How can you maintain a healthy indoor environment in your home or office?

1 Ventilate your space

One of the most important factors for IEQ is ventilation, which is the process of bringing fresh air into your space and removing stale or polluted air. Ventilation helps to dilute and remove contaminants, such as dust, smoke, chemicals, mold, and carbon dioxide, that can accumulate indoors. To ventilate your space, you can open windows and doors, use fans or exhaust systems, or install mechanical ventilation devices that exchange indoor and outdoor air. You should also avoid or minimize sources of indoor air pollution, such as smoking, burning candles, using aerosols, or storing hazardous materials.

2 Control humidity and temperature

Another key factor for IEQ is humidity and temperature, which affect your thermal comfort and the growth of microorganisms. Humidity is the amount of moisture in the air, and temperature is the degree of heat or cold. High humidity and temperature can create a damp and warm environment that promotes the growth of mold, bacteria, and dust mites, which can trigger allergic reactions and respiratory problems. Low humidity and temperature can cause dryness and irritation of the skin, eyes, nose, and throat, as well as increase the risk of colds and flu. To control humidity and temperature, you can use humidifiers or dehumidifiers, adjust your thermostat, use curtains or blinds, or wear appropriate clothing.

3 Clean and maintain your space

A third factor for IEQ is cleanliness and maintenance, which affect the appearance and function of your space. Cleanliness and maintenance involve removing dirt, dust, and clutter, as well as repairing or replacing damaged or faulty equipment or materials. Cleaning and maintaining your space can help to prevent the accumulation of allergens, pests, odors, and moisture, as well as improve the efficiency and safety of your heating, cooling, lighting, and plumbing systems. To clean and maintain your space, you can use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter, wipe surfaces with a damp cloth, dispose of garbage regularly, and check for leaks or cracks.

4 Optimize lighting and noise

A fourth factor for IEQ is lighting and noise, which affect your visual and auditory comfort and performance. Lighting and noise are related to the amount and quality of natural and artificial light and sound in your space. Lighting and noise can influence your mood, alertness, concentration, and sleep quality. Poor lighting and noise can cause or worsen eye strain, headaches, stress, anxiety, and insomnia. To optimize lighting and noise, you can use natural light as much as possible, adjust the brightness and color of artificial light, use curtains or shades, and reduce or block sources of noise, such as appliances, electronics, or traffic.

5 Incorporate plants and aromas

A fifth factor for IEQ is plants and aromas, which affect your sensory and emotional experience and health. Plants and aromas are related to the presence and quality of natural or artificial elements that produce pleasant or beneficial smells and sights in your space. Plants and aromas can enhance your mood, creativity, memory, and relaxation, as well as purify the air, reduce stress, and boost your immune system. To incorporate plants and aromas, you can choose plants that are suitable for your space and care, such as succulents, ferns, or herbs, and use natural or organic aromas, such as essential oils, flowers, or spices.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?