In major cities all around the world, people spend as much as 90% of their time indoors whether this be in the workplace with mechanical ventilation systems and artificial lighting or at home. Since people spend so much time indoors, it is essential that these spaces have high air quality to protect human health and ensure comfort.
Perspectives on Indoor Air Quality in Australia
The term ‘sick building syndrome’ (SBS) is often used to describe chronic symptoms that appear to be linked to the amount of time spent in a building or enclosed space, but no specific illness or cause can be identified. Short-term symptoms include irritation of the skin, eyes and throat, headaches and nausea, while longer-term symptoms include respiratory disease or cancer which may be caused by long term exposure to chemicals, such as formaldehyde and microscopic fibres such as asbestos.
The result of the symptoms and conditions can consequently cause an increase in sickness absenteeism and/or a decrease in worker productivity. As a result, businesses are increasingly interested in air quality and indoor environment monitoring systems to ensure worker health as well as assist with ensuring optimal working conditions and to maximise worker productivity.
Causes of Poor Indoor Air Quality
Poor indoor air quality in the workplace is largely driven by factors such as:
- Airborne contaminants – Excessive dust, gases, vapours and fumes indoors can seriously impact the health of individuals. Depending on the substance, they can have a range of negative effects from headaches and nausea in the short term to certain cancers due to long term exposure.
- Temperature and humidity – These factors predominately influence the comfort of an indoor environment but also can contribute to hazards such as mould growth.
- Poor ventilation – Restricted air flow in an indoor space is often the main contributor to inadequate indoor air quality because it results in the accumulation of airborne contaminants, increases moisture content in the air and prevents cooling. Lack of ventilation in an area can also increase the likelihood of viruses spreading through airborne exposure.
Improving and Monitoring Indoor Air Quality
Fortunately, there are plenty of ways that indoor air quality can be improved. The first step is to undertake an indoor air quality assessment to determine whether relevant indoor air quality guidelines are met. These assessments are generally undertaken by occupational hygienists or HVAC (heating, ventilation and air-conditioning) professionals. Once an assessment has been completed, mitigation measures can be undertaken to improve indoor air quality. Monitoring can also be implemented to ensure ongoing compliance with best practice for indoor air quality.
Air-Met Scientific offers a range of indoor air quality monitoring solutions for sale, rental and service including carbon dioxide monitors, indoor air quality meters and anemometers to aid in maintaining safe, healthy and energy efficient workplaces. For more information, contact your local Air-Met Scientific today.