The Indoor Environment in Schools, Kindergartens and Day Care Centres

Abstract

Schools and day care centres (also called kindergartens) are important indoor environments for children. There is evidence that the indoor environment in day care centres and schools can increase asthma, asthmatic symptoms, rhinitis and other medical symptoms (e.g. eye irritation, dermal symptoms, headache and fatigue) among children. The indoor environment may also affect teachers and other staff. Moreover, impaired indoor environment in schools may impair learning and mental ability among school children. Ventilation flow should fulfil current general ventilation standards for indoor environments. Installation of a mechanical ventilation system is the safest way to ensure sufficient ventilation flow. Control of room temperature and effective cleaning routines are other important measures to improve the indoor environment. Exposure to building dampness and indoor microbial growth should be avoided and occurrence of indoor mould and bacteria should be minimized. Chemical emissions from building materials should be reduced by selecting low emitting materials and consumer products. Wall-to-wall carpets should not be used in schools and day care centres since they are difficult to clean and can accumulate allergens and microbial compounds. Schools and day care centres buildings should be located away from heavy trafficked roads to reduce exposure to traffic air pollution. Since children are a sensitive subgroup of the population, schools and day care centres should meet high standards for indoor environment and indoor air quality.