Air quality and ventilation rates in school classrooms I: air quality monitoring.

Indoor air quality was monitored at two schools in Essex, UK (located on the same site) during the week 3--7 November 1997. The objective was to determine whether the ventilation rates within the buildings were adequate to provide acceptable air quality to the occupants. Airborne carbon  dioxide concentration was determined using continuous infrared detectors. A class base in each school was monitored for a two-day period. Occupancy patterns and window/door opening were observed during the first day of each period. Air temperature was also recorded. Indoor carbon dioxide levels exceeded those recommended for acceptable indoor air quality for a large proportion of the occupied period. Fresh air ventilation rates were below recommended guidelines.