IAQ in Portable Classrooms

are far less likely than permanent classrooms to be healthy environments, according to California’s Air Resources Board and Department of Health Services. During their two-year study, the state found portable classrooms to have inadequate ventilation and lighting levels; elevated particulate matter, moisture, and mold problems; and temperature, humidity, and noise levels outside recommended standards. Of special concern are significant formaldehyde emissions, mostly from pressed-wood furniture, wallboard, and carpeting. Because of inadequate construction budgets, nearly one-third of California classrooms are portable. Details are online at

www.arb.ca.gov.