Effective Indoor Air Interventions
Canadians typically spend about 90% of their time indoors. Poor indoor air quality (IAQ) resulting from biological and chemical exposures is associated with the development of acute and chronic cardio-respiratory disease. Biological agents commonly found in indoor environments include mould, house dust mites (HDM), pests, and pet dander. Chemical agents can include environmental tobacco smoke (ETS), asbestos, lead, pesticides, inhalable particulate matter (PM), and gases such as nitrogen dioxide and formaldehyde. Building conditions, including heating and ventilation and outdoor sources also influence IAQ.
The purpose of this evidence review is to assess interventions applicable to a Canadian setting that are undertaken to improve IAQ and health. "Effectiveness" of an intervention was based on demonstrated reductions in both indoor air pollutants and improvements in human health. Studies that assessed both indoor air contaminants as well as IAQ parameters, such as temperature, relative humidity, and CO2, and health outcomes were included in the review.