Indoor Air Quality

Indoor air monitoring

Indoor air monitoring involves the assessment and measurement of various air quality parameters within enclosed spaces, such as homes, offices, schools, and other indoor environments. The aim of indoor air monitoring is to evaluate the levels of pollutants, contaminants, and other factors that may impact indoor air quality and, subsequently, human health and comfort.

Moulds and spores

Monitoring for moulds and spores is an important component of indoor air quality assessments, particularly in buildings with moisture or dampness problems. Monitoring for moulds and spores involves initially visually assessing areas for mould growth, typically black growths to walls and surfaces, usually where the area is damp. We can also assess the presence and concentration of fungal organisms in indoor environments.

An assessment of the indoor air quality within your office environment, monitoring for a wide range of parameters that may be aﬀecting staﬀ, these can include temperature, humidity, airﬂow, carbon dioxide, organic vapours etc. On completion a detailed report will be produced incorporating, measurement data, observations, and recommendations.

FAQ

What is indoor air monitoring?

Indoor air monitoring involves the assessment and measurement of various air quality parameters within enclosed spaces, such as homes, offices, schools, and other indoor environments. The aim of indoor air monitoring is to evaluate the levels of pollutants, contaminants, and other factors that may impact indoor air quality and, subsequently, human health and comfort.

What can you monitor in an indoor air test?

Key parameters commonly monitored in indoor air include:

Airborne Particulate Matter (PM): Particulate matter consists of tiny particles suspended in the air, which can include dust, pollen, mould spores, and other pollutants. Monitoring PM levels helps assess indoor air quality and potential health risks.

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): VOCs are chemicals emitted as gases from various household products, building materials, and furnishings. Prolonged exposure to high levels of VOCs can lead to health issues. Monitoring VOC levels helps identify potential sources of indoor air pollution.

Carbon Dioxide (CO₂): CO₂ levels in indoor air can indicate ventilation effectiveness and occupancy levels. High CO₂ concentrations may suggest inadequate ventilation, which can lead to discomfort and impaired cognitive function.

Carbon Monoxide (CO): CO is a colourless, odourless gas produced by incomplete combustion of fossil fuels. Monitoring CO levels is crucial for detecting potential sources of combustion-related pollution and preventing carbon monoxide poisoning.

Relative Humidity (RH): RH refers to the amount of moisture present in the air relative to the maximum amount it can hold at a given temperature. Monitoring RH helps maintain optimal indoor humidity levels to prevent mould growth, respiratory issues, and discomfort.

Temperature: Monitoring indoor temperature is essential for maintaining comfort and identifying potential issues with heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. Temperatures above 21°C often lead to dry eyes, itchy skin and lethargy when the RH is low.

How do you carry out indoor air monitoring?

Indoor air monitoring can be conducted using various instruments, including handheld meters, data loggers, and indoor air quality monitors equipped with sensors for detecting specific pollutants. Regular monitoring and analysis of indoor air quality data help identify sources of pollution, assess the effectiveness of ventilation systems, and implement measures to improve indoor air quality and occupant health and comfort.

How do you monitor for mould and spores?

Monitoring for moulds and spores involves initially visually assessing areas for mould growth, typically black growths to walls and surfaces, usually where the area is damp. We can also assess the presence and concentration of fungal organisms in indoor environments, by monitoring.

Sampling: Sampling is conducted using impactors, impingers, or spore traps to collect airborne particles onto a collection medium (agar gel).

In addition, surface sampling using swabs, tape lifts, or contact plates to collect fungal material from surfaces where mould growth is suspected can be carried out.

Analysis: The collected samples are then analysed in a laboratory to determine the concentration and types of fungal spores present. For viable counts, the samples are incubated on appropriate growth media to allow fungal colonies to develop. After an incubation period, fungal colonies are counted and identified based on their morphology and characteristics. This provides information on the types of fungi present and their abundance in the sampled environment.

Interpretation: High levels of fungal spores or the presence of certain types of moulds may indicate indoor air quality problems and potential health risks.

Recommendations: Based on the findings, recommendations may be provided for remediation or mitigation measures to address mould growth and improve indoor air quality. This may include measures such as moisture control, ventilation improvements, and cleaning or removal of mould-contaminated materials.

What does UK law say about managing risks to workers health?

The law requires employers to adequately control exposure to substances in the workplace that cause ill health. This is the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH). In addition, organisations need to work within the legal limits for the amount of substances that can be present in the workplace air. There are also regulations for the control of: Noise , Vibration and Local Exhaust Ventilation. You can view a range of HSE guidance relating to Occupational Hygiene at https://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/books/index-legal-ref.htm

What is BOHS?

BOHS is a membership organisation that promotes Occupational Hygiene as the science-based discipline for identifying, assessing and controlling exposure to harmful substances in the workplace. It is the only Occupational Hygiene organisation to be awarded a Royal Charter in recognition of its ‘ unique and pre-eminent role as the leading authority in occupational disease prevention’. BOHS is also a UK based examining board for occupational hygiene qualifications

Case Studies

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Stockport Homes

Edsential Education Centre

WWL NHS Trust

Testimonial

AEC carry out all of our monitoring from noise assessments, to air monitoring for respirable silica and hand-arm vibration assessments for tools used across our sites. The hygienists are very knowledgeable and flexible to our shift patterns and the monitoring is always carried out in a safe manner.

NSG, Pilkington Glass

When planning our monitoring exercise, we naturally obtained a number of quotes. We selected AEC Ltd, partly on cost effectiveness but also on the pre-survey service they offered which included a free site visit to accurately assess the monitoring required. All the staff we dealt with were professional and knowledgeable. The written reports were comprehensive, timely and as well as detailing legal requirements, also offered best practice recommendations.

Herefordshire, Ludlow & North Shropshire College

When planning our noise monitoring exercise, we naturally obtained a number of quotes. We selected AEC partly on cost effectiveness but also on the pre-survey service they offered which included a free site visit to accurately assess the monitoring required. All the staff we dealt with were professional and knowledgeable. The written reports were comprehensive, timely and as well as detailing legal requirements, also offered best practice recommendations.

Client of noise and exposure monitoring services. Leading UK College.

Meet the team

Jon McCarthy

Occupational Hygienist

Jon is a skilled Occupational Hygienist, and an associate member of the BOHS Faculty of Occupational Hygiene. With a strong background in conducting a wide range of occupational hygiene services including exposure monitoring, workplace noise, and hand arm vibration risk assessments, Jon has provided tailored solutions to a wide range of public and private sector clients. Jon is also a first class communicator and in addition to undertaking on-site assessments, also delivers a range of occupational hygiene training courses, both on-line and in-person.

David Russon

Occupational Hygienist

David is AECs Occupational Hygiene Manager and a Licentiate membership in the Faculty of Occupational Hygiene (LFOH). He possesses extensive knowledge and practical experience across a wide range of occupational hygiene disciplines, including exposure monitoring, workplace noise and, hand-arm vibration risk assessments, COSHH, local exhaust ventilation (LEV), and indoor air quality investigations, with an extensive understanding of health, safety, and environmental issues. Over the course of his career, he has worked extensively for industrial, governmental, multi-national, and private sector clients.

David Russon, Occupational Hygiene Manager at AEC and BOHS Licentiate specialising in COSHH and exposure monitoring.

Oliver Snowden

Occupational Hygienist

Oliver is an Occupational Hygienist, with experience in numerous areas of the discipline, including exposure monitoring, workplace noise, indoor air quality, and has carried out multiple projects during his time at AEC, providing guidance and advice to a range of clients. Oliver is currently working his way through the BOHS examination modules.