Marielle,

I think it is more appropriate to cite a range rather than an average 
time span for allowing building materials to offgas. Factors that 
come into play are the collection type and the kinds of building 
materials used in the construction. If the building was designed to 
house the collection, care should have been taken to choose building 
materials that have a minimum amount of offgassing. 'Green' building 
indoor air quality management plans call for a minimum two week 
building flush-out period using new filters and 100% outside air 
after construction ends. Some plans call for up to three months. 
These plans are generally designed to protect building occupants; 
some pollutants can be damaging to collections at lower 
concentrations. Construction schedules are usually rushed so there 
are also a number of air testing procedures that can be performed 
instead of, or in addition to, a building flush-out. You may want to 
reference "Pollutants in the Museum Environment: Practical Strategies 
for Problem Solving in Design, Exhibition and Storage" by Pamela B. 
Hatchfield, Archetype Publications and "Museum Collection Storage" by 
E. Verner Johnson and Joanne C. Horgan, UNESCO.

Mike

>1. Does anyone know of an average time span to allow a new building 
>to off gas before moving in >collections? (Brand new building-all 
>new materials) Carpet? (There is not much in the space) 
>paint? >Other things to watch out for?
-- 
*****************************************************************
Michael McHugh, AIA
LEED Accredited Professional
E. Verner Johnson and Associates
Museum Architects and Planners
222 Berkeley Street,  Suite 1350
Boston, MA 02116
tel:   617-437-6262
fax:  617-437-1272
http://www.vernerjohnson.com

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