Indoor air quality has been determined to be up to ten times more contaminated than outdoor air in numerous studies conducted by reputable laboratories and research institutes. It happens all the time, especially in poorly ventilated enclosures. Sick building syndrome is caused solely by these improperly aerated enclosures.
Previously, while planning a building, the most efficient use of space took precedence above ventilation. Such structures are unhealthy to live in, and the most efficient approach to make them habitable is to renovate them with appropriate ventilation alternatives. To tackle the problem, foresight at the time of design is required. It’s important to remember the proper amount of airing and sunlight.
The following considerations are extremely significant when renovating or ventilating a home:
Ventilation
There are three ways that outside air enters and exits a home:
Infiltration: Air enters the house through gaps around windows and doors, as well as joints, apertures, and cracks in the ceilings, walls, and floors, in a process known as infiltration.
Natural Ventilation: Air travels in and out of a room through open vents, windows, and doors in natural ventilation.
Mechanical Ventilation: Mechanical ventilation involves forcing air into and out of enclosed spaces using mechanical mechanisms.
The air exchange rate (AER), or the rate at which outdoor air replaces inside air, is the most critical component to consider while designing. Appropriate AER could be attained in one of the three techniques listed above.
Leakage is minimized in new residential and office buildings to save energy, increase comfort, and prevent moisture and pollutants from entering. Mechanical ventilation should be installed in these structures to eliminate interior contaminants and deliver controlled external air. People who live in a building emit carbon dioxide, and the higher the occupancy in a space, the more CO2 is emitted. It is also a significant issue to take into account. The building, current heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) system, and the air changes required for the building and specific function, such as seizing aerosol pollution, determine if a mechanical ventilation system is required. Which will be challenging and costly.
Sunlight
Sunlight is a powerful germicide that is both natural and effective. It minimizes the danger of sick building syndrome by destroying bacteria. The possibility of maximum sunshine reaching all rooms should be considered and accomplished when planning a building. Even when remodelling, it’s important to keep in mind that sunshine should be allowed to enter different parts of the building.
Moisture
Appropriate moisture should be maintained in a building for the health of those who live or work there.
Less humidity causes sour throat and other respiratory problems, while too much moisture promotes the growth of mould, fungi, algae, bacteria, and other germs in the structure. Ensure that all pipes are leak-proof and that water does not seep into the wall during construction. The roof must be watertight.
Sanitary connections and washrooms must be impenetrable to contamination. A mechanical dehumidifier might be used if the environmental humidity is higher in a certain location, while a humidifier could be used if it is lower.
Paints
Lead levels in many paints are extremely high. Exposure to high levels of lead in paints can disrupt a child’s brain development and impede nervous system development, resulting in learning impairments and hearing loss. Lead in paintings can raise blood pressure in adults as well. Aside from lead, most paints emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which evaporate in the air and worsen indoor air quality (Indoor Air Quality). VOCs are carcinogenic and can have a negative impact on one’s health. Many factors influence the effect, including the chemical concentration in the air, the duration of exposure to the chemical, medical conditions, age, and vulnerability. Use paints that are devoid of lead and mercury.
It’s also a good idea to use the exhaust fans for 2-3 days to eliminate paint fumes from the building.
Paints should not be kept near heating, ventilation, or air-conditioning systems.
Fixture and Furniture
VOCs are found in paints, varnishes, sealants, and adhesives used in fixtures and furniture. VOCs can also be found in cleaning, disinfecting, cosmetics, and aerosol-based air fresheners. VOCs are constantly released into the building’s air by these substances and components. Reduced use of these elements in the building aids in the reduction of volatile compound emissions. Furthermore, both natural and mechanical ventilation aid in the removal of cancer-causing substances from the structure.
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Disclaimer
Views expressed above are the author’s own.
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