Despite the significant risks to health, productivity, mood, and well-being associated with indoor air pollution, poor IAQ is often an invisible threat in public and commercial buildings in Canada. Contaminants, ranging from submicron particles to harmful gases, can accumulate indoors and affect everything from cognitive performance to long-term respiratory health.
A new guide by Camfil Canada’s team of commercial air quality specialists dives into the importance of monitoring and improving IAQ, providing tips for creating healthier spaces for both public and professional environments.
The Hidden Dangers of Poor IAQ
Even if the air appears clean, billions of microscopic particles could be entering your lungs every second —95% to 99% of the particles in the air are submicron and not visible to the naked eye. These include harmful pollutants like PM2.5 and PM1 particles, which are small enough to penetrate deep into your cardiovascular system, posing serious health risks. Additionally, gases like carbon dioxide (CO2) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), emitted from furniture, cleaning products, or even human respiration, can silently decrease indoor air quality.
Why Regular Air Quality Monitoring Matters
With so many invisible threats, regular air quality monitoring is essential. It’s not just about identifying problems—it’s also about taking proactive steps to create a healthier, more sustainable environment. Monitoring IAQ allows building managers, employers, and homeowners to detect harmful particles and gases, ensuring timely intervention.
Monitoring IAQ isn’t just a health initiative—it’s a productivity booster. Studies show that clean air can enhance employee satisfaction, improve concentration, and reduce fatigue. By addressing air quality issues, workplaces can see significant improvements in performance and morale, making it an investment in both people and productivity.
Key Pollutants to Watch
Understanding which pollutants to monitor is crucial. PM2.5 particles are a common focus, as they’re small enough to cause respiratory problems. However, PM1 particles, which are even smaller, pose an equally significant risk because they can penetrate deeper into the body. Many air quality monitors emphasize PM2.5, but keeping an eye on PM1 is just as critical for comprehensive air quality management.
In addition to particles, CO2 and VOCs are of major concern. High CO2 levels, often caused by poor ventilation, can lead to cognitive decline, fatigue, and headaches. VOCs, emitted from everyday items like furniture or cleaning agents, can contribute to respiratory issues and other health risks. Regular monitoring ensures these pollutants are kept in check, promoting a safer indoor environment.
Steps to Improve IAQ
Improving indoor air quality starts with awareness. Installing advanced air quality monitors can help track levels of PM1, PM2.5, CO2, and VOCs, providing actionable insights. Ventilation and proper airflow also play a key role. Additionally, choosing low-VOC furniture and cleaning products can minimize the release of harmful compounds indoors.
By prioritizing IAQ, commercial building managers can create environments that support health, sustainability, and productivity for all building users. For an in-depth understanding of the full impact of IAQ and how to monitor and improve it, read Camfil Canada’s full article.
About Camfil Canada Clean Air Solutions
For more than 60 years, Camfil has been helping people breathe cleaner air. As a leading manufacturer of premium clean air solutions, we provide commercial and industrial systems for air filtration and air pollution control that improve worker and equipment productivity, minimize energy use, and benefit human health and the environment. Read more about Camfil Canada.
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Media Contact:
Phillip Ilijevski
Camfil Canada Inc.
T: 437-929-1161
Website of Source: https://www.camfil.com/en-ca/
Published by: Berni Baier Marketing
Source: Camfil - Canada
Release ID: 1249993