When should an indoor air quality assessment be commissioned for a workplace?

An indoor air quality assessment should be commissioned whenever there’s a reasonable concern that air conditions may be affecting health, comfort, or compliance. The most common trigger is employee complaints — things like persistent headaches, eye irritation, musty smells, or feeling unusually tired at work.

Assessments are also advisable after building changes, such as refurbishments, new flooring, changes to ventilation systems, or increased occupancy. Even well-intentioned upgrades can unintentionally reduce fresh air or introduce new sources of airborne contaminants.

If a workplace has experienced water leaks, flooding, or condensation problems, an IAQ assessment becomes particularly important. These conditions can support mould growth, often hidden behind walls or ceilings.

From a proactive standpoint, many organisations commission assessments as part of routine health and safety management, especially in higher-risk environments or where evidence may be required for audits or internal reporting. It’s always easier to justify action when you already have reliable data in hand.