Polluted air has a negative impact on our health and functioning. Unfortunately, smog and harmful substances are particularly dangerous for pregnant women and children. How to improve air quality in schools? Keep reading to discover 4 ways that will help you minimise the exposure of pupils to CO2, mould, volatile organic compounds, airborne fungi and dust.
The impact of air pollution on health
Long-term exposure to polluted air can have a tremendous impact on the health of children and students. It can cause conditions like:
- asthma,
- heart conditions,
- respiratory infections,
- allergies,
- chronic headaches,
- coughing,
- skin problems and eye irritation,
- sneezing,
- fatigue,
- nausea,
- dizziness,
- difficulties with concentration.
Consequently, if we want to protect children and guarantee that they have an appropriate environment to learn and develop, we need to find ways to improve air quality in classrooms.
4 ways to improve air quality in schools
1. Benefit from air purifiers
The market abounds in air purifiers that help to remove harmful substances from the air. They’re equipped with high-efficiency particulate air filters, which enable decreasing the amount of pollutants in the air.
2. Invest in ventilation systems
Naturally, the most efficient way to ventilate the classroom is to open the windows and door, however, if the outdoor air quality isn’t satisfactory, you can invest in professional positive air pressure, negative air pressure, or balanced pressure ventilation systems that will help you stay on your toes and purify the air in the school.
3. Get rid of chalkboards
Did you know that chalkboards were invented in the 18th century? As you may guess, there are more innovative and student-friendly solutions. Regular exposure to chalk dust can make the classroom stuffy and polluted. Moreover, remember about pupils who have allergies and can suffer in such conditions.
4. Start having green fingers
Plants help to remove toxins. To reduce the amount of CO2 and improve indoor air quality in classrooms, invest in plants like Dracaena, Weeping Ficus or Peace Lilies. Apart from keeping students safe and focused, they’ll also decorate the space.
Air quality guidelines for schools – the takeaway
Polluted air has a negative impact on the health of both teenagers and seniors. If you want to keep your pupils safe, follow the above-mentioned tips and buy special air sensors that will allow you to monitor the quality of surrounding air.