Indoor air pollution has long been recognized as a threat to health, particularly for young children. The COVID-19 pandemic heightened awareness of indoor air quality, making it a top priority for facility managers. Recent events, such as wildfires, have further underscored the importance of high-quality air filtration systems in institutional and commercial facilities.
In response to these challenges, many facilities have upgraded their HVAC systems to include better air filters. The correlation between filter quality and air quality is well established. A study by Women for a Healthy Environment, a non-profit organization based in Pittsburgh and Philadelphia, demonstrated that high-quality air filters could significantly improve air quality in daycare centers. Their research showed that advanced filters could enhance air quality by as much as 83%.
WHE conducted a study in eight daycare centers in the Philadelphia area, installing portable air filters to measure PM 2.5 concentrations. PM 2.5 refers to fine particulate matter that poses serious health risks, including respiratory ailments like asthma, heart disease, and cancer. The study found that operating the filters at the highest speed greatly reduced PM 2.5 levels, significantly improving the air children breathe.
Children are particularly vulnerable to air pollutants due to their developing respiratory systems. The study highlighted the urgent need for better air filtration in childcare environments. Over two weeks, the daycare centers showed remarkable improvements in air quality, underscoring the effectiveness of high-performance filters.
Facility managers can adopt several best practices to maintain high air quality in daycare centers. Running filters year-round during business hours at level 4 speed ensures optimal air quality where children and staff spend most of their time. Regular filter replacement, according to unit guidelines, is essential for maintaining filter efficacy.
Strategic placement of air filters can also make a difference. For instance, positioning filters near kitchens during cooking times can reduce particulate matter. Investing in air quality sensors for continuous monitoring helps maintain awareness and promotes a proactive approach to IAQ management. Additionally, implementing measures to reduce source pollution, such as using walk-off mats and removing shoes indoors, can further enhance air quality.
Ensuring proper and adequate ventilation is another critical step. Good ventilation helps dilute indoor pollutants and brings in fresh outdoor air. Distributing air filters, especially in early learning centers within communities with higher-than-average asthma rates among children, can provide targeted protection where it is most needed.
The executive editor of the facility market, Dave Lubach, emphasizes that protecting indoor air quality is not just a response to pandemics or environmental crises but a fundamental responsibility of facility managers. The study by WHE serves as a powerful reminder of the positive impact that improved air filtration can have on the health and well-being of young children. By prioritizing IAQ, daycare centers can provide safer, healthier environments for the next generation.
