Indoor air quality at home and your health

Did you know?

It’s estimated by the CSIRO that the cost of poor indoor air quality in Australia might be as high as $12 billion per year (Brown, 1998). Similar risk studies performed by the EPA in America have ranked indoor air pollution in the top five environmental risks to public health (US EPA, 1993).

Australians spend 90% or more of their time indoors. That’s why it’s crucial to ensure the air quality within our homes is of a high standard and free from pollutants. Poor indoor air quality within your home or workplace can contribute to various health issues including respiratory problems, fatigue and allergies.

More research is needed to be done on the quality of air in our homes, schools, offices, hotels, shopping centres, restaurants, public buildings and inside cars.

What influences indoor air quality the most?

  1. Ventilation: Proper airflow helps to reduce the concentrations of indoor air pollutants. Great ventilation and the circulation of clean fresh air is one of the most important factors for achieving good indoor air quality.
  2. Humidity and Temperature: Mould, dust mites and other contaminants can thrive in spaces where humidity and temperature are conducive. High humidity often contributes to the growth of mould and dust mites. Low humidity can lead to dry skin and irritated respiratory passages.
  3. Airborne Particles (Particulate Matter or PM): Particulate matter is just a fancy way of describing the very small particles like fine dust, pollen and pet dander that are floating around in the air. If you see something like “PM2.5” in reference to airborne particles, it’s simply saying the particles that were measured have a diameter of 2.5 micrometres or less.
  4. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): VOCs are chemical compounds emitted by household products like paints, furniture, cleaning supplies, solvents, liquid fuels, carpets, floor coatings and upholstery. Going for low-VOC or VOC-free products and ensuring proper ventilation is highly recommended.
  5. Carbon Monoxide (CO), Combustion By-products & Radon: Combustion sources include heating and cooking appliances (including fireplaces) using wood or coal. Proximity to busy roads and vehicle exhausts can also affect the air quality in your home.
  6. Tobacco Smoke: Smoking indoors is not good for indoor air quality or the health of yourself and your family.
  7. Pesticides, Lead & Asbestos
  8. Ozone: This is most often from some types of air cleaners/purifiers and odour treatment systems.

The effects on human health

The most common adverse health effects associated with indoor air pollutants include:

  • Irritation of the eyes, nose and throat.
  • Headaches, dizziness and fatigue.
  • Respiratory diseases (including asthma), heart disease and cancer.

Tips for improving indoor air quality

If you’re considering ways to improve your home’s indoor air quality, here’s some tips and suggestions…

  1. Take shoes off at the front door: Reduce the amount of nasties tracked through your home. Install effective entrance matting too.
  2. Regular Cleaning: Dust, vacuum, and mop regularly to minimize the build up of dust, allergens and other particulate matter (PM). Pay special attention when cleaning to carpets, upholstery, curtains and bedding.
  3. Use Air Purifiers: High-quality air purifiers with HEPA filters effectively remove airborne particles and improve indoor air quality.
  4. Proper Ventilation: Using exhaust fans, installing a mechanical ventilation system, opening windows, decluttering and maintaining a well-ventilated living space all improve ventilation and indoor air quality.
  5. Avoid Smoking Indoors: Create a smoke-free environment to prevent the harmful effects of tobacco smoke on indoor air quality.
  6. Control Humidity: Use dehumidifiers in damp areas if necessary to prevent mould growth and maintain ideal humidity levels. Fix any leaks and prevent moisture issues.
  7. Choose Low-VOC or VOC-Free Products: This is especially the case when you are building, renovating or decorating your home.
  8. Regular HVAC Maintenance: Change filters regularly and keep your heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems well-maintained.
  9. Radiant heaters are a healthier option. Some other healthier heating options use the heat from hot waterpipes along with clever building design.
  10. Consider your building’s interior materials, hard and soft. Look for VOC-free or low-VOC options.

With these tips you can start to improve the indoor air quality in your home today and enjoy the benefits.

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