Indoor air quality problems are not always obvious. Persistent odours, employee complaints, headaches, visible moisture, or concerns about ventilation may indicate underlying issues that require a systematic investigation rather than simply collecting an air sample.
At Western Health & Safety, our Indoor Air Quality Assessments are conducted using an evidence-based approach led by a Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH). We evaluate the building environment, ventilation systems, occupancy patterns, and potential contaminant sources to determine what is affecting indoor air quality and recommend practical solutions. Where appropriate, laboratory testing and environmental sampling can be incorporated into the assessment to provide additional data and support informed decision-making.
Whether you are managing an office building, industrial facility, healthcare environment, educational institution, or commercial property, our goal is to identify the root cause of indoor air quality concerns and provide independent recommendations based on recognized occupational hygiene principles.
At Western Health & Safety, our Indoor Air Quality Assessments are conducted using an evidence-based approach led by a Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH). We evaluate the building environment, ventilation systems, occupancy patterns, and potential contaminant sources to determine what is affecting indoor air quality and recommend practical solutions. Where appropriate, laboratory testing and environmental sampling can be incorporated into the assessment to provide additional data and support informed decision-making.
Whether you are managing an office building, industrial facility, healthcare environment, educational institution, or commercial property, our goal is to identify the root cause of indoor air quality concerns and provide independent recommendations based on recognized occupational hygiene principles.
What Is an Indoor Air Quality Assessment?
An Indoor Air Quality Assessment is a comprehensive investigation of the indoor environment designed to identify factors that may be affecting occupant health, comfort, or building performance.
Unlike standalone air testing, an assessment examines the entire indoor environment before determining whether sampling is necessary. This includes evaluating the building itself, reviewing ventilation performance, understanding occupant concerns, and identifying potential sources of contaminants or moisture.
A thorough assessment considers multiple factors together rather than relying on a single laboratory result. By understanding how the building operates and how occupants interact with the space, we can develop recommendations that address the underlying causes of indoor air quality issues instead of simply treating the symptoms.
Unlike standalone air testing, an assessment examines the entire indoor environment before determining whether sampling is necessary. This includes evaluating the building itself, reviewing ventilation performance, understanding occupant concerns, and identifying potential sources of contaminants or moisture.
A thorough assessment considers multiple factors together rather than relying on a single laboratory result. By understanding how the building operates and how occupants interact with the space, we can develop recommendations that address the underlying causes of indoor air quality issues instead of simply treating the symptoms.
When Should You Schedule an Indoor Air Quality Assessment?
Indoor air quality concerns can develop gradually or appear suddenly following changes to a building or its operation. An assessment may be appropriate when occupants experience recurring symptoms or when environmental conditions raise concerns about the indoor environment. Common reasons to schedule an assessment include:
- Employee complaints of headaches, fatigue, or irritation
- Persistent or unexplained odours
- Water damage or moisture intrusion
- Suspected mould growth
- Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) performance issues
- Renovations or building modifications
- Installation of new flooring, furniture, or finishes
- Concerns about ventilation effectiveness
- Due diligence before purchasing or leasing commercial property
- Investigating recurring occupant comfort complaints
Our Indoor Air Quality Assessment Process
Our assessment process follows a structured methodology based on recognized industrial hygiene practices.
Initial Consultation
We begin by discussing the concerns, building history, occupancy, and any previous investigations or corrective actions.
Building Review
Our consultants conduct a walkthrough inspection to evaluate building conditions, housekeeping practices, potential contaminant sources, and areas of concern.
Occupant Interviews
When appropriate, we gather information from building occupants to better understand reported symptoms, timing, and locations of concerns.
HVAC Evaluation
Ventilation systems play a critical role in indoor air quality. We assess air distribution, outdoor air supply, filtration, and general HVAC performance as part of the investigation.
Environmental Measurements
Field measurements may include temperature, relative humidity, carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, particulate matter, and other environmental parameters depending on the nature of the investigation.
Targeted Sampling
If sampling is warranted, we develop an appropriate strategy based on the assessment findings. This may include airborne mould sampling, volatile organic compound (VOC) testing, particulate sampling, or other specialized investigations.
Laboratory Analysis
Samples are submitted to accredited laboratories for analysis when required.
Interpretation and Reporting
Results are evaluated within the context of the building investigation rather than in isolation. Our reports explain the findings, discuss potential contributing factors, and provide practical recommendations to improve indoor air quality.
Indoor Air Quality Assessment vs. Indoor Air Quality Testing
Although these terms are often used interchangeably, they are not the same.
An Indoor Air Quality Assessment is a comprehensive investigation that examines the building, ventilation systems, occupant concerns, and environmental conditions to determine the likely causes of indoor air quality problems.
Indoor Air Quality Testing is one tool that may be used during that investigation to collect specific environmental data or confirm the presence of particular contaminants.
In many situations, testing alone does not identify why a problem exists. A well-planned assessment ensures that any sampling performed is meaningful, representative, and interpreted within the broader context of the building environment.
An Indoor Air Quality Assessment is a comprehensive investigation that examines the building, ventilation systems, occupant concerns, and environmental conditions to determine the likely causes of indoor air quality problems.
Indoor Air Quality Testing is one tool that may be used during that investigation to collect specific environmental data or confirm the presence of particular contaminants.
In many situations, testing alone does not identify why a problem exists. A well-planned assessment ensures that any sampling performed is meaningful, representative, and interpreted within the broader context of the building environment.
What We Evaluate During an Assessment
Every investigation is tailored to the building and the concerns being reported. Depending on the situation, our assessment may include evaluating:
- Building ventilation and outdoor air supply
- HVAC operation and maintenance
- Temperature and relative humidity
- Airflow and pressure relationships
- Moisture intrusion and water damage
- Visible mould or microbial growth
- Dust accumulation and housekeeping practices
- Potential chemical sources
- Occupancy patterns
- Recent renovations or construction activities
- Building materials and finishes
- Indoor environmental conditions affecting occupant comfort
Indoor Air Quality Assessments for Commercial and Institutional Buildings
Western Health & Safety performs Indoor Air Quality Assessments across a wide range of facilities throughout Calgary, Alberta, and British Columbia. Our experience includes:
- Office buildings
- Commercial properties
- Industrial facilities
- Warehouses
- Healthcare facilities
- Schools and educational institutions
- Municipal buildings
- Multi-unit residential properties
- Retail and hospitality environments
Common Issues Identified During Indoor Air Quality Assessments
Indoor environmental concerns often result from multiple contributing factors rather than a single issue. Examples of conditions identified during assessments include:
- Inadequate outdoor air ventilation
- Poor HVAC maintenance
- Moisture intrusion
- Elevated indoor humidity
- Pressure imbalances between occupied spaces
- Airflow restrictions
- Indoor chemical emissions
- Dust accumulation
- Construction or renovation activities
- Localized mould growth
- Poor filtration performance
What Your Assessment Report Includes
Following the investigation, clients receive a comprehensive report documenting the assessment and our professional findings. Depending on the scope of work, the report may include:
- Executive summary
- Building observations
- Environmental measurements
- Laboratory results (where applicable)
- Photographs
- Discussion of findings
- Applicable guidelines and industry standards
- Practical recommendations
- Suggested corrective actions
- Recommendations for additional investigation, if required
Why Choose Western Health & Safety?
Western Health & Safety is a CIH-led industrial hygiene consulting firm serving Calgary, Alberta, and British Columbia.
Our indoor air quality assessments are conducted independently and are based on recognized occupational hygiene principles rather than product sales or remediation services. This allows us to provide objective recommendations that focus on identifying the root causes of indoor environmental concerns.
Our consultants work with commercial, industrial, institutional, healthcare, educational, and municipal clients to investigate indoor environmental issues, interpret technical findings, and develop practical solutions that improve building performance and occupant well-being.
Our indoor air quality assessments are conducted independently and are based on recognized occupational hygiene principles rather than product sales or remediation services. This allows us to provide objective recommendations that focus on identifying the root causes of indoor environmental concerns.
Our consultants work with commercial, industrial, institutional, healthcare, educational, and municipal clients to investigate indoor environmental issues, interpret technical findings, and develop practical solutions that improve building performance and occupant well-being.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between an indoor air quality assessment and indoor air quality testing?
An assessment is a comprehensive investigation that examines the building, ventilation systems, occupant concerns, and environmental conditions. Testing is one component of that investigation and may be performed when additional environmental data is required.
Do all indoor air quality assessments require air sampling?
No. Many concerns can be investigated through building inspections, HVAC evaluations, and environmental measurements. Sampling is recommended only when it will provide meaningful information to support the investigation.
How long does an indoor air quality assessment take?
The duration depends on the size of the building, the complexity of the concerns, and whether environmental sampling is required. Smaller assessments may be completed within a few hours, while larger investigations may take one or more days.
Can you investigate employee complaints?
Yes. We regularly conduct workplace indoor air quality investigations for employers, building owners, and property managers to evaluate reported occupant concerns and identify contributing environmental factors.
Will I receive a written report?
Yes. Following the assessment, clients receive a detailed report summarizing our findings, environmental measurements, laboratory results (where applicable), and practical recommendations for improving indoor air quality.
Schedule an Indoor Air Quality Assessment
If you are experiencing persistent indoor air quality concerns, unusual odours, ventilation issues, or occupant complaints, Western Health & Safety can provide an independent, CIH-led assessment to help identify the underlying causes.
Contact our team to discuss your building, your concerns, and the most appropriate approach for evaluating your indoor environment.
Contact our team to discuss your building, your concerns, and the most appropriate approach for evaluating your indoor environment.
updated July 2026