As the built environment becomes more enclosed and more complex, the number of incidents associated with ill-health, discomfort and spread of malodours in the workplace have increased.
Environmental Evaluation have excellent knowledge and experience in assessing IAQ and general environmental conditions within buildings and in recommending improvements to minimise such incidents.
We have extensive experience working within large office environments ensuring minimal disruption to our clients’ operations and undertaken with sensitivity and discretion.
Our experienced staff use a variety of monitoring equipment to assess the chemical, biological and physical parameters that may be present in the building. This enables a comprehensive assessment of potential issues which may cause be the cause of ill health or discomfort.
Typical airborne chemical substances monitored include;
Airborne Particulates: these will be present from both internal (carpets, skin, paper fibres, etc.) and external (vehicles, industrial processes, etc.) sources. In air conditioned buildings in which air is re-circulated the concentration of airborne contaminants can build up, especially if care is not given to filter renewal, etc..
Aldehydes and other volatile organic compounds: vapours can be given off by any items used in the construction of buildings and from furnishings and fitments such as hipboard resins, furnishing foams, insulation, contact glues, and cleaning materials. Exposure may cause symptoms such as eye and throat irritation.
Carbon Dioxide: if the air change rate is inadequate carbon dioxide concentrations from exhaled breath can build up resulting in a feeling of stuffiness within the room; this can lead to such symptoms as headache and tiredness.
Micro-organisms: these can arise from sources such as humidifiers, contaminated ductwork and the area occupants themselves. Elevated levels are an indication of inadequate air handling unit filtration or cleaning systems. Some people develop allergic reactions to certain fungi at elevated levels and may experience respiratory problems.
Ozone: can be generated by photocopiers and laser printers and the gas can be intensely irritating to the eyes and upper respiratory tract at relatively low concentrations.
Typical physical parameters monitored include;
Temperature: if the temperature is too high or too low personnel will experience discomfort and possible ill health; work performance may be affected.
Relative Humidity: if the level is too low (less than 40%) symptoms such as sore and irritated eyes, dry throat and skin will be experienced. If the level is too high personnel will experience physical discomfort and work performance will be impaired.
Air Movement: a certain amount of air movement is necessary for physical comfort, but too great a movement causes discomfort.
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