When the topics of air pollution and air quality come up, most people automatically assume these terms refer to the air outdoors. While both terms can and do apply to outdoor air, they can also apply to indoor air as well.
In fact, sometimes air pollutants can be found in quantities two to five times that of the outdoor air. For many places of business and employment, indoor air quality is a bigger concern than most might think.
Problems With Poor Indoor Air Quality In A Business
Many different components can pollute indoor air. Some are naturally occurring, such as dust and mold. Others are not natural, such as chemicals off-gassed by textiles, cleaners and other building materials. This means that volatile organic compounds (VOCs), like formaldehyde, phthalates, and other harmful and illegal substances can be present in the air you, your employees, and your customers breathe.
Reduced air exchange inside of a building makes these pollutants even more of a health problem indoors. Lack of circulating fresh air can greatly increase the problem. Poor indoor air quality can lead to headaches, allergies, and even hormonal problems.
The EPA has listed indoor air quality in the list of top five urgent environmental issues that are impacting public health. With Americans spending about 90 percent of their time indoors, it is no wonder why this such a concern. The EPA has estimated that the cost of medical treatments and missed days at work due to poor indoor air quality are in the tens of billions of dollars every year. These figures do not include legal liability for unsafe working conditions.
Ways To Improve Indoor Air Quality
As a business owner or manager, here are a few simple ways you can take on your own to improve indoor air quality:
- Do not allow smoking indoors
- Clean frequently
- Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter
- Damp dust and mop to trap particles
- Place large doormats outside and inside your entrances. This will help trap dust and dirt that can enter your business on people’s shoes
Your Indoor Air Quality Experts
If you are ready to create a better environment for your customers and employees, or for your own home, call Cool Breeze Comfort Solutions today. Our experts can offer you solutions to making the indoor air quality healthier for everyone.
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