Indoor air quality (IAQ) is an increasingly crucial topic in the world of work. With the rise in respiratory illnesses and allergies, as well as growing concerns about employee health and well-being, companies are realizing the importance of ensuring a healthy environment. Whether the air is good or bad, it has a direct impact on us, influencing our health and productivity.
Indoor air components
Indoor air contains a variety of pollutants, mainly classified as fine particles and gases.
Fine particles :
PM10: Particles less than 10 micrometers in diameter, often derived from dust, pollen and industrial activities.
PM2.5: Particles 2.5 micrometers in diameter, mainly from tobacco, cooking, candles and certain bacteria.
PM0.1 and PM1: Ultrafine particles, in the range 0.1 to 1 micrometer, which can originate from exhaust gases, combustion products and certain industrial processes.
Gaseous pollutants :
Carbon monoxide (CO): An odorless, colorless gas produced by the incomplete combustion of fossil fuels.
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs): A group of gases emitted by products such as paints, solvents, air fresheners and certain office equipment.
Inadequate ventilation allows these pollutants to accumulate, posing significant health risks for building occupants.
Employee health
Indoor air pollution can cause a variety of health problems, from headaches to allergies. It can also lead to chronic respiratory illnesses such as asthma. Studies show that indoor air can be up to five times more polluted than outdoor air. Poor IAQ can also weaken the immune system, making employees more susceptible to infections.
Common symptoms of poor IAQ include:
Headaches and fatigue: Often caused by high levels of CO2 and VOCs.
Eye, nose and throat irritation: Caused by pollutants such as PM2.5 and VOCs.
Respiratory problems: such as asthma and allergies, exacerbated by fine particles and gaseous pollutants.
Poor IAQ not only affects physical health, it also impacts on employee productivity and creativity. One study showed that reducing indoor pollutants by half could cut short-term sick leave by 10%.
Regulatory compliance
Many countries have strict regulations concerning IAQ in the workplace. In France, for example, the Grenelle II law requires regular monitoring of indoor air quality in establishments open to the public. According to article R4211-1 of the French Labor Code, employers must guarantee their employees healthy air, with no excessively high temperatures, unpleasant odors or condensation due to humidity.
Legal obligations include :
IAQ monitoring: Regular measurement of pollutant levels such as CO2, VOCs and fine particles.
Ventilation system maintenance: Ensuring that air handling systems are properly maintained and operating efficiently.
Pollutant reduction: Implement measures to reduce pollutant emissions at source.
Sensors to optimize working conditions
To improve IAQ and guarantee a healthy working environment, companies can rely on cutting-edge technologies such as air quality sensors. Nexelec offers innovative sensors capable of measuring real-time levels of CO2, humidity, and various pollutants such as Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), Formaldehydes (HCHO), and Fine Particles (PM).
By integrating these technologies into the management of work environments, companies can create healthier, safer spaces that are more conducive to productivity. Installing air quality sensors is an effective solution for monitoring and continuously improving IAQ, ensuring employee well-being and complying with legal requirements.