Air Quality Index through Inverse Evaluation of Hazard Quotient for Public Indoor Facilities - schools, child daycare centers and elderly nursing homes

Abstract

Indoor air quality indices (IAQI-S, IAQI-C and IAQI-E) were developed to manage air quality in public facilities for vulnerable groups such as schools, child daycare centers, and elderly nursing homes, respectively. In this study, hazard quotient (HQ) was first designated, then the concentrations of each pollutant were calculated by adding the exposure factor of residents. The presented index was more stringent than comprehensive air quality index (CAI) for outdoor atmosphere. Also, composite indices that integrate individual indices for each pollutant were developed for quick and convenient recognition of the current air quality by administration officers or teachers and to take remedial actions. Among all data collected in field measurements, 75.4%, 71.2% and 35.6% were classified as ‘Good’ or ‘Moderate’ in school classrooms, child daycare centers and elderly nursing homes, respectively