The quality of indoor air in buildings has become a significant health and environmental issue, and with phenomena’s such as Sick Building Syndrome becoming more prevalent - frequent indoor air quality testing is an absolute necessity.
In this article, we will discuss the types of contaminants found in buildings. In our following article, we’ll discuss how to test for these contaminants.
There are several ways to test indoor air quality (IAQ) in a building, however, the specific method depends on which air pollutant is the primary concern.
Biological pollutants include:
Although mould is seen as the most detrimental biological pollutant, dust mites and pollen can trigger asthma and are harmful to individuals with allergies.
It’s important to understand that an increased presence and exposure to these pollutants can lead to considerable short-term and long-term health issues.
Humid areas are breeding grounds for mould and dust mites – therefore keeping humidity down in buildings is key to managing biological pollutants.
Additionally, air purifiers and regularly sanitising areas is also advised. However, having air filters with multiple stages of technology are the most effective at removing biological contaminants from indoor spaces.
VOCs are vapours/gases that contain carbon and are volatile by nature. They the most common contaminant and can be found in various products used in office and industrial buildings, including:
Long-term exposure leads to nervous system damage as well as kidney and liver damage. Short-term exposure has been linked to issues such as – headaches, allergic skin reactions, nausea, dizziness, and respiratory problems.
Increased ventilation and appropriate disposal of VOC heavy products is critical in managing these chemical pollutants; however, high-quality air filters are the most effective at removing damaging VOCs from a building’s indoor air.
Frequently found in glues, paints, paper products, cosmetics, and medicines – Formaldehyde is a common carcinogen.
Increased ventilation can help to filter out this toxin, however, an effective HVAC equipped with high-quality air filters is the best way to remove Formaldehyde.
Typically used in pipes and paint, Lead is often found in old buildings where lead-based paints have been used.
Once Lead is airborne, it causes extreme respiratory problems. High concentrations can lead to a coma, convulsions, and death.
A high-quality HVAC system combined with HEPA filters is an effective method used in filtering out lead and other VOCs.
Radon, like Oxygen, is colourless and largely undetectable. It is a radioactive element that is present when uranium breaks down in soil.
Long-term, high concentration exposure leads to lung damage and eventually results in lung cancer.
Tobacco smoke otherwise referred to as second-hand smoke is known to cause lung cancer. Allowing staff to smoke indoors or near high traffic areas leads to high air pollution and has an immediate impact on general respiratory health.
Carbon Monoxide is caused by gas space heaters, wood stoves, gas stoves, and unvented kerosene. Exposure to high concentrations can lead to unconsciousness and death.
Carbon monoxide contamination is common as every building requires a heat source. It’s important that a carbon monoxide detector is installed close to each heat source to monitor and maintain safe levels.
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