NICE air quality

The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence’s (NICE) guidance Indoor air quality at home noted that as we spend 90% of our lives inside, poor air quality within buildings affects our health. The document issues recommendations to stakeholders including local authorities, healthcare professionals and ventilation specialists.

Alan Macklin, Group Technical Director at Elta Group, comments: “There has been significant research into the impact of bad air quality in our buildings, especially as the insulation of structures reduces levels of natural ventilation. Sick building syndrome (SBS) has made an unwelcome return, and the link between CO2 and concentration levels in schools is alarming.” Domestic air quality is no better, and given that 60% of time is spent at home (according to the guide) it’s an important focus. “From product design through to installation, the focus must be on adopting a whole-house approach to heating and ventilation, taking energy efficiency into account while striving for optimum air quality,” he says.

For an understanding of the sources and symptoms of poor indoor air quality and what actions to take to improve it, read the guide at nice.org.uk/guidance/ng149

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