Indoor Air Quality: Ways To Keep Your Office’s Air Clean In The Summers

The Impact of Poor Air Quality

Over 90% of office expenses come from employee salaries, and they deserve proper maintenance services. It's essential for employees to feel comfortable, both physically and mentally, at work to perform at their best. Besides, ensuring healthy air quality is in the best interests of your organization. It impacts employee comfort and productivity.

A study conducted by the University of Denmark and published by NIH told something interesting. There is substantial evidence that poor indoor air quality in buildings not only reduces productivity but also leads to visitor dissatisfaction. Further, the impact on various aspects of office work performance can be as high as 6-9%, with the higher value observed in field validation studies.

Additionally, research from the University of California Berkeley indicates that even minor enhancements in productivity can result in significant cost savings. Previous studies have shown that when symptoms of sick building syndrome (SBS) are present, simulated work performance declines. Moreover, indoor pollution sources have a negative impact on simulated office work performance.

Identifying Potential Indoor Air Quality Problems

Detecting the causes of indoor air pollution, particularly in commercial settings, can pose a challenge. Often, facility managers only become aware of it when individuals start experiencing symptoms linked to IAQ issues. Moreover, the methods employed to identify potential indoor air quality problems can vary across organizations. However, they typically involve these steps:

●     Inspecting the ventilation system to ensure it draws in an adequate amount of outdoor air and effectively distributes it throughout the space. Also, check the functionality of filtration systems.

●     Investigating other possible sources of symptoms like thermal comfort, noise, ergonomics, poor lighting, and similar factors.

●     Conducting tests for the presence of air pollutants, including mold, asbestos, carbon monoxide, various chemicals, and toxic gases. This can be achieved using air testing kits, with samples subsequently sent to a laboratory for analysis.

Ways And Services That Can Help In Air Quality Maintenance In Commercial Buildings

Taking Care of Your HVAC System and Changing Filters Regularly

Your HVAC system plays a critical role in maintaining the quality of indoor air. To keep it running smoothly, regular upkeep is vital. This includes cleaning, inspecting, and servicing the system. In the summer, when the system is working harder to cool the building, it's important to make sure there's good airflow and ventilation.

Furthermore, don't forget about changing the filters regularly. This simple step is very important for capturing:

●     Dust

●     Pollen

●     Other airborne particles

It prevents them from circulating in the workspace.

Improving Ventilation

To keep indoor air clean and fresh, good ventilation is the key. It is true, especially in the summer when outdoor air quality might suffer due to higher pollution levels or allergens. Find the right balance between indoor and outdoor air.

One effective way to achieve this balance is by using mechanical ventilation systems. Moreover, these systems bring fresh air into the building and filter it to remove any contaminants. Another option is to install energy recovery ventilators (ERVs). ERVs help cut energy expenses while maintaining good indoor air quality. How? By transferring heat and moisture between incoming and outgoing air streams.

Managing Humidity Levels

A comfortable and healthy indoor atmosphere calls for maintaining the right humidity levels. Also, excess humidity can lead to problems like:

●     Mold growth

●     Unpleasant odors

●     Discomfort

Keep an eye on humidity levels and use dehumidifiers when needed to reduce excess moisture. Conversely, if the air gets too dry due to air conditioning, consider using humidifiers to add moisture and prevent dryness. It can cause respiratory problems and discomfort.

Adopting Effective Cleaning and Maintenance Practices

To keep indoor air quality high and minimize pollutants and allergens, follow proper cleaning and maintenance routines. Moreover, you can get professional services to deep clean:

●     Regularly vacuum carpets and upholstery

●     Dust surfaces

●     Clean air vents and ducts

Pay extra attention to areas that are prone to moisture or water damage, as they can become breeding grounds for mold and mildew. Opt for eco-friendly cleaning products to reduce the use of harmful chemicals that can negatively impact indoor air quality.

If needed and as already mentioned, consider hiring one of the many professional janitorial companies in NYC to handle these tasks for you.

Promoting Greenery and Natural Elements

Incorporating indoor plants not only enhances the visual appeal of the workplace but also improves indoor air quality (IAQ). Plants act as natural air purifiers, absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen. Also, they help lower the levels of certain pollutants, contributing to improved overall air quality.

To reap these benefits, consider strategically placing indoor plants throughout the building space. But remember to ask your office maintenance service to regularly clean under those spots.

Educating and Encouraging Employee Involvement

Raising employee awareness about the importance of maintaining good IAQ is essential. Also, provide information on simple practices employees can adopt, such as:

●     Keeping windows closed during periods of high outdoor pollution

●     Reporting any water leaks or signs of fungi

●     Following proper waste management and recycling procedures

Foster employee involvement by promoting a culture of cleanliness and IAQ awareness within the workplace.

Ban Smoking Inside the Office

Cigarette smoke carries harmful components like:

●     Delicate particulate matter

●     Carbon monoxide

●     Formaldehyde

●     Numerous other chemicals

Research has demonstrated that exposure to secondhand tobacco smoke can lead to conditions such as inner ear infections, asthma, and lung cancer among nonsmokers. Additionally, the growing use of electronic cigarettes indoors introduces new sources of indoor air pollutants. It typically includes nicotine and various flavor and fragrance additives.

Consider Professional IAQ Evaluations

For top-notch indoor air quality (IAQ) in your office space, think about arranging for professional IAQ evaluations. Certified experts can:

●     Carry out thorough assessments

●     Pinpoint possible problems

●     Offer suggestions for enhancement

These evaluations might encompass air sampling, mold testing, and inspections of ventilation systems. It guarantees compliance with IAQ standards.

Need Assistance?

Maintaining clean and breathable indoor air involves regular care and preventive measures. After learning a few simple steps you can take to reduce indoor air pollution on your own. But consider scheduling an appointment with DLL Cleaning Services professionals. We offer various service plans, including some of the best move in and move out services in NYC.

Right now, get in touch today and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your home's air is pure and safe.