23/02/2018
Guidelines for GOOD INDOOR AIR QUALITY in Office Premises
Endorsed by Institute of Environmental Epidemiology, ENV.
Some Common Indoor Air Contaminants
1. Carbon Dioxide: Carbon dioxide is present in the unpolluted atmosphere at a concentration of about 0.03%, but since about 5% of the air we breathe out are carbon dioxide, the level increases in inadequately ventilation occupied rooms. The level of carbon dioxide is therefore often used to assess the efficiency of ventilation.Outside sources include vehicle exhaust fumes or other exhausts.
2. Carbon Monoxide: Any process of combustion can produce carbon monoxide, including cooking and to***co smoking. A major source or carbon monoxide is vehicle exhaust.
3. Formaldehyde: Formaldehyde is a colorless gas with a pungent odor. It is found in hundreds of different products, including insulation material, ceiling tiles, particle board, plywood, office furniture, carpet glues, various plastic, synthetic fibres in rugs, upholstery and other textiles, pesticides, paint and paper. Levels of emission increase with temperature.
4. Ozone: Ozone is naturally present in the air since it is produced from oxygen by ultraviolet radiation. However, it can also be produced by electrical discharges and is emitted by some items of electrical equipment such as photocopiers and electronic air cleaners (or EP) devices used to clean the air by removing dust.
5. Suspended Particulate Matter: Respirable particles, released from incomplete combustion, can deposit in the respiratory tract or lungs depending upon the size of the particles. Indoor air particulate may come from outdoor or indoor sources. Respirable particulate (10 micrometers and smaller) are those that can pe*****te into the lungs.
6. Voilatile Organic Compounds: Voilatile organic compounds are found in to***co smoke, solvents, inks, glues, paints, room deodorizers, photocopier toners and other organic products used in offices. Furnishings such as carpets and furniture also emit voilatile organic compounds.
7. Biological Contamination: Biological contaminants include bacteria, fungi, viruses, algae, insect parts and dust, which may result in allergenic or pathogenic reactions. There are many sources for these pollutants: pollens from outdoors, viruses and bacteria from humans, hair and skin flakes from household pets. Many biological pollutants can multiply in standing water, in cooling towers, in water-damaged ceilings, walls and carpets. Biological pollutants may be distributed through HVAC system.