By Niyas in glossary —

BRI

BRI : Understanding Building-Related Illness for HVAC Professionals

As HVAC professionals, your role extends beyond just maintaining comfortable indoor climates; it also involves ensuring that the air quality in buildings is safe and healthy. Understanding Building-Related Illness (BRI) is crucial in achieving this goal.

Building-Related Illness refers to clinically diagnosable illnesses whose symptoms can be linked to specific airborne pollutants within a building. Unlike Sick Building Syndrome (SBS), where symptoms may vary and are often transient, BRI presents recognizable conditions that can be traced to particular contaminants or sources in the environment.

Common Causes of BRI

  • Legionnaire's Disease: A severe form of pneumonia caused by the Legionella bacteria, often found in poorly maintained water systems.
  • Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis: An inflammatory response in the lungs triggered by inhaling organic dust, molds, or chemicals.
  • Aspergillosis: A fungal infection caused by the Aspergillus species that can thrive in damp and poorly ventilated areas.

Impact of BRI on Indoor Air Quality

The presence of pollutants that lead to BRI highlights the importance of proper HVAC systems in controlling indoor air quality. Regular maintenance, appropriate filtration, and humidity control are essential to prevent the growth of harmful microorganisms.

Actions HVAC Professionals Can Take

  • Regular Maintenance: Conduct thorough checks on HVAC systems to ensure they are functioning correctly, including the inspection of ductwork and water sources.
  • Air Filtration: Utilize high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters to capture smaller particles that could contribute to BRI.
  • Humidity Control: Implement dehumidification strategies to prevent mold and other moisture-related issues.

Conclusion

Understanding and identifying Building-Related Illness is an essential aspect of maintaining healthy indoor environments. As HVAC professionals, your expertise can help mitigate the risks associated with indoor pollutants, ensuring that buildings not only provide thermal comfort but also promote the health and well-being of occupants.