ASHRAE releases IAQ guidelines for bushfire smoke

ASHRAE has published a new resource designed to safeguard indoor air quality (IAQ) during wildfire or bushfire events.

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 the health risks associated with prolonged exposure to wildfire and prescribed burn smoke.

“The frequency, intensity and duration of wildland fire events have grown significantly in recent years, threatening air quality and public health,” says 2024-25 ASHRAE President M Dennis Knight.

“This guideline equips building professionals with comprehensive recommendations to mitigate smoke intrusion and maintain healthier indoor environments. Protecting building occupants from the harmful effects of wildfire smoke is critical to preserving their health and overall wellbeing.”

Key features of the guideline

• Applicability: Designed for commercial buildings, institutional facilities (including healthcare), multi-unit 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, such as children and the elderly.
• 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.

The guideline is available for purchase at: ashrae.org/bookstore.