Why Is IAQ Important?

Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) is strongly connected to health and wellbeing. Humans tend to spend a large amount of time indoors. Breathable air that's free of health threatening pollutants can lead to a higher quality of life, lower risk of respiratory illnesses, and a reduced risk of various chronic conditions

EPA studies of human exposure to air pollutants indicate that indoor levels of pollutants may be two to five times — and occasionally more than 100 times — higher than outdoor levels.

Failure to prevent or respond promptly to IAQ problems can increase long- and short-term health effects for students and staff, such as:

  • Coughing;

  • Eye irritation;

  • Headaches;

  • Allergic reactions;

  • Aggravate asthma and/or other respiratory illnesses; and

  • In rare cases, contribute to life-threatening conditions such as Legionnaire’s disease or carbon monoxide poisoning

What’s in the air?

  • Germs and infectious agents

    Viruses - Bacteria - Mold - Flu Virus - Pollen Growth

  • Chemical gases and odors

    Chemicals - Pesticides - Cleaning Solvents - Building Materials

  • Particles and allergens

    Dust - Skin Flakes - Dust Mite Feces - Pet Dander - Smoke - Hair