Improve indoor air quality to positively impact the health and productivity of your building occupants and the financial success of the building owner.
Research from the Harvard Business Review highlights the connection between poor indoor air quality and decreased productivity in the workplace, making it more important than ever to focus on improving indoor air quality (IAQ) in commercial buildings.
Studies have shown that poor IAQ can lead to a variety of health problems, such as respiratory issues, headaches, and fatigue, which can result in increased absenteeism and decreased productivity. Improving IAQ, on the other hand, can help to reduce the incidence of these health problems and increase the comfort and well-being of building occupants.
In addition to the health benefits, improving IAQ can also provide economic benefits for building owners. For example, increasing the amount of fresh air in a building can help to reduce energy costs by reducing the need for heating and cooling. Investing in IAQ improvements can extend the life of HVAC equipment by reducing the buildup of contaminants in the system.
Here are nine ways to improve IAQ.
- Increase the amount of fresh air through mechanical ventilation systems or natural ventilation.
- Install high-efficiency filters in the HVAC system to help remove particles, allergens, and other contaminants from the air.
- Perform regular maintenance of the HVAC system, including cleaning or changing filters, to help maintain optimal indoor air quality.
- When purchasing new building materials and furnishings use products with low-emitting VOCs.
- Prevent and address mold growth. Repair leaks or water damage promptly and schedule regular maintenance and cleaning of HVAC systems, ductwork, carpets, and upholstery.
- Enhance your HVAC system with humidity monitoring and controls.
- Consider adding an air purification system.
- Use UV Light Technology to help to kill mold, bacteria, and other harmful pathogens.
- Conduct indoor air quality testing to identify areas where improvements can be made and to monitor the effectiveness of HVAC system upgrades and other IAQ initiatives.
The health and economic benefits of improving IAQ in commercial buildings cannot be overstated. With research linking poor indoor air quality to decreased productivity in the workplace, facilities managers and building owners must focus on IAQ and take the necessary steps to improve it. By taking action to increase fresh air, reduce contaminants, and maintain proper cleaning and maintenance, building owners can enhance the health, comfort, and productivity of building occupants and improve their financial bottom line.
Contact us to discuss how to approach improving indoor air quality in your facility.
