In today’s workplaces, air quality is more than just a buzzword; it’s a critical aspect of employee health and productivity. As a business owner, it’s essential that you are aware of the common contaminants that can compromise your employees’ and visitors’ indoor air quality, and the steps you need to take to mitigate these risks. Poor air quality in the workplace can lead to a range of health issues, decreased productivity, and increased absenteeism. In this blog, we’ll explore the most prevalent air quality contaminants, their sources, the associated health risks, and easy ways for your business to improve your indoor air quality and protect those around you.
Table of Contents
Common Air Quality Contaminants in the Workplace
1. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
Sources
VOCs are among the most common indoor air pollutants in workplaces. They are emitted as gases from certain solids or liquids, including office furniture, carpets, paints, adhesives, cleaning agents, and office equipment like printers and photocopiers. Formaldehyde, benzene, and toluene are some of the most prevalent VOCs found in indoor environments.
Health Impacts
Exposure to high levels of VOCs can lead to a variety of health issues, ranging from short-term effects such as headaches, dizziness, and irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat, to more serious long-term conditions like liver and kidney damage, respiratory issues, and even cancer. Workers who spend prolonged periods in environments with high VOC levels are particularly at risk.
2. Particulate Matter (PM)
Sources
Particulate matter, especially PM2.5 and PM10 (particles with diameters of 2.5 micrometres or less and 10 micrometres or less, respectively), can come from various sources within the workplace. These include dust from construction or renovation work, emissions from heating and cooling systems, combustion processes, smoking, and even from outdoor air pollution that infiltrates indoor spaces.
Health Impacts
Inhalation of fine particulate matter can cause serious respiratory issues, including asthma, bronchitis, and other chronic lung diseases. It can also exacerbate cardiovascular conditions, leading to increased hospital admissions and even premature death in severe cases. The smaller the particles, the deeper they can penetrate the lungs and bloodstream, causing systemic health problems.
3. Biological Contaminants
Sources
Biological contaminants include bacteria, viruses, moulds, pollen, and animal dander. These pollutants are often introduced into the workplace through HVAC systems, damp areas, or via the staff themselves. Inadequate cleaning, poor ventilation, and high humidity levels can exacerbate the proliferation of biological contaminants.
Health Impacts
Exposure to biological contaminants can lead to a range of health issues, from allergic reactions, asthma attacks, and respiratory infections to more severe conditions like Legionnaires’ disease. Mould exposure can cause significant health problems, especially in individuals with compromised immune systems or pre-existing respiratory conditions.
4. Carbon Monoxide (CO)
Sources
Carbon monoxide is a colourless, odourless gas that can be produced by faulty heating systems, gas appliances, and vehicle exhaust fumes that find their way indoors, particularly in enclosed or poorly ventilated spaces like underground parking areas.
Health Impacts
CO is highly dangerous because it interferes with the body’s ability to transport oxygen, leading to symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, confusion, and in high concentrations, can result in unconsciousness or even death. Even at lower levels, chronic exposure to CO can cause long-term health effects, particularly for those with heart conditions.
5. Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) and Sulphur Dioxide (SO2)
Sources
These gases are primarily produced by combustion processes, including vehicle engines, power generation, and heating systems. In workplaces, particularly those near busy roads or industrial areas, NO2 and SO2 can infiltrate indoor spaces, contributing to poor air quality.
Health Impacts
Both NO2 and SO2 are respiratory irritants that can exacerbate conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Long-term exposure can lead to reduced lung function and increased susceptibility to respiratory infections. These gases can also contribute to the formation of secondary pollutants like ozone and fine particulate matter, compounding their health impacts.
Workplace Strategies for Mitigating Air Quality Contaminants
As a business, you have a responsibility to protect your employees, which includes addressing these air quality challenges. Doing so requires a comprehensive approach that includes proper ventilation, regular maintenance, and the use of air purification systems. Here are some strategies that can help mitigate these contaminants:
1. Improve Ventilation
Ensure that your HVAC systems are properly maintained and that air filters are regularly replaced. Increasing the amount of outdoor air that circulates indoors can help dilute indoor contaminants. Additionally, installing ventilation systems in areas where pollutants are likely to accumulate, such as kitchens or areas with high printer usage, can help reduce VOC and particulate matter levels.
2. Use Air Purifiers
Air purifiers equipped with HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filters are effective at trapping particulate matter, biological contaminants, and even some VOCs. Incorporating these devices into your workplace can significantly reduce the concentration of airborne pollutants, leading to cleaner, healthier air.
Air Purifiers vs. Air Fresheners
Most workplaces have them, so you’re probably aware of the benefits of air fresheners, and how effective they are in removing bad smells. However, air purifiers are slightly different and go a step further by using powerful technologies to remove germs, bacteria, allergens and other microbes from the air.
3. Go VOC-Free
Reducing the use of VOC-emitting products, such as certain cleaning agents and paints, can help lower the concentration of harmful gases in the air. Therefore, where possible, go low-VOC or VOC-free products.
4. Humidity Control
Maintaining indoor humidity levels between 30% and 50% can prevent the growth of mould and the spread of biological contaminants. Dehumidifiers can be used in damp areas, while regular maintenance of HVAC systems can prevent the buildup of moisture.
5. Regular Cleaning and Maintenance
Routine cleaning of workspaces, particularly areas prone to dust accumulation, can help reduce particulate matter levels. Regularly inspect and clean HVAC systems, ducts, and filters to prevent the circulation of contaminants throughout the workplace.
Air Care Products to Mitigate Contaminants
At Citron Hygiene, we understand the importance of maintaining a clean and healthy indoor environment. Our range of air care products are designed to tackle the specific challenges posed by indoor air pollutants, ensuring that your workplace remains a safe and pleasant place to work.
1. Citron Hygiene’s Air Purification Systems
Our air purification systems are equipped with advanced filtration technology, including HEPA filters, to effectively capture airborne particles such as dust, pollen, and other allergens. These systems also feature activated carbon filters to reduce odours and VOCs, providing a comprehensive solution to indoor air quality challenges.
EcoBreeze
Did you know our all-in-one EcoBreeze system combines filtration, fragrance and data? EcoBreeze is a highly effective extraction and filtration system that removes odours and indoor pollutants. It’s the only patented fragrance system that ensures optimum performance without the use of ozone, biocides or aerosols – reducing VOC. Find out more about EcoBreeze.
2. Citron Hygiene’s Odour Control Solutions
Our odour control solutions, including air fresheners and odour neutralisers, not only eliminate unpleasant smells but also help reduce the concentration of airborne pollutants. These products are ideal for areas with high foot traffic, washrooms, and other spaces where odours and VOCs can accumulate.
EcoAire
The EcoAire continuously releases an effective amount of air neutralising formula to help businesses like yours to maintain positive perceptions and improve employee and guest experience. The EcoAire is a passive air care system, meaning that it doesn’t use propellants, and therefore, unlike aerosols, no VOCs are discharged into the atmosphere. Discover EcoAire.
Improve Your Indoor Air Quality with Citron Hygiene
At Citron Hygiene, we understand that what you can’t see in a washroom is just as important as what you can. Our range of air care products and services are designed to improve indoor air quality and ultimately, create a healthier workspace for you and your team to thrive. You only get one chance to make a first impression – discover Citron Hygiene’s air care solutions.
