Page 46 - CIJ Dec 2023 - Digital Edition

Facilities ManageMent

Breathing Easier:
Challenges & Solutions of Indoor Air Quality (IAQ)

In India’s rapidly urbanising environment, air quality has

become a crucial aspect of public health. This feature explores
the complexities and remedies of Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) in

India, enriched by the expertise of Nitin Naik, the Founder
& Managing Partner of Dew Point, an industry expert in
HVAC controls and IAQ management. IAQ is an escalating

concern in diverse settings, from corporate spaces to
educational institutions, transcending geographic and socio-

economic barriers. In a country marked by a wide range of
environmental challenges, comprehending and managing
indoor air quality is critical, not just for comfort, but for overall

health and well-being.

Understanding Indoor Current Scenario of The interplay between outdoor

Air Quality IAQ in India and indoor air quality forms a
critical concern, more so with the
IAQ refers to the air quality Nitin Naik points out that India’s increasing awareness of the health
within and surrounding buildings battle with air quality extends implications of poor IAQ. Despite
and structures, directly impacting beyond outdoor environments to initiatives like the National Clean
the health and comfort of the indoor spaces, particularly in urban Air Programme (NCAP), there
occupants. Given that a sizeable areas where external pollutants are significant challenges in
portion of an individual’s life is infiltrate indoor environments. transforming the IAQ landscape.
spent indoors, understanding, and
managing IAQ is essential. Indoor
spaces often have higher pollutant
concentrations than outdoor areas.
IAQ is influenced by several
factors, including external air
pollution, emissions from building
materials, furniture, and electronic
appliances. Common indoor
pollutants include particulate
matter, carbon monoxide, VOCs,
asbestos, radon, formaldehyde,
and biological contaminants
like mould and bacteria. These
pollutants can lead to a wide range
of health issues, from temporary
discomfort such as eye irritation
and headaches, to more serious
long-term respiratory and heart
diseases.

DECEMBER 2023•Clean India Journal
46 www.cleanindiajournal.com