Indoor air quality in schools is an often overlooked factor that can have a direct impact on the health, well-being, and learning abilities of students and teachers. With rising concerns about respiratory health, particularly in the post-pandemic context, monitoring air quality in schools is more important than ever.
Why monitor air quality in schools?
Children spend a large part of their day in classrooms that are sometimes poorly ventilated. Stale air, laden with CO₂, fine dust, mold, or volatile organic compounds (VOCs), can lead to various health effects: fatigue, headaches, irritation, allergies, and respiratory problems. In the long term, this can also harm cognitive development and concentration.
The indoor air of a school can be up to five times more polluted than the outdoor air, particularly in older, poorly ventilated, or poorly maintained buildings. The combination of human presence, the materials used (paint, glue, furniture), cleaning products, and irregular maintenance creates an environment where pollutants accumulate.
The benefits of a professional assessment
Hiring on air quality specialists, like Benjel’s team, allows for accurate measurement of the main indicators of indoor pollution: CO₂ levels, humidity, temperature, fine particles (PM2.5 and PM10), VOCs, mold spores, and more. This data allows for a clear diagnosis and recommendations for necessary corrective actions.
For example, a high CO₂ level (above 1000 ppm) indicates poor ventilation, which can cause drowsiness and loss of concentration. Excessive humidity promotes the growth of mold, which is harmful to children with asthma or allergies. Identifying these factors early can help prevent widespread health problems.
Concrete and accessible solutions
The good news is that there are simple and inexpensive solutions to improve air quality: increasing the frequency of natural ventilation, installing smart sensors, upgrading ventilation systems, or using suitable air purifiers.
A proactive approach also helps reassure parents and school staff. Several school boards in Quebec are beginning to integrate indoor air monitoring into their maintenance policies, seeing it as an investment in academic success and public health.
Conclusion
Indoor air quality in schools should never be compromised. Children’s health and academic success depend on it. As an expert in environmental analysis, Benjel offers tailored services to diagnose and improve the air quality in educational institutions. This is an essential step in creating a healthy and stimulating learning environment.
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