The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Air Pollution Prevention and Control Division, Indoor Environment Management Branch has, since 1995, conducted research into controlling biological contamination in the indoor environment. In this paper four areas of research are discussed: (1) research and development of prevention and control measures for mitigation of indoor air pollutants by biocontaminants; (2) duct cleaning effectiveness for prevention and control of microbial growth on duct materials; (3) investigation and evaluation of antimicrobial treatments as control technologies to reduce ambient exposure; and (4) field testing of sealants and encapsulents used in air duct systems. The conclusions resulting from this body of research are listed to summarise the accomplishments and put into perspective the interrelationships of these areas of investigation in reducing human exposure to biological contamination in the indoor environment.
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