Throughout our daily lives each of us are exposed to a variety of environmental pollutants. Some of the risks we accept, however, are avoidable. Because we spend up to 90% of our lives indoors, doctors strongly recommend indoor air quality control. Good indoor air quality contributes to a healthier being. In fact, the American college of Allergists says that 50% of all illnesses are either caused by or aggravated by indoor air pollutants. It may be nearly impossible to eliminate all such sources but by being more aware many can be significantly reduced or eliminated.
Especially those with asthma or allergies should be active in investigating the present air quality of their homes, workplaces and children's schools. According to the American Lung Association, asthma is the number one reason for school and work absenteeism. Many schools have become increasingly cautious about their air quality. Air pollutants have also been associated with wheezing, prolonged cough, fatigue, dizziness, sinus congestion itchy or watery eyes, decreased concentration and short and long term health risks. Children are much more susceptible to the effects of pollutants. While in school, children are expected to be at their best. Schools that monitor air quality in their buildings are shown to have fewer student visits to the school nurse, fewer absences, increased perceived cognitive performance and increased scores on standardized tests. Schools that do monitor the air quality may experience not only better student and faculty performance but also better staff and parent relationships and reduced spending and increased funding. The number of student absences and results of standardized test scores are two factors in determining how much funding a school will receive, both of which are influenced by air quality. One case study of a Chicago School shows that if a little over $8000 had been spent on measures to maintain better air quality, a 1.5 million dollar repair could have been avoided.
Many ways exist to improve the air quality of our buildings. Increasing ventilation is one thing that we all can do. Ventilating will allow fumes from toxic cleaning products, mold spores, carbon dioxide and other pollutants to escape. Products by companies such as Vital Technologies provide a great eco-friendly way to eliminate many toxins. Vital Oxide is a non-toxic anti-microbial that can be sprayed or fogged and has been tested for it effectiveness in improving air quality. By far the most important thing we can do to combat indoor air pollution is to educate ourselves and others about the unnecessary risks we accept and the benefits we gain from improved air quality.
So please, speak up about indoor air quality. Talk to you boss at work, the school principle and you peers about how we can benefit from improved air quality. If you have any comments or suggestions about how we can achieve better air quality please share. We can all learn from each other.
