Indoor Air Pollution is a Real Problem, but What Can be Done About it?

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has declared that household air pollution is one of the most common causes of premature death and disease in developing countries. Furthermore, The WHO explains that exposure to indoor air pollutants can lead to mental and physical health concerns for both adults and children. With many of the world’s population forced into global lockdowns, it is essential that building occupants understand the risks associated with indoor air pollution and how they can improve the airflow within their properties.

What are the Risks Associated with Indoor Air Pollutants?

Exposure to poor indoor air quality can lead to short-term symptoms which can unfortunately also lead to long-term and potentially irreversible health concerns. Short-term symptoms associated with poor IAQ include:

• Dry and irritable eyes, throat, and skin
• Fatigue and dizziness
• An increase in headaches
• Coughing and sneezing
• Shortness of breath
• Hypersensitivity and/or an inflex in allergies
Long-term health issues related to poor IAQ include:
• Chronic lung conditions such as lung cancer and lung disease
• Chronic heart conditions such as heart disease
• Chronic respiratory issues such as asthma and sleep apnoea

How Do These Harmful Pollutants Get Inside Your Home?

There are many sources of indoor air pollution.
The most common culprits include:
• New flooring, carpet or upholstery
• Household cleaning products
• Excess moisture (which causes condensation)
• Tobacco products
• Humidity
• Build-up of bacteria, mould, fungi and dust
• Outdoor sources such as pesticides that are sprayed close to your building

There are some simple ways to help eliminate these indoor air pollutants, such as installing extractor fans in the kitchen and opening windows to let the air circulate, but these aren’t always effective.

What Can be Done to Improve Indoor Air Quality?
Property owners and business owners alike can benefit from having an MVHR system installed. An MVHR system is a mechanical ventilation system that helps control the ventilation and airflow of a building without contributing to heat loss. The unit pumps in the required amount of air into each room while removing the stale and potentially harmful air when needed. It is a consistent means of reducing indoor air pollution and improving a building’s IAQ. This will reduce the risk of developing symptoms and long-term health issues.
Contacting an accredited professional to install an MVHR system is essential, however, as an incorrectly installed unit will have gaps in its performance and may not replenish the property’s air efficiently. Speak with professionals for further information on the link between air quality and a properly installed MVHR system, such as those offered by https://www.bpcventilation.com/.
There is a lot of focus on outdoor air pollution, causing oversight on indoor air quality and how it can impact a person’s health. Organisations such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have reported that the levels of indoor air pollutants can be up to five times higher than those found outside. It is essential for the general public to be aware of the link between indoor air quality and better health.

8 Redlands Rd, Larne BT40 1AX, United Kingdom

Due to increased awareness of poor indoor air quality and the affects on our health caused by insulating the walls and ceilings and making our houses more airtight, BPC Ventilation was started.

This release was published on openPR.