In this expert guide the air quality specialists at WTS consider the most common types of mould found in houses, offices and other workplaces, which ones can be dangerous and how they affect the health and wellbeing of building occupants.
The air quality specialists at WTS examine the impact of radon gas inside homes, in the workplace, and the potential health effects that can result from prolonged exposure.
The article explains what radon is, where it is found in the UK, what are considered safe limits, and the health effects of exposure. It then looks at how indoor air quality testing can be used to help identify the problem, and a number of practical measures that can be taken to make buildings safe from the harmful effects of radon gas. Read more →
In this article the indoor air quality specialists at WTS take a look at mould and the health risks associated with its growth, damp problems and exposure to airborne spores, both in the home and the workplace.
We consider who is most at risk to the effects of exposure, typical symptoms and how it can affect your health. We then look at techniques to tackle typical root-causes of the problem, how to remove the mould itself and how specialist mould testing can help resolve the issues. Read more →
In this article the air quality specialists at WTS examine the impact of volatile organic compounds or VOCs on indoor air quality and the subsequent health effects on people exposed to such compounds. The article looks at what these compounds are, sources of VOCs and where they are commonly found, and the potential health effects exposure can cause. We conclude by reviewing practical measures that can be taken to limit exposure to VOCs and so keep people safe from harm. Read more →
A clear understanding of the importance of workplace exposure limits, the COSHH regulations and the Health and Safety Executives EH40 is essential for all UK businesses and those responsible for workplace safety if they are to safeguard the health of their employees and maintain regulatory compliance in this important area of occupational hygiene.
The importance of fan coil unit maintenance together with regular ductwork cleaning cannot be stressed too highly when you consider that a failure to keep coils clean or simply replace air filters can increase operating costs by as much as 25%. That’s before you start to take in to account any reductions in heating or cooling performance, the inconvenience of increased breakdowns, higher reactive maintenance costs, and the impact on indoor air quality and the health and wellbeing of building occupants.
Managing formaldehyde’s impact on indoor air quality is important in both the workplace and at home. Research has shown that exposure to a number of volatile organic compounds including acetone, toluene and formaldehyde can affect the health and well-being of building occupants to varying degrees depending on several factors. This guide looks specifically at the use of formaldehyde within the built environment, common health concerns, and exposure levels both at work and in the home. It goes on to consider what practical steps can be taken to reduce its impact and the benefits of indoor air quality testing.
Developing a good indoor air quality plan that follows the BREEAM environmental assessment and rating system can help businesses manage their construction and refurbishment planning processes.
Following such a structured approach can help businesses create better, healthier workspaces for their staff and others through the careful selection and use of suitable building materials, appropriate heating and ventilation, and other equipment.