Optimising air quality: we answer your questions

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Recently, in partnership with Equans, we were delighted to host a webinar panel discussion on all aspects of optimising air quality. The panel delved into workplace and facilities management’s (WFM) responsibilities in devising and implementing strategies to improve buildings, benefitting organisations and professionals.

Following the webinar, there were some questions left unanswered, so we put them to panellists Lewis Chenery, Head of Environment & Sustainability at Equans UK & Ireland, and Greg Davies, Director of Market Development at Assurity Consulting. Read on to discover actionable insights and learn more about IWFM’s work in sustainability here.

What is being done to regulate and control wood burning fireplaces?

Greg: There are requirements over the design, installation and fuels you can use. With the Environment Act 2021, we could see more increased targeting in the future. Discover further detail here.

Given that indoor air quality is invisible, is there a need for public spaces to display their IAQ rating much like Food Standards Agency hygiene rating?

Greg: We already have a system for ambient air (outdoor air) with the Daily Air Quality Index, but to my knowledge nothing for indoor air in the pipeline. However, a number of customers do use the data/information we provide to inform employees (and others) of building air quality.

Is it usual for employers to monitor air quality if the results may not be what they what to see?

Greg: Overall, we find indoor air quality (IAQ) to be better than most people think it is, which is often a reassurance. While there can on occasion be issues, these are often relatively easy to resolve/adjust. Engaging with your workforce over IAQ is critical, as not everyone has the same perception on what is good or bad. Setting agreed (and realistic) targets is the best way to then promote what you are doing as well as correcting anything where and if needed.

How do you believe that individual building/facility managers can be encouraged to prioritise air quality of their aging and newer properties?

Lewis: WFM providers can be encouraged to prioritise air quality by highlighting the tangible benefits of improved indoor air quality on occupant health, productivity and overall building performance. Demonstrating the cost-effectiveness of air quality improvements—such as reduced sick days, higher tenant/building user satisfaction and lower long-term maintenance costs.

Also, showcasing regulatory trends and future-proofing advantages, especially in aging buildings, can help managers see the value of proactive measures. Sharing success stories and providing actionable steps, combined with data from regular IAQ testing, can further build momentum toward prioritising air quality across both new and aging properties.

Are there any quick fixes? What can I get my M&E contractors to look at today?

Lewis: Check the functionality of the ventilation system, including air intakes, exhausts, and ducts; examine ducts, pipework, and air-handling units for leaks or moisture accumulation; review current HVAC settings, particularly ventilation rates and air changes per hour; identify immediate sources of VOCs such as paints, cleaning products, and furnishings; and assess and clean ducts, especially in older buildings or those with heavy industrial use

Can you monitor air quality without it being seen by employees?

Greg: You can do testing out of hours and install kit to monitor air quality out of sight. However, the best and most accurate result, particularly for circulating and locally re-circulated air, are always in-use buildings. As mentioned previously, engaging with your workforce over IAQ is critical.

What are workplace or building managers’ views on the implementation of wellness rating schemes like WELL, LEED, Fitwel, BREEAM etc. as a benchmark for their spaces?

Lewis: From a WFM service provider perspective, implementing wellness rating schemes for air quality is broadly viewed positively as it aligns with the growing demand for healthier workspaces, improves occupant well-being and enhances the marketability of buildings. However, challenges such as the upfront costs of system upgrades and ongoing monitoring are considerations, though they are often outweighed by long-term benefits like improved employee productivity, regulatory compliance and future-proofing the building against evolving standards.

For low-risk businesses, is air quality monitoring affordable and accessible enough for businesses to justify measuring?

Greg: It can be, and all work should be tailored to the environment, installed equipment and hazards apparent. The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992, Regulation 6 (1) requires “Effective and suitable provision shall be made to ensure that every enclosed workplace is ventilated by a sufficient quantity of fresh or purified air.”

Having a reliable assessment of your IAQ allows you to make more informed decisions on what strategies you can then use to maintain and promote it.

Is the best starting point to have your AC maintenance company to measure air quality?

Greg: It is an option, however, I would recommend you have an independent assessment carried out, this will often look further than just the maintenance and involve measurements they may not routinely carry out, so providing you a better overall picture. Also look for organisations working to recognised standards and accreditation to make sure the process and results are reliable and accurate.

Does the panel have a view on the regular retesting of flow rates with regards to ventilation? 

Lewis: Although regular retesting of ventilation flow rates isn’t usually part of standard PPM activities, it’s becoming more important for maintaining good indoor air quality and system performance. Over time, things like system wear, clogged filters, or changes in building occupancy can reduce airflow and efficiency. By incorporating regular flow rate testing, we can ensure the system works as intended, boost energy efficiency, and tackle any issues early, before they impact occupant health or compliance with regulations.

How is it possible to improve the air quality levels to secure places such as archives and libraries, where there are only limited operable windows and fitted with precision AC units for humidity controls?

Lewis: This is always a challenging environment, however, to improve air quality in areas with limited windows and precision AC units, upgrade filtration, use air purifiers, increase mechanical ventilation, monitor IAQ regularly, and maintain systems to balance air quality with humidity control.