Why is indoor air quality important?
Indoor air quality has a direct impact on our health. Harmful substances such as particulate matter (PM2.5), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and high levels of CO2 can lead to health problems such as respiratory problems, fatigue, and allergies. In institutions such as hospitals and residential care centers, where people often have reduced resistance, it is essential to act proactively and minimize risks.
New Ventilation Act in Belgium
From 10 December 2023, every enclosed space accessible to the public must be equipped with a CO2 meter, which measures the air quality in the room. In addition, operators are required to carry out a risk analysis. The enclosed space does not meet the new reference levels? Then, the operator develops an action plan to improve air quality.
In the new ventilation law, the government sets two reference levels for good air quality: level A and level B. These two levels are indicative and non-binding, and are the values that every operator must aim for when investing in an air quality optimisation action plan.
Reference Level A
Reference Level A determines that the air quality of the room is good if it meets at least one of the following conditions:
- The CO2 concentration is less than 900 ppm.
- The ventilation or purification rate shall be at least 40 m3/h per person present, including at least 25 m3/h of fresh outdoor air.
Reference Level B
Reference Level B states that air quality is sufficient if it meets one or both of the following conditions:
- The CO2 concentration is less than 1200 ppm.
- The ventilation rate is at least 25 m3/h per person present.
Codex Well-being at Work
In addition to this new legislation, the Codex on well-being at work also applies. Codex requires the same CO2 reference levels as described in the new legislation.
In addition, Codex also imposes requirements for the hygiene of the ventilation system in the working environment.
Article 38, paragraph 4 of the Royal Decree of 10 October 2012 stipulates that if an air conditioning system is used, in particular air conditioning systems or mechanical ventilation systems, it must be maintained in such a way as to prevent any deposit of dirt and contamination or fouling of the installation or to remove such dirt as soon as possible or to clean the installation, in such a way as to prevent or reduce any risk to the health of workers resulting from pollution or contamination of the air inhaled.
A clarification regarding the permissible internal fouling of a ventilation system can be found in the NBN EN 15780 standard.
The solution: intelligent monitoring and targeted action
Hamster Cleaning and InsightAir have developed an integrated approach that consists of two main elements:
1. Installation of air quality monitors
- Continuous measurement in critical areas : In public areas such as waiting rooms, hallways, and common areas, air quality monitors are permanently installed.
- Advanced settings : Monitors measure five key parameters:
- Temperature
- Relative humidity
- Particulate matter (PM2.5)
- CO2 (carbon dioxide)
- Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
This data is collected and analyzed in real time. This allows trends to be detected quickly and to intervene in the event of deviations.
2. Inspections intelligentes (inspections 95G) par Hamster Cleaning
In addition to continuous monitoring, Hamster Cleaning conducts a series of 95G inspections. These smart inspections include a thorough assessment of air ducts and ventilation systems, using state-of-the-art technologies to detect dust, dirt, and other blockages.
The combination of these inspections and data from air quality monitors forms the basis for a comprehensive risk analysis.
3. Risk analysis and improvement plan
With the data collected and the results of the inspections, we develop a detailed improvement plan. This plan contains concrete recommendations such as:
- Optimization of ventilation systems
- Periodic maintenance
- Airflow adjustments to improve problem areas
Benefits of this approach
- Proactive compliance with legislation : Through a combination of targeted monitoring and inspections, hospitals and residential care centres comply with the new regulations.
- Cost-effective : By taking targeted measures, costly repairs or emergency measures can be avoided.
- Health and well-being : Better air quality contributes to a healthier and more productive environment for staff, residents and visitors.
Future-oriented collaboration
Hamster Cleaning and InsightAir share a common vision: to create healthy indoor environments. By combining our expertise in air ducts and air quality, we offer a total solution that goes beyond simple compliance with legislation. This is a step towards a more sustainable and healthy future.
Want to learn more about how we can help your organization meet the new indoor air quality standards? Contact Hamster Cleaning or InsightAir for a no-obligation consultation. Together, we are building a healthier environment for all!
