Government of Canada invests in state-of-the-art NRC Indoor Air Research Laboratory

June 04, 2009

Laboratory helps construction industry innovate and commercialize technology that improves indoor air quality

June 04, 2009, Ottawa, Ontario  - Canadians will have a better understanding of the impact of indoor air quality on their health, especially the health of children and adults with asthma, thanks to a new Indoor Air Research Laboratory opened today at the National Research Council (NRC)'s Institute for Research in Construction by the Honourable Gary Goodyear, Minister of State (Science and Technology). The lab will help contribute to better respiratory health by providing a state-of-the-art testing facility for ventilation systems.

 "Our government is investing in science, technology and research that improves the lives of Canadians, creates jobs and strengthens the economy," said Minister Goodyear. "The new Indoor Air Research Laboratory will give health experts and the construction industry an insight on how indoor air quality affects our health, while helping businesses develop highly skilled people and improve their competitiveness."

Researchers at the Indoor Air Research Laboratory will measure and evaluate the impact of various ventilation systems by configuring the laboratory's flexible modules to duplicate specific room sizes and home designs, as well as simulate models of heating and air-conditioning systems and heat-recovery ventilators.

The NRC Indoor Air initiative represents an $8 million investment over four years by the Government of Canada of which $2 million is dedicated to the NRC Indoor Air Research Facility. The initiative is a part of the Government's Clean Air Agenda, which commits money and resources for government, industry and communities to work together to improve air quality.

"This investment in the new NRC Indoor Air Research Laboratory will help the Canadian construction industry and consumers choose innovative, energy-efficient and affordable products that will improve air quality at home and at work," said NRC President Dr. Pierre Coulombe. "Through government, industry and university partnerships, NRC is helping innovative Canadian businesses grow stronger, faster, and bigger."

The National Research Council of Canada (NRC) is a leader in the development of an innovative, knowledge-based economy for Canada through science and technology.