How safe is the air you breathe at work? Inhaling mold, dust, pesticides, and other contaminants each day could make you feel unwell. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, air quality issues in the workplace are common and may hurt workers' health. Those exposed to poor indoor air quality may experience headaches, fatigue, brain fog, or respiratory problems.
Did you know that you can improve the quality of the air you and your employees breathe? Learn about the steps you can take to improve the indoor air quality at your place of work.
7 Steps to Tackle Air Quality Issues in the Workplace
- Open a Window
The freshest air is outside. Even if your building has poor air circulation, you can improve workplace indoor air quality by simply opening a few windows. Closed windows only trap pollutants and allergens inside. A gentle breeze, however, will help move these irritants outdoors.
Get permission to open any windows in your office for a few hours each day. If you don't have windows, try propping open an exterior door instead. Your lungs will thank you later.
- Look at the Air Vents
Air vents not only control the flow of warm and cold air, but they also maintain circulation. However, obstructed vents can't do their job properly. Poorly circulated air is more likely to contain irritants, such as mold or viruses. Move any furniture, equipment, or boxes blocking the air vents, and make sure to open the vents fully to increase airflow.
- Clean Air Ducts
A clean air duct is a happy air duct. For optimal functionality, we recommend you have the air ducts at your business professionally maintained by a local Rainbow Restoration service expert every three to five years.
- Replace the Filters
Air filters remove dust and allergens from the air, but dirty filters just don't work. As the filters become clogged, airflow decreases, and more contaminants remain in the air. Most commercial air filters last for 6-12 months, and you should replace them according to the manufacturer's guidelines. Clean filters will boost the air quality in your office.
- Invest in a Dehumidifier
Humidity doesn't only cause bad hair days, but it can also lead to unhealthy air quality. Mold and dust mites love moisture. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends keeping indoor humidity levels between 30 and 60 percent to prevent mold growth. Installing a dehumidifier in your office can help maintain safe moisture levels.
- Tidy Up
A clean workplace is a healthy workplace. Vacuum, dust and disinfect surfaces regularly to improve office building indoor air quality. Whenever possible, try using natural cleaning products to prevent lingering chemical odors and aerosols in the air. Not only will your facility look great, but you'll also be able to breathe easily.
- Schedule Preventative Maintenance
Scheduling routine HVAC service is the best way to ensure the air in your office is clean and safe. Have a professional inspect your facility's HVAC system at least once a year.
Still Concerned About Indoor Air Quality?
Customers and employees deserve to breathe safe, clean air. Rainbow Restoration offers a variety of cleaning services designed to improve your air quality and keep your workplace smelling and feeling fresh. Call or request an appointment online to learn more.
