Today is Clean Air Day, the UK’s largest air pollution campaign: to raise awareness about air pollution; its affect our health; and the steps we can all take to tackle the problem – to protect the environment and our health.
08 Oct 2020
In the UK, under ‘normal’ conditions it’s thought that air pollution may contribute to around 36,000 deaths annually. The World Health Organisation and the UK Government recognise that air pollution is the largest environmental health risk we face today. Poor air quality is linked to a variety of health issues including heart and lung disease and may even contribute to mental health issues.
As the coronavirus pandemic spread and countries went into lockdown, we noticed a significant drop in the levels of harmful air pollutants. This had an enormous benefit on those most affected by air pollution, including people suffering from respiratory conditions, who reported an easing of symptoms.
And air pollution doesn’t just affect us when we’re outdoors. Most people spend around 90% of their time indoors, either at home, work, schools or going to shops and restaurants. Therefore, its important to monitor our indoor air quality too. Sources of indoor air pollution include: dust; dirt; or gases in the air that can be harmful when inhaled.
From warehouses and distribution centres to offices or shops, poor indoor air quality can affect any workplace, and this can have a negative effect on the health of you and your colleagues.
Indoor air quality assessments have been developed to measure temperature, humidity, carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide, as well as measuring exposure to specific analytes such as metals, gases and various organic compounds. Regular testing can help to ensure good indoor air quality is being maintained. If you notice more people experiencing hay fever or other allergies or becoming ill, you might want to schedule a test to check the air quality.
Ben Massey
Business Development - Occupational Health & Hygiene
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