How to Improve Indoor Air Quality in Schools

How to Improve Indoor Air Quality in Schools

School facility managers and indoor air quality (IAQ) specialists are two groups who concern themselves with the issue of improving air quality in schools.

The past few months leading up to school starting again for the fall term have been busy for these professionals as they work to create a healthy environment for students. Government officials agree that outdated HVAC systems in schools can expose students and teachers to pollutants that cause allergies, asthma attacks, and illnesses like COVID-19.

Address the problem of indoor air quality

Fortunately, the Biden Administration has created a plan to upgrade public schools with modern, energy-efficient facilities to help address the problem of indoor air quality.

The provisions in the plan are made possible by the American Rescue Plan, but to take the longer view, these policies should extend beyond pandemic relief packages. Public schools need permanent access to resources to help improve IAQ. But until more resources are available, facility managers can take matters into their own hands with the following ways to improve IAQ in schools:

• Open windows if possible. Indoor air can be five times more polluted than outdoor air, according to the EPA.
• Make sure the school’s ventilation system works properly and that filters are changed regularly.
• Consider placing air purifiers in the classrooms. High-performing machines can remove 99% of dust, bacteria, viruses, and other common allergens.
• Consider adding indoor plants that have air-purifying qualities, such as English ivy and peace lilies.
• Vacuum frequently and wash fabrics regularly.
• Remove carpets if possible because they trap allergens like mold, pollen, and dust mites.
• Avoid harsh chemicals and use natural cleaning products instead.
• Make sure paints and soaps don’t contain formaldehyde, phthalates, or triclosan.
• Avoid plastic materials. They can release tiny plastic particles that children can inhale.
• Establish car-free areas around the school, and don’t allow engine idling.

Improving Indoor Air Quality in Schools

In the absence of a more direct public policy that addresses the public health issue of indoor air quality, school facility managers can rely on the above measures to help improve the environment for students and teachers. A clean, healthy environment is the foundation of learning;

learning can take place, the body and mind must be healthy enough to function. That makes the matter of indoor air quality in schools a critical one for anyone who cares about their health.