When it comes to maintaining health and safety in the workplace, indoor air quality is crucial. This can affect the health, comfort, and well-being of employees. Since most people spend their working hours indoors, air quality should be a priority. Studies done by the EPA have found that indoor environments can have higher pollutant levels than the outdoors.
However, improving air quality indoors can result in higher productivity and decreased risk of getting sick.
Detecting Air Quality Problems
Although every workplace should have optional air quality, it can be challenging to determine indoor air pollution causes. You may only start to notice problems when people begin to experience symptoms. However, a thorough inspection of the ventilation system will allow companies to determine if they are getting sufficient airflow and if filtration systems are working.
It’s also a good idea to test for the presence of air pollutants. Depending on the environment, there may be mold, asbestos, toxic gases, and other workplace chemicals. Air testing kits are a great tool to use.
Improving Workplace Air Quality
If you’re not sure where to get started, these are a few of the factors that will make a difference.
1. Keep the Workplace Clean
A clean workplace is an environment that has a lower level of mold, dust, allergens, and other substances that could spread through the air. Make sure that the workplace is being cleaned regularly. Workplaces that have carpeting or different fabric may need a deeper clean periodically. Consider using eco-friendly products that won’t release chemicals into the workplace.
2. Use an Air-Cleaning Device
Not every workplace needs high-tech devices, but having commercial-grade equipment as appropriate can improve air quality significantly. Air scrubbers, purifiers, and dehumidifiers are a great way to ensure that the air is constantly improved. This may also lead to savings down the road as you may not need to hire professionals.
3. Change HVAC Filters
HVAC systems can be dirty and spread pollutants throughout the workplace. However, having them cleaned regularly is a great way to keep contaminants at bay. The filters should also be changed periodically. This will prevent dust and other pollutants from circulating back to the indoor air. Clogged filters will lead to more problems, so make sure that they’re changed on a scheduled basis.
4. Observe Appropriate Ventilation
Although an HVAC system is a great tool to keep the workplace comfortable, it’s never a bad idea to enjoy the outdoor air. If possible, turn off the HVAC system in warm months and open the windows. This will allow for natural ventilation. When the HVAC system runs, keep the vents unblocked and avoid having furniture and any materials in front of the vents to allow for optimal circulation. Indoor plants naturally absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen into the air. Having office plants makes the workplace more attractive, but it also improves indoor air quality.
5. Conduct Regular Air Tests
Although all of these tips are a great way to improve your air quality, you won’t always know if they’re effective. While you don’t need to test your air quality frequently, giving this a yearly check isn’t a bad idea. Performing an annual indoor air test will allow you to determine if your current methods are effective or not. You can then use this information to adjust your air quality improvement plan and make it more directed and efficient. An air quality test will check humidity levels, ventilation, mold growth, and other concerns.
Monitoring Progress
Air quality is a crucial concern in the workplace. It directly affects the health and well-being of every person who comes into the office. Poor air quality can increase the risk of health problems from respiratory illnesses to infections. Most companies can either try to work on these areas on their own or bring in professionals. However, even with professional help, there are things you can do to promote air quality. These tips will help you understand what’s contributing to your problems and focus your efforts on improving air quality.
References
- gov, Indoor Air Quality, What are the trends in indoor air quality and their effects on human health?
- Bustmold.com, Mold Busters, Leading environmental testing and remediation company in Canada
