BSRIA is a test, instruments, research and consultancy organisation, providing specialist services in construction and building services based in the UK.

As a non-profit distributing, member-based association, clients are assured of an independent approach and authoritative reputation. Any profits made are invested in its on-going research program, producing industry recognised best practice guidance.

Recently BSRIA announced the release of its new free to download topic guide on the subject of Indoor Air Quality (IAQ).

The BSRIA Topic Guides are designed to be an ‘at a glance publication’ introducing readers to key industry topics and suggesting further reading.

The guide is aimed at those looking for introductory information about indoor air quality including definition, history and prevalence. There is also information on types of contaminants and their exposure limits as well as providing readers with a useful site map.

Expert commentary is provided by BSRIA’s Asset Performance Team Leader, Blanca Beato-Arribas, who said: “People spend approximately 80 per cent of their time indoors. There is enough evidence that links poor air quality with permanent damages to health or even death.  Therefore, we should be aware of the quality of the air that we breathe both at home and at work, and ensuring good indoor air quality at work should be a priority for employers.

This guide provides a brief insight into the most common contaminants, both from indoor sources and external sources, and what the exposure limits to these contaminants are. It also provides a summary of the current legislation and a guide map of what contaminants to investigate.”

BSRIA (owned by The Building Services Research and Information Association) was founded in 1955 and had a turnover of £13.9 million in 2015-16. We employ over 200 people at our head office in Bracknell (UK), at regionally based construction compliance offices throughout the UK; at offices in France, Spain, China, USA; and Associates in Northern Ireland, Japan, Brazil and Australia.