Air quality can significantly impact your health, as the air you breathe in contains various pollutants and contaminants that can be harmful on both a minor and major scale. It is crucial to monitor air quality, especially in highly polluted areas, and take necessary precautions in order to minimise exposure. This is important to consider in a range of environments including where you live, school classrooms, offices, gyms and anywhere else you spend your spare time. The most common ways to control the health impacts of air quality are to stay indoors during periods of high pollution, use air purifiers in homes and offices, wear masks when necessary and maintain a clean and sustainable environment.

Health Impacts of poor air quality

Respiratory side effects: Poor air quality can lead to a range of respiratory issues including coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath, and trigger existing conditions such as asthma and bronchitis through inflammation through the airways.

Allergies: Airborne allergens like pollen, mould or dampness, and dust mites can trigger allergic reactions. These reactions could result in sneezing, itchy or watery eyes, a runny nose, and congestion.

Cardiovascular problems: Long-term exposure to air pollution has been linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular issues. When certain gases enter the bloodstream through the lungs, this can promote inflammation, affect blood vessels and potentially the heart, leading to more severe conditions such as heart disease, heart attacks, strokes, and high blood pressure.

Respiratory infections: Individuals who are more susceptible to respiratory infections can suffer more so from poor air quality. Polluted air weakens the respiratory system’s defence mechanisms, making it easier for pathogens to plague the body.

Decline in lung function: Prolonged exposure to air pollution can lead to reduced lung function over time as this exposure can impair the ability to breathe deeply and efficiently.

Cancer: As a more severe symptom, some air pollutants, such as benzene and carcinogens can increase the risk of cancer. Inhalation of these particular substances over an extended period of time can increase the risk of developing lung cancer and other respiratory-related cancers.

Neurological impact: Studies suggest that particular air pollutants may have neurotoxic effects. Prolonged exposure to these pollutants has been associated with cognitive decline, neurodevelopmental disorders in children, and an increased risk of neurodegenerative diseases including Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

Impacts of good air quality

Considering how poor air quality can affect a person when being exposed to good, high-quality air, people can benefit in similar ways by reducing the risk or improving the symptoms. For example, good-quality air can improve respiratory health and decrease the chances of cardiovascular disease. Here are some of the primary benefits of good air quality.

Improved quality of life
Increased productivity and performance
Boosted mental health
Improved cognitive thinking
Better sleep quality
Increased energy levels and decreased fatigue
Enhanced cardiovascular health
Improved respiratory health

“Good air quality in the workplace is extremely important for employee wellbeing, as well as the multitude of benefits such as increased productivity, morale and more. Staff will be more productive when they’re breathing in fresh clean air free of dust and various office smells e.g. coffee and lunches, as well as being in an environment with a well-regulated temperature. Keeping air free of pollutants will also aid your staff’s health – particularly those who suffer from asthma or allergies, and the regular flow of air will help prevent build-up of condensation too. ”

Claire Watson, Managing Director, Airmatic

Ways to improve indoor air quality

Maintaining high-quality air is vital in terms of home living, working conditions and health and safety. Workplaces, schools and business owners must work to improve their environments in order to meet laws and standards, create a comfortable space and offer the key benefits mentioned above.

Here are some of the easiest and most effective ways to improve indoor air quality.

Maintain ventilation through windows, doors and systems such as air vents and fans.
Keep the environment clean and hygienic but be wary of toxic chemicals.
Install air conditioning systems to remove and refresh air, circulating it around a space and creating a comfortable temperature.
Control humidity to reduce the presence of mould and dampness.
Keep air conditioning systems and any units clean and also replace any older versions.
Decorate with indoor plants.
Use air purifiers and natural remedies.

Improving air quality with Lee Jackson Air conditioning

Here at Lee Jackson, we strive to offer the best service out there and rest assured we’ll do everything that we can bring a clean and simple installation to your home, workplace, school or business. Whether you’re looking for a wall-mounted, ducted or floor-mounted unit, we’ve got lots to offer.

By supplying brands such as Mitsubishi, Samsung, Panasonic, Fujitsu and Daikin, we can find, install and maintain the perfect system for you! To ensure your air conditioning unit is running smoothly and effectively, we also offer services in maintenance and repairs, both of which can help to create a clean, safe atmosphere.

Get in touch today on 0800 949 9070 and get a free quote!