7 Ways to Improve Air Quality in the Office

Mondays are the biggest horror for many who work in offices—having to go back! You must make a concerted effort to be productive at work and to put an end to your idleness! You may be surprised to learn that breathing clean air can make every day at work, not just Mondays, miraculously better. We'll address ways to enhance indoor air quality in offices in this blog. Let's investigate to learn more!

What is indoor air pollution?

Indoor air pollution refers to the presence of chemical, biological, and physical contaminants inside any structure. Pollens, fur from animals, bacteria, viruses, carbon monoxide, particulate matter, volatile organic compounds, radon, and so on are examples of pollutants. The impact that indoor air quality has on an individual's comfort, productivity, and well-being is measured. Students' intellectual achievement may be impacted by poor indoor air quality in classrooms.

A few signs of poor air quality within the building include common colds and coughs, sneezing, weariness, memory loss, and dizziness. Poor indoor air quality might also result in sick building syndrome. Additionally, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has noted that lower productivity and impacted worker well-being can lead to absenteeism, which hinders economic growth.

But don't worry too much—the previously described side effects are mostly manageable and transient. As they say, "Prevention is better than cure." Here are some tips for improving indoor air quality in the office.

What are the ways to improve indoor air quality at the office?

Proper ventilation

When purchasing a new workplace, opt for an open floor layout to improve airflow. For natural ventilation that promotes cross-ventilation and lowers indoor pollutants, make sure there are enough windows and skylights. Air ducts and vents should be strategically placed for optimal fresh air distribution and maintained regularly. Placing any furniture in front of windows of air vents will obstruct the cross-ventilation. Use large windows and reflecting surfaces to let in as much natural light as possible.

One of the most important things to remember is that central air conditioning and heating systems' ducts need to be regularly serviced and fixed when needed. The office is kept free of dust particles thanks to these duct systems. Furthermore, this practice will aid in inhibiting the inevitable growth of mold within a hard surface. Additionally, rat infestations can occur in ducts. Numerous infections and illnesses are spread by rodents. Furthermore, infrequent duct cleaning can lead to an excessive build-up of dust and dirt particles, which can allow particulates to enter the office.

To keep the flow of healthy air in restrooms and pantry areas, engineers should install exhaust fans. Radon levels in basement offices can also be decreased via passive systems and radon ventilation fans.

Air Purifiers

In areas with the lowest ambient air quality, opening windows and doors for cross-ventilation can be difficult. It's also challenging to open them during the bitterly cold winters. Air purifiers can help in these situations.

Conveniently, air purifiers almost completely remove all harmful substances from indoor air. Good HEPA filters on air purifiers are sufficient for removing contaminants from the air. While the majority of air purifiers simply remove particulate matter (PM), those with carbon filters are also capable of removing gases and chemicals including SOX, NOx, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

You must also consider in investing in high-efficiency HVAC systems equipped with HEPA filters to trap airborne particles and pollutants. Modern HVAC systems can also regulate temperature and humidity, contributing to a healthier indoor environment. More recently, researchers from IIT Kanpur, IIT Bombay, and IISc Bangalore have developed an innovative air purifier called AIRTH Air Purifier that upgrades AC into an air purifier and removes all harmful air pollutants, germs, bacteria, PM2.5, and PM10 pollutants from indoor air. These air purifiers also contain HEPA filters.  

The filter's hygiene must be maintained, just as the duct systems. It may become clogged if not properly maintained, disrupting the airflow and its functionality. Thus, after six to twelve months, the office cleaning department should clean the filters or, if feasible, replace them.

Humidifiers

The ideal range for office humidity is between 30 and 50 per cent. This series aids in controlling mould, dust mites, and other allergies. While cool-mist humidifiers are primarily utilized in the winter when the air is dry, they are employed in both the summer and winter seasons. A humidifier can assist in regulating the humidity levels in space during the summer months because of the intense, sticky heat. Humidifiers help maintain the proper humidity levels in a space when the air is made dry by an air conditioner or heater.

Smart Selection of Furniture

To reduce indoor air pollution in the office, choose furniture with low-emission materials and finishes. Seek out items that have been approved by reliable environmental certification programs such as GREENGUARD or Green Seal, which guarantee minimal concentrations of volatile organic compounds). Choose solid wood furniture over pressed wood or particleboard, as they often contain formaldehyde.

Select furniture that has natural finishes, such as water-based varnishes or natural oils, and stay away from pieces that have undergone intensive chemical treatments. Think about purchasing furniture constructed from sustainable materials like bamboo or repurposed wood. When installing new furniture, make sure there is adequate ventilation to dissipate any early off-gassing, and clean and maintain the furniture regularly to reduce dust and allergy collection.

Correct Selection of Cleaning Products

Organizations should avoid using air fresheners and potent disinfectants with high chemical levels, as these products often contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and aromatic polyhydrocarbons. These substances can irritate the lungs and lead to severe health consequences. Instead, opting for herbal disinfectants is a safer choice.

Herbal disinfectants are made from natural ingredients that effectively clean and sanitize without releasing harmful chemicals into the air. By using these natural alternatives, organizations can maintain a healthier indoor environment, reduce air pollution, and protect the well-being of employees and visitors from the adverse effects of chemical exposure.

Following EHS standards in an organization

Workers should diligently adhere to the guidelines established by the organization's EHS for their safety. First of all, smoking inside the office should be unacceptable. The smoke from cigarettes has an equal impact on both active and passive smokers. Second, anyone suffering from a cough or ordinary cold should stay away from the office. Coworkers who are afflicted may get the infection or allergies from the affected individual.

Finally, the EHS team ought to hold programs to support improving lung health. They can use breathing exercises or pranayama to check your breathing and refresh your thoughts.

Enhancing Your Office with a Green Touch 

Indoor plants are natural air purifiers of indoor air pollution. These indoor plants can absorb toxins from the air. Many indoor plants have a gift to absorb hazardous contaminants such as benzene, xylene, formaldehyde and carbon monoxide, for example, snake plants and pothos. These solutions can improve the air quality very effectively and boost the employees' productivity and outcomes. Adding a green wall in the interiors will not only help to improve the indoor air quality but will also give an aesthetic look to the office. Indoor plants create a calming, nature-inspired atmosphere! 

Conclusion 

Good indoor air quality helps for creating a healthier, and more productive work environment. Taking simple measures such as keeping low-emission furniture, choosing eco-friendly cleaning products, introducing indoor plants, and proper ventilation can effectively reduce indoor pollutants.

These steps not only enhance the well-being and comfort of employees but also contribute to higher productivity and overall job satisfaction. Remember, a cleaner air environment is not just a healthier choice; it's a smarter investment in your team's success and happiness.