Indoor and Outdoor Relationships of Respirable Suspended Particulate Matter at Primary Schools in Kuala Terengganu, Malaysia

Abstract

Studies have found that indoor air pollution affects human, especially children and the elderly, more compared to ambient atmospheric air. This study aims to investigate respirable suspended particulate matter (RSP) concentration in selected primary schools with different surrounding human activities, and to establish statistical relationships between indoor and outdoor air pollutant concentrations in each selected schools in Kuala Terengganu. Failure to identify and establish indoor air pollution status can increase health problems for these young students and degrade their learning environment and comfort. Indoor air quality (IAQ) parameters in seven primary schools were conducted during the monsoon season of August 2008 until March 2009. Ineach classroom, RSP, air velocity, relative humidity and temperature were monitored during school hours, and a complete walkthrough survey was completed. Results show a statistically significant difference for the six IAQ parameters between the seven schools at the 95% confidence level. Indoor concentration levels were mainly affected by RSP of outdoor concentration levels, since there are strong relationships of RSP concentration between indoor and outdoor in all schools except for control school. We conclude our findings by confirming the important influence of surrounding human activities on indoor concentrations of pollutants at primary schools in Kuala Terengganu.