What Causes Indoor Air Pollution in the Workplace?

How clean is the air inside your workplace? Assuming your workplace is indoors, it may be polluted. Research conducted by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) shows that indoor spaces, including workplaces, are up to five more polluted than outdoor spaces. By understanding what causes indoor air pollution in the workplace, though, you can take the necessary measures to prevent it.

Cleaning Chemicals

One of the most common causes of indoor air pollution in the workplace is cleaning chemicals. Workplaces can get dirty. After all, it offers an environment where workers, as well as machines, convert labor and materials into ready-to-sell products. The problem is that some cleaning chemicals emit harmful vapors that can pollute the air. Chlorine-based cleaning chemicals, for instance, can lead to indoor air pollution.

Combustion Gases

Combustion gases, such as those produced by gas-burning machines and appliances, can cause indoor air pollution. Combustion is a chemical reaction that occurs when fuel is burned. The fuel is converted into heat and energy. At the same time, gases are released as a byproduct. Known as combustion gases, they can pollute the surrounding air. Combustion gases consist of carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide and other potentially harmful gases.

 If your business uses any gas-burning machines or appliances, you should be cautious of combustion gases. All combustion gases need to be vented to the exterior of your business's workplace. If they are trapped inside, they'll contribute to indoor air pollution.

Pesticides

In addition to cleaning chemicals and combustion gases, pesticides can cause indoor air pollution in the workplace. There are many different types of pesticides. Some of them use organic compounds to deter pests. Others use harsh chemicals to deter pests. With harsh chemicals, the latter type may cause indoor air pollution. Over time, the chemicals used in these pesticides will break down to the point where they are absorbed by the air.

Mold

There's also the possibility of mold contributing to indoor air pollution. Mold is found just about everywhere. According to the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), there are over 1,000 varieties of mold in the United States. OSHA goes on to reveal that workers who are exposed to mold may exhibit allergies. 

If you or another worker is allergic to mold, exposure may cause symptoms such as hay fever, runny nose and red eyes. Furthermore, some researchers believe that prolonged exposure to mold can suppress the immune system, meaning you'll be more susceptible to infection.