Given the recent out-of-control wildfires in the Western Cape, the following public ASHRAE Journal podcast is appropriate to the South African audience, even though most of the references are US and Canadian.
Part one of seven. Image supplied by Image by azerbaijan_stockers on Freepik
A panel discussion was hosted by ASHRAE, where experts discuss the critical topic of protecting building occupants from smoke during wildfire and prescribed burn events. This is part one of a seven-part series.
The panel consists of:
- Daniel Bourque, host and professional engineer from Halifax, Canada
- Greg Nilsson, technical officer at the National Research Council of Canada. He actively researches technologies enhancing indoor air quality, with a specific focus on wildfire smoke since 2017
- Rebecca Schmidt, a professor and molecular epidemiologist at the University of California. She studies the health effects of various exposures during pregnancy, including wildfire smoke and air quality issues
Together, they shed light on ASHRAE Guideline 44P, a proposed framework addressing the challenges posed by wildfire smoke and its impact on indoor air quality. With the increasing frequency of wildfires in unexpected regions, the panel delves into the importance of seeking guidance from ASHRAE during such crises.
Schmidt addresses the health concerns associated with wildfire smoke, emphasising the elevated levels of air pollution during these events. She explains that both short-term and long-term health effects can result from exposure to wildfire smoke, even at considerable distances from the fire source.
Bourque poses a crucial question about the distinction between acute exposure, such as driving through flames and exposure at a distance. Rebecca clarifies that while the components of smoke may vary based on proximity to the fire, the health risks associated with exposure, such as inflammation and respiratory issues, remain significant regardless of the distance.
ASHRAE’s response: guideline 44P
With a focus on indoor air quality, Bourque highlights the usual reliance on ASHRAE for guidance. However, when outdoor air becomes compromised by wildfire smoke, ASHRAE has taken proactive steps. Bourque introduces guideline 44P, a proposed framework designed to provide recommendations and strategies for safeguarding building occupants during wildfire and prescribed burn events.
Continued in part two…
Source
Live webcast on ASHRAE website
