As we head deeper into the winter months and employees spend more time indoors, maintaining proper indoor air quality (IAQ) becomes critical for efficiency and performance in the workplace. In contrast, poor IAQ can contribute to the spread of illnesses, reduce productivity, and create discomfort, specifically during cold and flu season. By utilizing advanced equipment and technology to monitor IAQ in shared spaces, implementing proper facility maintenance, and optimizing building controls, businesses can create healthier environments for their teams to thrive.
The Impact of Poor Indoor Air Quality
Poor IAQ can have significant effects on employee health and workplace productivity. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), indoor air can be 2 to 5 times more polluted than outdoor air, and in some cases, levels of indoor pollutants may exceed outdoor levels by 100 times. During the winter, when windows are shut and ventilation is often limited, this problem becomes even more apparent.
Health issues caused by poor IAQ include:
- Increased spread of airborne illnesses like colds and the flu
- Increased allergy and asthma symptoms
- Headaches, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating
The consequences for poor IAQ are clear: more sick days, lower employee morale, and a decrease in overall productivity. Studies have shown that poor IAQ can reduce cognitive function by up to 50%, directly impacting performance and productivity in the workplace.
Tools for Monitoring and Managing Indoor Air Quality
In today’s digital world, smart building technology provides tools to seamlessly monitor and manage IAQ effectively:
- Particulate Monitoring Equipment
Devices that measure particulate count in real time allow facility managers to pinpoint areas with poor air quality. High particulate levels can indicate issues such as insufficient filtration, dust buildup, or external pollutants entering the building. - Air Quality Sensors
Sensors can detect carbon dioxide (CO2), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), humidity levels, and other pollutants. Integrating these sensors with building automation systems ensures real-time responses to air quality issues. - Advanced Filtration Systems
High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters can reduce airborne bacteria and viruses. Integrating these systems into HVAC units ensures cleaner air circulation throughout the building.
Best Practices for Sustaining Proper Indoor Air Quality
Maintaining proper IAQ requires ongoing facility maintenance and the right building controls.
- Regular HVAC Maintenance
Schedule routine inspections to ensure that HVAC systems are operating efficiently. Replace filters frequently, especially during high-use seasons, to remove dust, allergens, and pathogens from the air. - Ventilation Optimization
Balance indoor air exchange rates to bring in fresh air while maintaining energy efficiency. Smart building controls can automate this process, adjusting based on occupancy and air quality readings. - Preventative Cleaning Measures
Dust and allergens can accumulate quickly in common areas. Implement a cleaning schedule focusing on high-touch surfaces and hard-to-reach places.
Investing in Healthy Air
An investment in IAQ improvements is also an investment in employee health and wellbeing. Better air quality means healthier, more focused employees who can perform their jobs efficiently and effectively. A Harvard study found that cognitive scores were 61% higher in green building environments with optimized air quality compared to conventional office spaces. Additionally, healthier employees mean fewer sick days, which keeps businesses running smoothly, especially during busy seasons.
By leveraging advanced particulate monitoring, properly maintaining HVAC systems, and optimizing building controls, workplaces can reduce illness, boost productivity, and improve employee well-being.
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Stark Tech is a market leading technology provider, delivering turnkey solutions with master systems integration, equipment, and service, and building analytics that drive sustainability goals and keep facilities on their mission. Stark Tech also manufacturers large, skidded equipment that decarbonizes and reduces greenhouse gas emissions through renewable energy sources and by converting waste into renewable natural gas.
