Even while we are all aware of the pollution in the air and are all trying to eliminate it, we often overlook the fact that, in order to maintain our health, indoor air quality must also be improved. Especially in the summer, we have a tendency to associate air pollution with the outdoors, with smog, ozone, or haze hanging in the air. However, it’s possible for commercial buildings, offices, and other structures to have more contaminated inside air than outdoor air.

 

Like a desk or a leaking faucet, indoor air quality is not a straightforward, clearly defined term. The kinds, quantities, and significance of pollutants in interior spaces are all influenced by a complex interplay of elements that is continually changing. These elements include sources of aromas or pollutants, ventilation system design, upkeep, and operation, wetness and humidity, as well as occupant perceptions and susceptibilities. There are numerous more factors that can influence comfort or how indoor air quality is perceived.

 

When people are in a confined place, they may develop acute illnesses such as headaches, coughing, and other respiratory conditions.

 

This sickness will undoubtedly have an impact on the employees’ productivity at work. In reality, poor indoor air quality in the workplace contributes to increased employee sick days and decreased productivity, according to a 1989 Report by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

 

So here are some pointers for maintaining the office’s cleaner, healthier indoor air quality:

 

 

  • Let fresh air in

 

Open the windows and doors when the outside temperature and humidity level permit. The natural sunlight, temperature, and open-air keep the air circulating and fresh. As time and convenience allow, perform this once a week or every two weeks.

By lowering interior contaminants, natural ventilation can help enhance the quality of the air inside buildings. Natural ventilation examples include:

  • Window and door opening
  • Using window coverings like closed blinds

 

 

  • Clean the septic system

 

To maintain the air quality in crowded offices, hire professional sewer line cleaning companies to inspect and clean your septic system. Also, replace or clean the filter frequently when maintaining your heater or air purifier to stop pollutants from being released back into the air.

 

 

  • Use Air Purifiers

 

HEPA-filter-equipped air purifiers are very effective in removing airborne impurities. The majority of air cleaners don’t capture particle matter but instead, remove gases and other impurities. Filters with activated carbon are required to remove gases and other chemicals.

 

 

  • Smoking Policy

 

Most people nowadays are aware of the dangers smoking poses to their health, as well as the health of those who are exposed to secondhand smoke. Additionally, the expense of maintaining the ventilation system, cleaning smoke-stained furniture and materials, and replacing them can all go up in a place where there is environmental tobacco smoke. Create a smoke-free policy for the area, or work with building management to create smoking areas that are well-ventilated and prevent smoke from circulating through the main ventilation system or into adjacent areas.

 

 

  • Get Indoor Plants

 

Being able to remove pollutants from the air, many plants are referred to as nature’s air purifiers. You should constantly check for and clean any subsequent mold growth because mold frequently forms around plants that receive frequent watering. Indoor plants such as Spider Plant and Golden Pothos are very effective. They also improve the aesthetics and livability of your office.

 

 

  • Check furniture and building supplies

 

Paint, insulation, carpeting, pressed-wood cabinets, and furniture all release trace amounts of pollutants into the air over a surprisingly long period of time. It can do a lot of harm and is a covert pollutant. Furnish your office area with the fewest of these materials possible. Remove outdated items if not needed. Keep the office space hygienic and clean.

 

Conclusion

To summon it up, it is crucial to check the workplace’s air quality in order to increase productivity for both you and your coworkers as well as to lessen health risks. There are various strategies to improve the air quality in the office, preventing the danger of carbon dioxide saturation in places that are busier, like the workplace.