ACI Air Quality

Poor IAQ can cause a plethora of short-term effects, including: irritation of eyes, ears, nose and throat, fatigue, dizziness, exacerbation of conditions such as allergies, and increased absenteeism. Measuring and controlling IAQ is not only important for a building occupant’s comfort, it also has the potential to mitigate spread of bacteria and viruses. While there is no global standard for IAQ at this time, several countries, states, and organizations have published guidelines for VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) measurement. Also, several US states have requirements or codes for CO2 measurement; California recently passed a law requiring CO2 monitoring in classrooms. Regulations are constantly changing, and new ones are emerging.  Being knowledgeable is important. 

The easiest way to improve all aspects of Indoor Air Quality is to increase ventilation by bringing more outdoor air into the space. It will improve levels of microbial, particulate matter, and gases such as CO2. Doing this brings with it higher energy costs as well as potentially higher equipment costs; so there is a balancing act between improving IAQ and energy efficiency. In many parts of the US simply adding more outdoor air to a building will lead to dramatically higher utility bills for most of the year. In short, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. However, in a post-COVID world where thousands of buildings are vacant, improving IAQ, and proving and documenting that improvement, will be a way to encourage people to return to offices, arenas, theaters, restaurants, and other facilities. We need to monitor the existing indoor air to effectively ensure that the air is healthy and if not, identify the contaminants and implement a strategy to effectively remove them. ACI has the sensors you need to monitor your indoor air quality.