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Ensuring optimal indoor air quality (IAQ) plays a key role in creating a healthy and comfortable environment for work or living, whether it is an office building, a residential apartment, a supermarket or any other premises. Why is it important to prevent it from deteriorating, what are the consequences of poor air quality and what strategies can be implemented to improve indoor air quality?
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The Covid-19 pandemic has brought to the fore the importance of good ventilation and indoor air filtration, and airborne disease transmission has sparked discussions about workplace safety.
In the current modern, post-pandemic reality, managing indoor air quality is more important than ever, especially in boosting the confidence of employees who are hesitant to return to offices.
Indoor air quality can be defined as the condition of the air in and around enclosed spaces and structures where people work, study and live. Influenced by many factors, including the presence of pollutants, humidity levels, temperature and ventilation, indoor air quality plays a key role in determining the health and comfort of occupants.
With the proliferation of the hybrid model of work, offices are beginning to be used more and more flexibly, which necessitates the implementation of controlled ventilation, adapting to occupancy levels. In addition to reactive, IAQ management should also include proactive measures to create sustainable, healthy and productive workspaces.
In addition to ensuring a safe and healthy environment, proper maintenance of indoor air quality management systems can also help minimize energy consumption.
Poor air quality can lead to unpleasant consequences for both the occupants and the space itself.
Elevated levels of pollutants in indoor air can cause numerous health problems for residents such as respiratory diseases, allergies, headaches, concentration problems, dizziness, fatigue and others.
Insufficient ventilation can lead to increased humidity levels and condensation on various surfaces such as windows, walls and ceilings. Prolonged exposure to increased humidity creates an environment highly conducive to the emergence and spread of mold, which can pose a risk to the structural integrity of the building. The slow air exchange rate further accelerates the deterioration of some basic building materials, in the form of rot and corrosion, which compromises the structural integrity of the building. Dealing with these problems requires significant investments in repairs and renovation, resulting in a large financial burden for owners.
Strategies to improve air quality include identifying sources of pollution, as well as evaluating the efficiency of the HVAC system. Maintaining proper air exchange is paramount to ensuring the protection of occupants and the building itself. The strategies also include:
The building's exterior elements are critical to maintaining energy efficiency, preventing moisture infiltration, and ensuring healthy air quality. Regularly inspect and evaluate the building envelope, including roof, walls, foundation, windows, etc. Check for water leaks, visible wet areas, and seals around doors and windows. If problems are found, take appropriate measures to eliminate them.
Balanced ventilation ensures a constant and controlled exchange of indoor and outdoor air. This helps to remove pollutants, allergens and stale air from the indoor environment, contributing to better indoor air quality. Well-functioning HVAC systems also filter and purify the air, reducing the risk of respiratory and other health problems.
High humidity can lead to mold, mites and other allergens. Controlling temperature and humidity can prevent the survival and transmission of airborne pathogens, including viruses and bacteria, and can also dust mite infestations and other pests. There are various temperature and humidity control options, part of which are temperature and humidity sensors and smart thermostats.
Carbon dioxide levels can serve as an indicator of ventilation efficiency and help identify potential problems. In addition to traditional monitoring, more sophisticated options such as occupancy sensors are now available, which can adjust the ventilation rate based on real-time carbon dioxide levels.
Performing routine maintenance of heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems is critical to ensuring good indoor air quality. Taking the basic steps of cleaning and/or replacing air filters, checking and cleaning coils, fans, switches and thermostats plays a key role in ensuring optimal indoor air quality.
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