Why Is Air Quality in Schools So Bad?
Air Quality in Schools
If you have children, then you know that air quality in schools is extremely important. It affects their health, and even impairs their cognition. Studies show that indoor levels of particulate matter are five times higher than those outside. Toxic air in schools has been linked to reduced student attendance and asthma. If you own a school, make sure to take action and address the issue as soon as possible.
School buildings are notoriously bad for air quality. Asbestos and radon fumes are particularly harmful, and older buildings can release them, which are associated with respiratory illnesses. In addition, concentrations of some pollutants in buildings can be 50 times higher than those outdoors. The U.S. Department of Education has found that installing high-efficiency air filters in schools can result in reduced absenteeism, decreased building deterioration, reduced costs, improved work performance, and reduced liability.
Why Is Air Quality in Schools So Bad
When schools are located near power plants, industrial sites, and heavy traffic, children are exposed to high levels of air pollution. These air contaminants often remain in school buildings for prolonged periods. Unfortunately, these buildings do not have good ventilation, and so they tend to trap these contaminants in the air and become a source of toxicity. And when children spend the majority of their time inside the classroom, they are often breathing air that is contaminated by many pollutants.
Why Is Air Quality in Schools So Bad?
As children grow older, they’re more vulnerable to the effects of air pollution. When the concentrations of certain pollutants increase, it affects their immune systems. Students can experience wheezing, coughing, and even colds and flu if they spend most of their time in schools. Adding high-efficiency air filters to your school is a smart decision for your children’s health. You’ll also save money on energy and maintenance.
While the impact on students is obvious, teachers and staff can be negatively impacted as well. The same issues that affect students can also affect teachers. The air quality in schools is an investment in their health. They can also make a difference for their students. Consider how you can help improve the air quality in your school. If you are concerned about the health of your children, consider installing a high-efficiency air filter in your school.
The cause of poor air quality in schools is varied. While students and teachers are responsible for cleaning the school’s facilities, they do not have the same responsibilities as parents. However, it is important to monitor the air quality in schools to avoid potential health problems. If it’s not, the students and teachers could be in danger. That’s why the EPA enacted the Clean Air Act to protect the public’s health.