Common Questions & Solutions for Indoor Air Quality
Introduction
In the past couple of decades, research has been conducted on the various components which contribute to air pollution in our environment. One of the major pollutants that is present indoors is indoor air pollutants. These pollutants can have severe adverse effects on any human health, and can even lead to diseases such as asthma, cancer, allergies, and other respiratory illnesses.
It is important to maintain a good level of Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) in order to protect the health of individuals. IAQ can be improved by understanding and identifying the common pollutants which affect the air quality, and taking steps to reduce or eliminate them.
Common Questions & Solutions for Indoor Air Quality
What dangers can indoor air pollution pose?
Indoor air pollution can pose serious health risks, including asthma and other respiratory illnesses, allergies, chemical sensitivities, cancer and other serious illnesses. The most common indoor air pollutants are chemical vapors, dust, molds, mildew, pet dander, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and radon gas. Exposure to these pollutants can cause irritation of the eyes, nose, throat, and lungs, and can even lead to long-term illnesses.
How can indoor air quality be improved?
There are several steps that can be taken to help improve the indoor air quality. These include:
• Keeping the home or office clean. Dust and debris can build up in carpets, on furniture, and other commonly used areas. Regular vacuuming, damp dusting and frequent cleaning can help reduce the amount of pollutants in the air.
• Decreasing the sources of moisture. Mold and mildew need moisture to grow, so reducing humidity by using a dehumidifier, using exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchen, and repairing any obvious water leaks can help reduce this pollutant.
• Ventilating the home with fresh air. Opening windows and doors regularly can help to bring in fresh air, and using filters to remove pollutants can also help.
• Testing and maintaining heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. Ensuring that these systems are working properly is essential in keeping indoor air quality high.
• Removing sources of pollutants such as mold, mildew, and VOCs. If any of these sources are present, then an air purifier can be used, or a professional may need to be called in to help remove them.
• Ensure proper maintenance of indoor plants and smoking is prohibited. Plants and smoking can both be sources of pollutants, so it is important to keep them out of living areas and away from individuals who may be particularly sensitive to pollutants.
• Regularly changing air filters. Air filters are essential in keeping indoor air clean and every 3-6 months they should be replaced to ensure they are working properly.
Conclusion
Indoor air pollution can have serious health consequences, however, there are several steps that can be taken to ensure that the indoor air quality is healthy. Cleaning regularly, decreasing moisture levels, ventilating fresh air, maintaining heating and cooling systems, removing sources of pollutants and regularly replacing air filters are all effective ways to reduce and eliminate indoor air pollution.
