A proposed merger will enfold approximately 2,600 members in 20 Canadian and U.S. chapters of the Indoor Air Quality Association (IAQA) into ASHRAE’s broader sweep. This combines the industry association’s training and certification expertise with ASHRAE’s reach as a leading developer of ventilation and IAQ standards.

“This merger is beneficial to both ASHRAE and IAQA in that it strengthens the programs and services of both organizations,” says ASHRAE president Tom Phoenix. “The work of IAQA complements the work of ASHRAE in its standards, research, publications and educational offerings. We now combine our resources to ensure the industry receives the best indoor air quality technical guidance and educational programs possible, which means improved indoor air quality for the world around us.”

Once due diligence is complete, IAQA will be an independent arm of  ASHRAE, retaining its own board of directors. ASHRAE also recently announced the formation of the Indoor Environmental Quality Global Alliance, which included IAQA as a charter member.

“Indoor air quality is vitally important to the health and welfare of people worldwide,” adds Phoenix. “Air quality systems must work harmoniously with other systems in homes and buildings to ensure a healthy and sustainable built environment.”