In recent years, the public has
become increasingly aware of biological contamination in the home, public
buildings and the workplace. One of the most pressing concerns involves indoor
air quality (IAQ). Building owners and operators need to protect against the
health and financial threats posed by environmental contaminants such as
bacteria, mold, mildew and other fungi – all frequent contributors to ‘sick
building syndrome’. At least 50% of IAQ problems have been attributed to air
handling and ventilation systems. As such, facility management in hospitals,
and other commercial facilities, has traditionally attacked the problem by
using disinfectants and antimicrobial coatings on the interiors of air handling
systems.