Esteemed air

July will see leading researchers, innovators, and decision-makers converge on Melbourne to discuss one of the most important aspects of HVAC&R: indoor air quality (IAQ). AIRAH’s Indoor Air Conference 2024 (IAQ24) will feature two days of engaging presentations on IAQ topics ranging from infectious disease control and air quality monitoring to bushfire smoke and humidity control. The major theme of the conference is exploring new and emerging technologies to better understand the science of IAQ. AIRAH CEO Sami Zheng, Affil.AIRAH, says recent events such as the COVID-19 pandemic and extreme bushfires have increased public awareness about the importance of indoor air quality, especially when the air outside isn’t safe to breathe. “During the Black Summer bushfires of 2019–20, millions of people across Australia were forced to seek refuge indoors from thick bushfire smoke,” Zheng says. “Then, just months later, COVID-19 struck, and HVAC systems literally saved lives in both hospitals and residential settings. These events reinforced what professionals in our industry have long known: indoor air quality is vital for human health. “On behalf of AIRAH, I am proud to invite attendees to IAQ24, which sees the leading minds in the field come together to discuss ideas, network, and share cutting-edge research.” The two-day conference counts as 15 hours of continuing professional development. There will be a cocktail function held after each day of the conference.

Take (key)note

Associate Professor Christhina Candido, who directs the SHE (Sustainable and Healthy Environments) Lab at the University of Melbourne’s Faculty of Architecture, Building and Planning, will deliver a keynote speech at IAQ24. Candido is an expert in post-occupancy evaluation, and findings from her work have been used to inform changes in design and operational practices around the world. Her presentation will focus on using end-user experience to optimise the design and performance of buildings, improving sustainability and creating safe and healthy conditions for occupants. The other keynote speaker at IAQ24 is Brendan Crabb from the Macfarlane Burnet Institute for Medical Research and Public Health. In his presentation, Crabb will provide insights into the broader landscape of indoor air quality, encompassing its significance, multifaceted challenges, and the imperative of effective management amid contemporary health and climate-related risks.

A wealth of expertise

Several prominent AIRAH members will be presenting at IAQ24. Sonia Holzheimer, M.AIRAH, will share her extensive experience of managing IAQ in hot and humid climates, where mould and condensation present major challenges. Claire Bird, Affil.AIRAH and Associate Director of AIRAH’s Indoor Air Quality Special Technical Group, will co-present with Belinda Badger, Affil.AIRAH, on assessing the success of IAQ interventions. Dino Pisaniello, Affil.AIRAH, will present on mitigating semi-volatile compounds from bushfire smoke using multimodal air purification systems, while Gregor Riese, Affil.AIRAH, will take a detailed look at updates to filter classifications within Australian Standards. Brad Prezant, Affil.AIRAH, will deliver a fascinating insight into air movement pathways within and around buildings, Patrick Chambers, Affil.AIRAH, will challenge industry conventions around IAQ, and Mohamed Mahmoud, Stud.AIRAH, will examine IAQ in stale classroom environments.

Don’t miss out

You can register for IAQ24 at airah.org.au/iaq/2024/register. Discounted early-bird tickets are available until May 31.