Air Quality

Inadequate or poorly maintained ventilation systems can contribute to several hazards (temperature concerns, mould, CO² levels, other air contaminants). Not only does this pose a health and safety concern for everyone in the building, but studies have also demonstrated that students’ ability to learn and concentrate is affected by CO² concentration due to poor ventilation.

Some signs of concern with indoor air quality are easy to see: a puddle on the floor or damp ceiling tiles tell you there is moisture or a leak somewhere which could lead to mould growth, or a vent caked in dust might raise questions about how clean the ducts and filters are. But other concerns aren’t as obvious: a buildup of CO² because insufficient outside air is coming in, or airborne viruses that aren’t being removed by a proper ventilation system. Inspections, maintenance, and air quality assessments are all a part of making sure the air we breathe is safe.

Poor ventilation has always represented a risk to staff and students. Improved ventilation is necessary to keep us safe from airborne hazards. 

Resources:

• Classroom Ventilation Tool.xlsx (1.04 MB)