ASHRAE Releases New Guideline to Protect IAQ from Wildfires

ASHRAE has published a new resource aimed at protecting indoor air quality during wildfires. 

The guideline, ASHRAE Guideline, 44-2024, Protecting Building Occupants from Smoke During Wildfire and Prescribed Burn Events, outlines best practices for building design, operation and maintenance to reduce potential health risks that come from being exposed to wildfire and prescribed burn smoke for long periods of times.  

Key features include: 

Applicability: Designed for commercial buildings, institutional facilities (including healthcare), multiunit residential buildings and designated safe spaces for temporary occupancy during smoke events. 

Focus on Vulnerable Populations: Includes tailored recommendations for spaces occupied by at-risk groups. 

Comprehensive Guidance on Best Practices: Considerations during design phase for new and retrofits, as well as the installation, commissioning, operation and maintenance of building envelopes, ventilation systems and air-cleaning technologies to mitigate smoke infiltration and improve IAQ.