Why Indoor Air Quality Matters More Than You Think

When we think of air quality, our minds often drift to images of smog-filled cities or pollen-heavy days, but the reality is that indoor air quality (IAQ) is a silent and often underestimated determinant of our well-being. In the 21st century, the quality of the air inside our homes, schools, and offices plays an enormous role in shaping our health. But have you ever paused to ask: What factors affect indoor air quality, and who is responsible for ensuring the air we breathe is clean?

Clean Air Quality in Your Home

We tend to simplify the concept of clean air by associating it solely with the removal of indoor air pollution like mould. However, the spectrum of airborne contaminants extends far beyond mould spores and allergens. A multitude of factors, from the materials used in our homes to how well we ventilate our spaces, can create health problems. These contaminants interact with each other and our bodies, affecting us in ways we often don't realise until it’s too late.

Standards for Indoor Air Quality Testing

In most aspects of our lives, safety standards and regulations keep us protected:

• Water Quality: We don’t have to think twice about the safety of our drinking water; it is rigorously monitored and regulated.
• Food Safety: We trust that the food we buy from a supermarket has been checked and approved for consumption.
• Outdoor Air Quality: Government agencies regulate emissions and pollution to ensure that the air we breathe outside is safe.

But here's a thought-provoking question: Who regulates the air we breathe indoors—where we spend 90% of our time, inhaling and exhaling 12 times a minute? Surprisingly, there is no single, unified body responsible for overseeing how to check indoor air quality. This raises a critical issue: If we regulate the water we drink and the food we eat, why aren’t we more proactive about the air we breathe indoors?

Factors Impacting Indoor Air Quality

Let's explore what makes indoor air quality such a complex and often neglected issue:

1. Building Materials and Furnishings: Modern building materials, paints, and furniture often emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can linger in the air and contribute to a toxic environment.
2. Moisture and Mould: Damp conditions can trigger mould growth, releasing spores and mycotoxins that severely impact respiratory health and immune function.
3. Poor Ventilation: Stale air that isn't properly circulated can create high levels of contaminants, making it difficult to breathe and exacerbating health conditions.
4. Household Products: Cleaning agents, air fresheners, and personal care products often contain harmful chemicals that can irritate the respiratory system.
5. Biological Contaminants: Pet dander, dust mites, and pollen can accumulate indoors, especially in poorly ventilated spaces.
6. Outdoor Pollutants: While we can control some aspects of our indoor environment, outdoor pollution—like vehicle emissions—can infiltrate our homes and further degrade air quality.

Barriers to Progress in Managing IAQ

The challenges in tackling IAQ are not just scientific but also political and legislative:

• Complex Governance: The responsibility for IAQ is fragmented, often split among different organisations with overlapping jurisdictions.
• Legislative Gaps: In many countries, there is no single authority responsible for indoor air quality. Instead, legislation is often at the discretion of local or state governments.
• Limited Performance Standards: While there are design and operational standards for buildings, there are few to no enforceable performance standards specifically for IAQ.
• Confidentiality Issues: Assessments of IAQ are often conducted privately, and the information may be withheld from the public or occupants, creating a barrier to awareness and action.

How Does Poor IAQ Manifest in Long Term Health?

• Respiratory Issues: Chronic respiratory conditions affect 34% of people, with 11% of Australians suffering from asthma and 2.5% living with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
• Cardiovascular Disease: Nearly 18% of Australians self-report living with cardiovascular problems, which can be exacerbated by poor air quality.
• Allergies and Autoimmune Disorders: About 5% of people are affected by autoimmune diseases, with 20% living with multiple chronic conditions. Airborne allergens and pollutants can trigger or worsen these diseases.
• Cancer and Reproductive Health: Long-term exposure to indoor pollutants like radon or benzene is associated with lung cancer and reproductive health issues.
• Nervous System Effects: Chemicals like formaldehyde can have sensory and neurological effects, impacting concentration and overall cognitive function.

The Mould Connection

Exposure to indoor mould and dampness is particularly harmful. Even short-term exposure (1-30 days) can lead to persistent building-related symptoms (BRS), including respiratory issues, skin irritation, and eye discomfort. In Australia, studies have shown that living in damp conditions can have long-lasting impacts on quality of life, even if the person eventually moves out of the mould-affected environment.

Words Occupants Used to Describe BRS Triggers:

• 58% of people attributed symptoms to visible mould.
• 45% mentioned damp or wet conditions.
• 11% reported hidden mould as a culprit.

These figures highlight that awareness and prompt action are crucial in mitigating health risks.

The Hidden Costs of Poor IAQ

The consequences of ignoring IAQ are not only personal but societal:

• Healthcare Costs: Treating respiratory and cardiovascular diseases puts a strain on healthcare systems.
• Productivity Loss: Poor air quality can lead to absenteeism and reduced cognitive function, impacting work output.
• Quality of Life: The mental and emotional toll of living with chronic conditions caused by poor air quality is immeasurable.

Why Clean Air is a Necessity, Not a Luxury

So, how can we take control of our indoor environments?

1. Invest in Air Quality Solutions: High-quality air cleaners and air purifiers with HEPA filters can make a significant difference, particularly in spaces where ventilation is limited.
2. Regular Maintenance: Check HVAC systems and replace filters frequently. Make sure that air vents are not blocked or clogged.
3. Limit Moisture: Address leaks and moisture issues immediately to prevent mould growth. Proper ventilation in bathrooms and kitchens is essential.
4. Choose Low-VOC Products: Opt for paints, finishes, and cleaning products that are labeled as low-VOC to minimise chemical emissions.
5. Monitor and Measure: Use an indoor air quality monitor to keep tabs on particulate levels, humidity, and CO2 concentrations.

Indoor air quality should be treated as a fundamental pillar of public health. Just as we don't question the quality of our water or food, we shouldn't have to question the air we breathe. However, the reality is that IAQ remains a largely unregulated and overlooked area. Until comprehensive measures are adopted globally, the onus falls on individuals and businesses to take proactive steps in safeguarding the air we inhale.

Fresh air is more than just a convenience—it's a lifeline. We spend 90% of our time indoors, isn't it time we paid more attention to what we're breathing in?