Reviews the present state of knowledge of indoor pollutant concentrations, their time dependence and their relationship with indoor sources, energy conserving measures and indoor activity patterns. Pollutants of primary concern are organic compounds, respirable suspended particulates, nitrogen dioxide and allergens. Assesses knowledge of carbon monoxide, formaldehyde, radon and infectious agents. Reviews typical concentrations of carbon monoxide, asbestos, mineral fibres, ozone and sulphur dioxide in residences. Concludes that a systematic assessment of indoor air quality is warranted.
Uses social survey data to test the hypothesis that residential energy conservation measures have the effect of reducing air quality in the home and have a subsequent deleterious effect on the health of the residents. A measure of exposure to harsh chemicals at work is tested for its effect on health. Finds small but detectable amounts of carbon monoxide in more than half of the 173 homes surveyed. The CO levels are higher in homes with unvented kerosene or gas space heaters and homes with smokers present.
Shows the usefulness of a model for extrapolating environmental chamber results on pollutant emissions from combustion appliances to determine indoor pollutant concentrations in actual residences. Investigates the effects of infiltration, whole-house ventilation, and spot ventilation on pollutant levels. Results show that a range hood is the most effective means of removing pollutants emitted from a gas-fired range; removal rates vary from 60%-87%.
Studies a modern energy efficient office building in a series of experiments with mobile laboratories connected on-line with the building. Measures inorganic air contaminants (CO, CO2, NO2). Makes off-line measurements of volatile organic con
Assesses the indoor air quality at Oakland Gardens Elementary School in New York City under 3 different ventilation rates. Uses a mobile laboratory to monitor air quality in 2 classrooms, a hallway and outdoors. Parameters measured include air exchange rates, particulates, odour perception, carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, sulphur dioxide, ozone, nitrogen oxides, radon, formaldehyde and total aldehydes. When the ventilation rate is reduced, carbon dioxide concentrations increase significantly, but do not exceed current occupational standards.
Reviews sources of indoor air pollution, factors which influence pollutant concentration, and health aspects. Reports on investigations into carbon monoxide concentrations in kitchens with geysers. Treats various factors including geyser type, state of maintenance, frequency of use, occupant type, cooking and ventilating behaviour, time and location of measurements etc.Reports nitrogen dioxide concentration measurements in kitchens and livingrooms relating to cooking and smoking.
Describes the monitoring of indoor air quality in a San Francisco office building where occupants had registered eye, nose and throat irritation complaints. Data was taken under two different ventilation rates. Carbon dioxide concentrations increased as the ventilation rate decreased, odour perceptibility increased slightly at the lowest ventilation rate, and other pollutants generally showed very low concentrations, which increased when ventilation was reduced.
Shows that recent investigation has revealed harmful pollutants in greater concentrations in energy-conserving buildings then in the surrounding outdoor air. Some of the pollutants found include particulate matter, carbon monoxide, formaldehyde, nitrogen dioxide and radioactive radon. In the use of some construction materials, measures intended to reduce energy consumption may contribute to the buildup of indoor air pollution. Reviews characteristics of indoor pollutants and major methods of control.
Briefly reviews sources and types of air contaminants common in tight houses. Covers four indoor pollutants - carbon-monoxide and nitrogen dioxide from gas stoves, particleboard plywood and urea-formaldehyde from insulation, and radon from various building materials.Suggests ways of lowering pollutant levels without compromising energy conservation considerations.
In dwellings and similar spaces with limited volume, dilution of indoor air contaminants may be insufficient. The concentration of contaminants in the inside air depends partly on the rate of emission into the room, partly on the ventilation and the concentration of impurities in the outside air. Sulphur dioxide, hydrocarbons, ozone and lead compounds occur in higher concentrations in the outside air, whereas nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide, benzpyrene (from tobacco smoke), formaldehyde and dust have higher concentrations indoors.
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