Poor indoor air quality in office buildings is a problem many owners and managers face. There are numerous reasons for air quality issues in offices, all of which can create health problems for employees and anyone else in the buildings for long periods. To help you create a healthier environment in your office, review what your Los Angeles mold inspectors want you to know. 

Common Causes of Unhealthy Office Air

Sources of office air pollution include asbestos, environmental tobacco smoke, formaldehyde from pressed wood, and volatile organic compounds from building materials and carpeting. Other VOC sources can include assorted paints and adhesives, restroom air fresheners, office furniture, cleaning products, and copying machines. 

Any office with a poor or malfunctioning ventilation system is at greater risk of indoor air pollution. The same is true of any building where the ventilation system is not regularly maintained. 

Signs of Indoor Air Pollution

Employee health issues are among the most prominent signs of unhealthy office air. Some employees can be more susceptible to polluted indoor air than others, with typical symptoms including sneezing, wheezing, nasal congestion, runny nose, nausea, headaches, forgetfulness, irritability, and dry or burning mucus membranes in the nose, throat, and eyes. These symptoms can be exacerbated by office conditions such as poor lighting and heating/air conditioning issues. 

What to Do If You Suspect Indoor Air Pollution

If you believe your office air is polluted, schedule air quality testing as soon as possible. Testing tells you what kind of pollutants are affecting your office and how much of each pollutant you are dealing with. Improving office air quality can involve repairing and cleaning the existing ventilation system or having it replaced, ensuring the windows are well-sealed to limit outdoor air pollution exposure, and using non-toxic cleaning products and paint. 

Other tips include choosing low-emission carpeting and other furnishings moving forward, and using non-toxic air fresheners in the restrooms and anywhere else. If the groundskeepers utilize chemical pesticides, ask them to switch to organic options. Should you work in an older building with asbestos, get it tested for the insulation material and take the appropriate next steps, which includes complete removal. 

For air quality testing in Los Angeles, contact Mold Masters today.