If you don’t work from home, chances are your office is a shared space. With so many people working together for long hours, it’s easy for dirt, dust, and other nasty stuff to accumulate quickly. If a building is under renovation, it can make office air quality even worse.
Poor air quality in offices can lead to something called Sick Building Syndrome, which affects people in buildings with bad air. Being exposed to poor air quality for long periods can cause headaches, coughs, fevers, and even respiratory issues. If you notice these symptoms at work but not at home, it could be due to the air quality in your office.
Luckily, bad office air quality doesn’t have to last forever. There are plenty of simple ways to improve it for yourself and your coworkers.
First, keep air vents open and unobstructed. Don’t block vents with furniture, boxes, or equipment, and make sure air can circulate properly to avoid stale air. Office managers should regularly clean out vents and filtering systems to prevent dust and debris from clogging up filters. It’s recommended to replace filters every 12 months.
You should also have your air quality tested regularly by professionals. They know what to look for, such as leaks, ventilation issues, mold, odors, and humidity problems. Most importantly, they know how to fix any issues they find.
Moisture can also contribute to poor office air quality by encouraging mold and mildew growth, which can cause serious health problems. Regularly maintaining gutters is essential as clogged gutters can lead to water buildup, creating a damp environment ideal for mold growth. Proper gutter function ensures water is directed away from the building, reducing mold risks. Clean up wet spills and fix leaks right away to prevent mold.
Maintaining proper humidity levels, between 30 and 50 percent, is crucial for good air quality. This helps keep allergens and dust mites at bay. Dehumidifiers and air conditioners can be helpful in achieving this.
Fresh air is also important. Keep windows open as often and as long as possible to allow fresh air in and let stale air out. Plants can help too; they absorb toxins and produce oxygen.
Cleanliness plays a big role in maintaining good office air quality. Regularly vacuum, dust, tidy up clutter, and dispose of trash. If time and space are issues, hiring a professional cleaner occasionally can help keep things under control.
Improving air quality in your office eliminates dirt and toxins, preventing them from accumulating in the air you breathe.