To learn about improving indoor air quality in your home or workplace, the UVI Cooperative Extension Service Natural Resources Program is inviting health professionals and other interested agencies and individuals to participate in an Indoor Air Quality Training Workshop to be held March 13 on St. Thomas and March 14 on St. Croix. National trainers from Rutgers and Cornell Universities will be conducting the Indoor Air Quality Training Workshop to provide information about:
1. Moisture & Biologicals – Molds, mildew, dust mites and bugs, sources include high humidity, poorly-maintained air conditioners, inadequate ventilation
2. Formaldehyde – sources include textiles, particle board products, carpeting and other furnishings
3. Asthma – the Virgin Islands has a particularly high incidence of asthma and other respiratory ailments
4. Household products – many chemicals found in common household products can potentially cause health effects and pollution problems
5. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) – from paints, solvents, air fresheners, hobby supplies, dry-cleaned clothing, aerosol sprays, adhesives and fabric additives
6. Combustion products – sources include unvented gas stoves and ovens, and other fuel-burning appliances.
The Indoor Air Quality Training Workshop will be held:
March 13 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Room 210 (Exercise Room), UVI Sports & Fitness Complex, St. Thomas;
March 14 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Room 133, UVI Research & Extension Building, St. Croix.
This workshop is part of the national Healthy Indoor Air for America's Homes program co-sponsored by the USDA Cooperative State Research Education and Extension Service, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and the American Lung Association. The goal of the program is to protect public health by reducing risks associated with indoor air contamination.
Space is limited, so please contact UVI-CES at 693-1080 to register. The workshops are free and open to the public. If you have any questions about the workshop, please contact Julie Wright at 693-1082, or jwright@uvi.edu. Information on the program can also be accessed at the Healthy Indoor Air for America's Homes Web site.
For more on the University of the Virgin Islands, visit the Web site at www.uvi.edu.
