Indoor air quality has never seemed like a big deal until the emergence of Covid-19. Many employers are now realizing that poor indoor air quality can cause allergies, fatigue, chronic illness, and affect employee performance. As an employer, it is your duty to ensure your office or commercial space is safe, clean, and presentable. Here’s what you need to know about the affects of poor indoor air quality.
Increased Allergies/Asthma
Workplace allergies due to poor indoor air quality are often related to lack of cleaning, pet dander, perfumes and colognes, neglected HVAC systems, and strong chemicals. Offices and commercial spaces with carpets and upholstery tend to cause allergies and asthma to be more severe. This is because dirt, debris, and pet dander nestle deep in fabric fibres. If pets are permitted at the office, consider only allowing hypoallergenic pets to reduce allergens. Pet-friendly office cleaning services can also be advantageous.
Frequent Sick Days
Frequent sick days create staff shortages, loss of income, reduce employee morale, and instil absenteeism. Good airflow prevents stagnant air and the rapid spread of illness. Opening windows and regularly maintaining the HVAC system will assist with improving circulation and reducing workplace outbreaks.
Lack of Productivity
It is difficult to focus and stay motivated when surrounded by stale indoor air, especially when the weather is nice outdoors. Letting fresh air in, adding plants, and ensuring your office’s HVAC system is running efficiently will encourage employees to be more productive. Switching to eco-friendly cleaning products is also highly beneficial. Toxic cleaning chemicals are a major culprit of indoor air pollution, rashes, itchy eyes, and respiratory illness.
Unexplained Chronic Illness
If an employee has been feeling ill for a prolonged amount of time, it is time to consider your office’s indoor air quality. Chronic illness is often caused by mould and mildew growth on surfaces and vents. HVAC systems spread mould spores through the ventilation system, causing them to recirculate. When not attended to in a timely manner, mould can spread further and cause long-term health issues.
Prolonged Fatigue
Constant fatigue has a negative effect on productivity. It is caused by lack of oxygen and can lead to irritability and drowsiness. Good ventilation is one of the best solutions for improving prolonged fatigue. Opening a window or running a fan is highly beneficial. In more severe cases, consider adding an air purifier for best results. Air purifiers remove pollutants from the air through air filtration.
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