Poor indoor air quality

David Bly – Managing Director of Cornerstone Management Services Ltd, a company providing independent expert property health surveys is of the opinion more can be done for fighting year-on-year damp, condensation and mould issues in buildings.

For many involved with managing and upholding structural health, it could be argued there needs to be a ‘reset’ with regard to how structures are assessed for these reported issues.

With a proven history providing independent expert surveys into the root causes of damp, condensation and mould, our findings clearly confirm many issues align to the adequate ventilation of a building.

Poor indoor air quality can lead to visible pollutants such as mould growth, and also allow the build-up of hidden dangers such as CO, VOCs, etc. which can have an adverse effect on health. HA speaks to Chris Yates, Managing Director of Johnson & Starley, about how RSLs can help by improving ventilation.

How can poor IAQ affect residents’ health?
Chris: Health issues can range from irritated eyes, nose and throat, headaches, tiredness to difficulty breathing, nausea, confusion and difficulty in concentrating.  With long term exposure there can be damage to the heart, liver or kidneys and central nervous system, as well as hypersensitivity pneumonitis, allergic rhinitis (hay fever) and asthma.