An excerpt
from Guidelines for Good Indoor Air Quality in Office Premises (1996) by the
Ministry of the Environment explains how air quality can be better by changing
the design and construction of the office buildings. On top of the existing air conditioning, mechanical
ventilation system should be designed to reduce air pollution. Building
materials should not produce any chemicals that will contaminate the air.
Installations should be constructed in a way that reduces the risk of leakage.
The outdoor air intakes should not be surrounded by sources of air pollution. Windows
should be within reach so that cleaning can be done effectively. During
construction processes, only professionals should examine the area. Building
should be constructed such that contaminants would not enter. Air ducts should
be accessible for inspection and cleaning. Outdoor and indoor air should be
filtered to remove pollutants.
Thesis: While the excerpt provides essential details on what
could be done to improve good air indoor quality, it fails to elaborate more
about the health problems of the building workers and educating workers to play
their part to improve the air quality.
Firstly,
the welfare of officers should not be compromised. Officers should be supported
with a conducive and safe working environment. It is a must to control the
moisture and humidity levels. Dirt and moisture can cause bacteria to grow. The
humidity level should not be too high or too low as they would spread
pollutants that cause dry eyes and sinus discomfort. There should be no smoking
inside the building to prevent spread of toxins. This was mentioned in the IAQ
consultant website.
Secondly, workers should be educated to increase their
awareness on potential harmful effects of poor air quality. Sources have also
cited evidence of such education under the EPA guidelines. The workers could
help to prevent blocking the air vents and grilles as it would help in the
balance of HVAC system. Clearing the rubbish regularly and store food to
prevent smell and pests. In my opinion staffs should be well-trained to have
the ready mind set so they would know how to solve the air quality problems.
In conclusion, the excerpt mainly explains about the design
and construction to improve air quality. In order to have a good indoor air
quality, a good working relationship with building management, keeping a medical
record of the workers. Moreover IAQ should be checked and solved using the
given guidelines so as to provide a conducive indoor working environment. Most
importantly green mark certification should be attained to have safer and
healthier environment.
References
Environmental Research and Public Health. (2018). Assessment of Indoor
Air Quality Problems in Office-Like Environments: Role of Occupational Health
Services.
IAQ Consultants. How to Achieve Good
Indoor Air Quality for Your Workplace. (2018)
United States Environmental Protection Agency. (October
1997). An Office Building Occupant's Guide to Indoor Air Quality
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