We’ve all entered a shop or business and been confronted by poor air quality – an unpleasant smell, an uncomfortably warm or cold temperature. It is off-putting and likely led to you wanting to leave as soon as possible. As businesses and commercial spaces in New Zealand strive to create welcoming environments for visitors and employees alike, one often overlooked factor is indoor air quality.
Indoor air quality refers to the condition of the air within and around an interior space. High-quality indoor air is vital in maintaining a comfortable, healthy, and productive atmosphere for a building’s occupants. Let’s take a look at why good indoor air quality is important and how to achieve it for your business.
The Impact of Poor Indoor Air Quality
BRANZ, a New Zealand science-led organisation, defines indoor air as a combination of outdoor (ambient) pollutants and pollutants generated within the indoor environment. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) has identified indoor air quality as one of the world’s top five environmental hazards. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), inadequate indoor air quality resulting from insufficient building ventilation is directly associated with 3.8 million deaths globally each year.
When air quality is compromised, a space’s occupants can experience various respiratory issues, from mild irritation to more severe conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Exposure to indoor air pollutants can also lead to allergies, eye irritation, and other symptoms that may disrupt daily life.
Research has shown that employees working in environments with high levels of indoor air pollution are more likely to take sick leave and report feeling unwell. Poor indoor air quality can lead to sick building syndrome, a condition where occupants experience health symptoms believed to be linked to time spent in a particular building.
Beyond physical health, poor indoor air quality can decrease cognitive function, making it harder for employees to concentrate, think clearly, and perform their tasks effectively. This can result in reduced productivity and increased absenteeism, which affect a business’s overall performance.
Regulatory and Industry Standards
In New Zealand, a commercial building’s indoor air quality is subject to regulations and industry standards to ensure safe and healthy environments for occupants. The New Zealand Building Code, a set of performance-based standards, outlines specific requirements related to ventilation and indoor air quality in commercial spaces. These requirements include adequate fresh air supply, appropriate filtration systems, and ventilation rates that align with the building’s occupancy and usage. Compliance with the Building Code helps create a healthy indoor environment that promotes the wellbeing and productivity of occupants.
The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) oversees the implementation of the Building Code and provides guidance on meeting its requirements. This includes specifying acceptable solutions and verification methods for achieving the necessary levels of indoor air quality in commercial buildings. For instance, proper ventilation rates must be maintained to ensure carbon dioxide (CO2) levels do not exceed safety thresholds. MBIE also emphasises the importance of regular maintenance and servicing of HVAC systems to preserve optimal indoor air quality over time. By following these guidelines, businesses can create comfortable and safe indoor environments that comply with national standards and promote the wellbeing of clients, customers and staff.
Factors Affecting Indoor Air Quality in Commercial Spaces
Several factors can influence indoor air quality in commercial buildings. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are one major source of indoor air pollutants, often emitted by everyday materials such as paints, carpets, cleaning products and office furniture. These compounds can cause irritation to the eyes, nose, and throat, and some have been linked to more serious health issues such as organ damage and cancer. Dust and particulate matter from outdoor air, as well as from activities within the building, can also impact indoor air quality by triggering allergies and respiratory issues. Additionally, microbial contaminants like mould and bacteria can thrive in damp or poorly ventilated areas, leading to musty odours and potential health problems.
Ventilation rates play a critical role in maintaining air quality by controlling the amount of fresh air entering the building and removing stale air and pollutants. Properly designed HVAC systems ensure sufficient air exchange and consistent airflow throughout the building. Filtration systems are another essential component of indoor air quality management. High-quality air filters capture dust, allergens, and other particulates, preventing them from circulating and being inhaled by occupants. Building materials also impact indoor air quality; low-emission products can help reduce VOC levels.
Neglecting to properly maintain HVAC systems, including regular filter changes and cleaning of ventilation ducts, can contribute to poor indoor air quality and its associated problems.
Strategies for Improving Indoor Air Quality
Enhancing indoor air quality in commercial spaces involves implementing proactive measures and best practices that contribute to a healthier and more comfortable environment for occupants. One of the most effective strategies is designing proper ventilation systems that ensure a consistent fresh air flow throughout the building. This helps to dilute and remove indoor air pollutants while maintaining an optimal balance of indoor and outdoor air. By assessing the space’s specific needs, such as occupancy levels and activities, businesses can customise ventilation systems to achieve optimal air exchange rates.
High-quality air filtration is another critical component of improving indoor air quality. Advanced filtration systems can capture dust, pollen, and other airborne particles, preventing them from circulating throughout the building and affecting occupants. Investing in filters with a high Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) rating ensures that even the smallest particles are effectively removed from the air. Additionally, controlling humidity levels within a recommended range of 30-50% can prevent the growth of mould and mildew, which can degrade indoor air quality and pose health risks.
Routine maintenance and servicing of HVAC systems can preserve indoor air quality over time. Regularly changing air filters, inspecting ducts for blockages, and ensuring that ventilation components are clean and functioning properly all help maintain system efficiency and performance. Professional maintenance can also detect and address potential issues before they impact air quality. All leading to a safer, more productive environment for employees and visitors alike.
Benefits of Enhanced Indoor Air Quality
Improving indoor air quality in commercial buildings benefits both owners and occupants, contributing to a healthier and more productive environment. One of the primary advantages is improved health outcomes. By reducing pollutants and allergens, enhanced indoor air quality can lower the risk of respiratory issues, allergies, and other health problems. This leads to a better quality of life for occupants and can reduce absenteeism and healthcare costs for businesses.
Increased productivity is another significant benefit of improved indoor air quality. A Harvard School of Public Health study found that enhancing indoor air quality can boost cognitive performance by up to 101% for crisis response and information strategy tasks. Cleaner air allows employees to think more clearly, make better decisions, and perform their tasks more efficiently. This heightened productivity can have a direct impact on the success of a business.
Enhanced indoor air quality can also lead to greater tenant satisfaction. A comfortable and healthy indoor environment can improve the overall experience for occupants, making them more likely to stay in the building long-term. This can result in higher tenant retention rates and a positive reputation for the building owner. Investing in indoor air quality improvements can create a win-win situation for commercial building owners and occupants.
Fonko’s Expertise in Indoor Air Quality Solutions
Fonko brings a wealth of experience and expertise in designing, installing, and maintaining HVAC systems that prioritise indoor air quality in commercial settings. Our approach begins with a thorough assessment of each space’s unique requirements, including occupancy levels, activities, and existing air quality challenges. This allows us to create tailored solutions that optimise air exchange, temperature control, and filtration systems to meet regulatory standards and provide a comfortable and healthy indoor environment.
Our team of HVAC professionals keep across the latest technologies and industry best practices, ensuring that each system we install or maintain operates at peak efficiency and effectiveness. Whether incorporating energy-efficient ventilation systems or implementing advanced filtration technologies, Fonko is dedicated to delivering innovative solutions that enhance indoor air quality and promote occupant wellbeing. We also understand the importance of ongoing maintenance to preserve the performance and longevity of HVAC systems.
Beyond our technical expertise, Fonko is committed to providing exceptional customer service and support. From the initial consultation to the completion of each project, we work closely with our clients to ensure their needs are met and their expectations exceeded. Our comprehensive services include regular maintenance, inspections, and repairs designed to maintain optimal indoor air quality and extend the life of HVAC systems. By partnering with Fonko, New Zealand businesses know they are receiving top-quality, reliable solutions for enhancing indoor air quality in their commercial spaces.
Talk to Fonko today to find out how we can help you breathe new life into your commercial building and create a comfortable, productive and healthy space for your staff, clients and customers.