Today we will talk with two experts on IAQ in schools about the magnitude of the problem in American schools and what can be done. In recent years, comparative risk studies performed by EPA's Science Advisory Board (SAB) have consistently ranked indoor air pollution among the top five environmental risks to public health. Most people are aware that outdoor air pollution can impact their health, but indoor air pollution can also have significant and harmful health effects. EPA studies of human exposure to air pollutants indicate that indoor levels of pollutants may be two to five times — and occasionally more than 100 times — higher than outdoor levels. These levels of indoor air pollutants are of particular concern, because most people spend about 90 percent of their time indoors.

Some of the consequences of poor indoor air quality in schools are: increased long-and short-term health problems for students and staff; spread of airborne infectious diseases; degraded student learning environment, which affects comfort and attendance.