Max Sherman on the Evolution of Indoor Air Quality and Ventilation Standards

My Conversation with Max Sherman on the Evolution of Indoor Air Quality and Ventilation Standards

For episode 1 of "Air Quality Matters," I had the privilege of discussing the intricacies of air quality and ventilation with none other than Max Sherman.

Max's contributions to the field are immense, and his insights from over three decades at the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory have helped shape our understanding of indoor air quality.

Max's career, started with his PhD in 1980 on air infiltration in buildings. Over the years, he has been instrumental in shaping research and standards related to air tightness, infiltration, and ventilation. His dedication to the field has been recognised with numerous awards, including the Distinguished Fellow Award and the Exceptional Service Award from ASHRAE.

What Does "Adequate" and "Acceptable" Ventilation Really Mean?

One topic that particularly intrigued me was the definition of "adequate" and "acceptable" in ventilation standards. Max emphasised that to define these terms truly, we must first understand the purpose behind ventilation. Historically, the primary reason for ventilation was to combat the effects of fires and remove harmful combustion by-products. As time progressed, the emphasis shifted towards health, especially after recognising the role of ventilation in reducing infections in medical settings.

By the 20th century, odor control became the main driver for ventilation. If a space didn't smell bad, it was considered well-ventilated. However, the 21st century has ushered in a renewed focus on health and the broader implications of indoor air quality.

Delving into the Science of Odor and Ventilation

The role of odour, especially human body odour, in determining ventilation rates has always been significant. Scientific endeavours, like those undertaken by Povl Ole Fanger, have helped quantify the ventilation required to manage body odour, leading to more standardised rates as we approached the end of the 20th century.

Navigating the Evolving Landscape of Air Quality

Over the last few decades, our understanding of air quality has significantly transformed. The 1970s oil crisis highlighted the importance of energy conservation, leading to tighter building designs and reduced ventilation. This, however, raised valid concerns about the implications for indoor air quality.

Organisations like ASHRAE have been at the forefront of this balancing act, trying to reconcile the demands of energy conservation with the imperatives of health. While initial standards were primarily centred on comfort and air quality, the energy crisis necessitated reevaluating these rates. This dynamic interplay between energy and health has been a recurring theme, with standards evolving based on our growing scientific understanding.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Ventilation and Air Quality

Today's challenges are multifaceted. On one hand, the pressing need for disease control underscores the importance of effective ventilation. On the other, sustainability and energy efficiency remain critical concerns. Max is optimistic that our expanding knowledge base will enable us to strike the right balance, ensuring optimal indoor air quality and energy conservation.

My conversation with Max Sherman was both enlightening and thought-provoking. As we chart the future of our built environments, it's evident that a comprehensive understanding of these factors, underpinned by rigorous scientific research, will be indispensable.

Podcast Episode Available here https://www.buzzsprout.com/2264976/13850287