and health of inmates and staff in correctional facilities.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?