As a business owner, it is your responsibility to take care of your employees. Thus, you need to make sure your building’s ventilation is in good condition. Low quality ventilation can cause health issues and put your employees and customers at risk.
This blog post will discuss why good ventilation is essential in commercial buildings, the dangers of airborne contaminants and indoor air pollution, and the benefits of sufficient ventilation in the workplace. Continue reading to learn how Design Mechanical can ensure your HVAC system provides sufficient indoor air quality all year long.
The Importance of Proper Ventilation in Commercial Buildings
We spend a significant amount of our lives indoors, which is why we need to keep our buildings’ air quality high. A good ventilation system will perform the following actions.
- Replenishing oxygen
- Creating air flow
- Regulating internal temperatures and humidity levels
- Reducing the accumulation of indoor pollutants
- Preventing the spread of respiratory infections
Proper ventilation is crucial to your building’s indoor air quality and is critical to the health, comfort, and productivity of your employees and visitors. Poor ventilation and irritants, such as dust, pollen, odors, and gasses, can lead to various health problems, including the following.
- Dizziness
- Eye irritation
- Headaches
- Allergic reactions
- Carbon monoxide poisoning
- Life-threatening conditions
Not only are mold development and other health-related difficulties more likely in commercial buildings that have high humidity, but excess moisture accumulation often requires frequent repairs.
The Dangers of Airborne Contaminants in Commercial Spaces
As a property manager or business owner, you are responsible for the health and safety of every person who works at or visits your commercial space. However, the possibility of reduced indoor air quality is far more significant than in residential properties due to the increased risk of airborne contaminants often found in commercial businesses. These contaminants include the following.
Fumes and Odors
Fumes are gaseous materials that have a foul odor and can induce physical discomfort or cause significant health problems over time. Common indoor fumes and odors include paint and solvent, cleaning supplies, pesticides, and gasoline.
Germs and Viruses
Germs and viruses can also cause physical discomfort and, in some cases, severe illness. Common germs and viruses include bacteria and mold spores. If left uncontrolled, a poorly ventilated commercial building provides a sufficient breeding ground for significant bacteria growth.
Mold
Mold is not only unsightly but also hazardous to the health and safety of anyone in your building. Because mold spores are dispersed through the air, the more mold there is, the more likely it is that significant health hazards will spread throughout your property.
Particulates
Particulates are inorganic solid matter fragments and microscopic particles that can be inhaled easily. Common particulates include fibers, powders, dirt, metal particles, wood fragments, and other solid substances. Although particulates do not typically contain hazardous fumes, mold, or bacteria, they can make for an unpleasant experience for anyone in your building.
Ventilation Requirements in Commercial Buildings
Due to the importance of proper ventilation in commercial buildings, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) created guidelines to address workplace indoor air quality standards.
Per the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, employers are required to provide a workplace free of hazards that endanger the health and safety of their employees or are likely to cause death or serious physical harm.
While OSHA doesn’t have a general indoor air quality standard, it does provide guidelines that address the most prevalent workplace complaints about indoor air quality, ventilation systems, and other airborne contaminants. As a result, OSHA requires adequate air filtration and ventilation in businesses of all industries.
3 Benefits of Proper Ventilation in the Workplace
A commercial HVAC system does more than just maintain the temperature of your building; it can significantly affect the health and safety of your employees and visitors. Here are some of the reasons why proper ventilation is crucial to your commercial building.
Improves Health and Indoor Air Quality
Proper ventilation is critical for keeping your building free from airborne contaminants and pollutants, enhancing your facility’s overall air quality and protecting your employees and visitors from diseases.
Lowers Energy Costs
Energy bill management is a concern of every business owner. Maintaining proper ventilation helps to redistribute the temperature and humidity of your building’s air, resulting in lower energy bills and increased fresh air intake.
Increases Employee Productivity
Good indoor air quality and ventilation help with concentration, decision-making, job satisfaction, stamina, and energy. With proper ventilation, employees will not be troubled by being excessively hot or cold or in a humid, stuffy work environment.
Design Mechanical Can Improve Your Ventilation
The air we breathe is important. However, ensuring proper ventilation in your commercial building can be challenging because of the numerous standards and criteria for indoor air quality. Fortunately, by working with a reputable HVAC service provider, you can ensure that your facility is adequately ventilated, comfortable, and sustainable for the foreseeable future.
If you’re a business owner or facility manager looking to improve the indoor air quality of your commercial building, Design Mechanical is here to help.
For over 20 years, we’ve offered professional HVAC services to the Kansas City area, and we’re committed to ensuring the health and safety of your commercial business. With a team of over 100 qualified HVAC service specialists and a wide range of commercial HVAC services and solutions, you can be confident that anyone entering your facility is breathing the cleanest and safest air possible.
Contact Design Mechanical today to schedule a free consultation with one of our HVAC service experts and learn how we can assist you!