While education facilities exist to motivate, engage and promote learning, many schools and universities across the nation still suffer from poor indoor air quality. A large range of building conditions such as water damage, lack of humidity control and poor ventilation can increase the likelihood of bad IAQ. Indoor pollutants like allergens, mold, mildew and volatile organic compounds can put students at risk for a variety of ailments, which could have an adverse on academic performance.
The following are just two ways poor indoor air quality can hurt long-term academic performance.
1. Absenteeism
Polluted air can contribute to uncomfortable learning environments for both teachers and students. When indoor air quality is less-than-ideal, individuals can experience symptoms like congestion, coughing, watery eyes, severe allergies, dizziness, nausea and headaches. Over time, symptoms like these can cause unnecessary absenteeism.
2. Decreased Academic Performance
Indoor air pollution may be a contributing factor to decreased academic performance, especially when levels fall below U.S. Environmental Protection Agency guidelines. When students are regularly exposed to indoor air toxins, their ability to concentrate and retain information may significantly diminish.
What Facilities Can Do to Improve Indoor Air Quality
Creating a healthy learning environment that encourages academic performance and safety for students and staff requires a comprehensive approach to improving indoor air quality. An integral part of the process should include removing toxins and germs from the air, especially in classrooms, locker rooms and bathrooms. Facilities can implement healthy indoor air quality by:
- Minimizing excess moisture and humidity
- Maintaining safe temperature levels
- Regularly dusting and vacuuming
- Consulting with a professional indoor air quality company
Contact the Indoor Air Quality Experts
When it comes to measuring your facility’s indoor air quality, it’s a good idea to leave the job up to the professionals. The experts at Evans Mechanical in Eureka specialize in performing comprehensive indoor air quality services. We also provide repair and installation services for heating, cooling and water heating systems. Feel free to reach out to us today for questions or concerns.
