Is CO2 a good proxy for indoor air quality in classrooms? Part 1: The interrelationships between thermal conditions, CO2 levels, ventilation rates and selected indoor pollutants

Abstract

Current indoor air quality (IAQ) guidelines in school buildings are framed around thermal conditions, carbon dioxide (CO2) levels and corresponding ventilation rates without considering specific indoor pollution levels. Drawing on detailed monitoring data from a sample of 18 classrooms from six London schools, the aim of this paper is to highlight behavioural and environmental factors that affect pollution levels in classrooms, and evaluate the adequacy of CO2 as an overall predictor for IAQ using multilevel modelling. Together with elimination of indoor emission sources, keeping the temperatures below 26℃, and preferably below 22℃ depending on season, may limit total volatile organic compounds below thresholds associated with sensory irritations. The models suggested that after removing dust reservoirs from the classrooms, lowering average indoor CO2 levels below 1000 ppm by increasing ventilation rates can limit indoor airborne particulate matter concentrations below recommended annual WHO 2010 guidelines. Uncontrolled infiltration rates may increase indoor NO2 levels and microbial counts of fungal and bacterial groups, whose presence is associated with wet and moist materials. Overall, indoor CO2 levels were a useful proxy for indoor investigations as they can prevent overheating, dilute pollutants with indoor sources and purge concentrations of airborne particles; however, they were a poor predictor of traffic related pollutants. Practical implications of the findings on the UK policy and building design industry are discussed. Practical application: Driven by the growing population, and many years of intensive use, the UK building stock is in need of rapid expanding, extensive refurbishment and maintenance. However, local authorities lack the money for comprehensive and specialist renovations. The recommendations presented in this paper take into account specific needs and possibilities, and target building designers, engineers and occupants involved with daily operation and management of school buildings. Timely control of ventilation and heating systems, informed selection of construction materials, interior finishing and elimination of indoor sources may improve IAQ of school classrooms.