I propose to take Questions Nos. 231, 232 and 233 together.
The Code of Practice for Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) provides practical guidance on improving and managing indoor air quality in the workplace. It sets out a practical risk assessment approach to be taken to assist employers with making a reasonable determination of IAQ in their workplace. It also provides detailed information on ventilation, air filtration, carbon dioxide monitors and promotes designing out IAQ issues and green procurement and highlights appropriate control measures along with practical checklists and tools for employers.
The Health and Safety Authority (HSA) has overall responsibility for the enforcement of occupational safety and health legislation in Ireland. It monitors compliance with the legislation and can take enforcement action (up to and including prosecutions).
While, to date, no formal assessment has been conducted regarding the awareness levels of employers and employees in the public and private sectors about the Code of Practice for Indoor Air Quality, it has been promoted via the HSA’s normal website and social media channels since its publication in late May 2023. Further promotional initiatives are planned over coming months including more newsletter and social media promotion as well as presentations by the HSA at various conferences and promotion of the Code with relevant key stakeholders.
HSA Inspectors are also raising awareness of the Code of Practice with employers during routine workplace inspections, where appropriate, and inspections addressing IAQ will be included the HSA’s 2024 Programme of Work (which is currently being finalised) with a specific question set developed to enable the collection of data to determine awareness, and implementation of, the Code of Practice.
Furthermore, an IAQ risk assessment is currently being included in the HSA’s BeSmart online tool and will be launched shortly which will further increase awareness levels amongst small businesses.
If employers or employees have any questions regarding the Code of Practice for Indoor Air Quality, they can contact the HSA directly at contactus@hsa.ie or visit Contact Us - Health and Safety Authority (hsa.ie) .
