Everything You Need to Know About Air Quality in K-12 Schools for the 2024-2025 Academic Year

The indoor air quality (IAQ) in schools has a notable impact on student and staff health, academic performance, and more. In this article, air quality experts from Camfil explain why air quality in schools matters and what school districts can do to improve school air quality. 

Why Is Clean Air Important in Schools? 

Clean Air Helps Students Learn

School districts, administrators, and teachers invest significant time and resources to ensure optimal student learning. An often disregarded aspect affecting the quality of education is the impact of air pollution on students’ cognitive functions.

Research indicates that high levels of indoor air pollution and inadequate ventilation have a detrimental impact on all nine cognitive function domains (basic activity level, applied activity level, focused activity level, task orientation, crisis response, information seeking, information usage, breadth of approach, and strategy), which are all associated with crucial for learning and carrying out complex tasks.

A 2016 study showed that better air quality and improved ventilation can double cognitive capacity (101% increase in cognitive test scores). 

Children greatly benefit from having sharp cognitive function, as it plays a crucial role in developing critical thinking skills, absorbing information, and acquiring problem-solving abilities. 

Clean Air Increases Productivity

Not only does clean air aid learning by boosting students’ cognitive capabilities, but it also increases productivity. Another study observed the impact of air quality on productivity by measuring office workers’ productivity rates over two eight-week periods. By removing common indoor air pollutants and increasing ventilation over time, the researchers found that poor indoor air quality can reduce productivity by as much as 10%. 

Read more:  Air Pollution and Productivity Explained

Air Pollution May Cause Increased School Absences 

Studies have connected rises in fine particulate matter (PM 2.5) to higher rates of school absenteeism. A Utah-based study revealed that school absences tend to double the day following a “red air day,” when outdoor air quality hits hazardous levels per Air Quality Index data.

Red air days are rare in many parts of the US. However, researchers discovered that slight rises in fine particulate matter result in significantly more student absences in the subsequent days. This is probably due to the illness symptoms triggered by short-term exposure to particulate matter, such as:

• Coughing and sneezing
• A sore or scratchy throat 
• Dizziness
• Headaches and even severe migraines
• Difficulty breathing 

Adequate Air Filtration and Ventilation Prevent the Spread of Communicable Diseases

Numerous contagious diseases that often impact school-age children are airborne, spreading through infected respiratory droplets and aerosols floating in the air. Respiratory droplets, categorized as particulate matter, mostly fall into the PM2.5 size range and can be controlled with the correct air filtration technology. 

Airborne diseases that frequently outbreak in schools include: 

• COVID-19 and its variants
• Influenza 
• RSV
• The common cold 
• Chickenpox
• Whooping cough

Less prevalent yet more serious diseases like tuberculosis and measles are mostly transmitted through the air.

Air Pollutants Disrupt Healthy Brain Development 

Besides harming children’s physical and cognitive health in the short term, it can impede young brain development. A 2023 study investigated the link between pollution exposure and brain connectivity using brain scan data from around ten thousand children aged nine and ten, a critical period for brain development.

Researchers compared the initial brain scans with follow-up scans taken two years later and utilized air quality data from the EPA and other sources to compute the exposure of each child to particulate matter, ozone, and nitrogen dioxide.

The data analysis (which controlled for other factors, like socioeconomic status, that could also affect brain development) discovered differences in brain connectivity among key brain regions associated with air pollution exposure. The study identified significant effects on brain areas such as the prefrontal cortex, amygdala, and hippocampus. Crucially, these impacts were evident even at pollution levels deemed safe by the EPA.

Air Pollution May Increase the Risks of Certain Psychiatric Disorders

Per the American Psychiatric Association (APA), early exposure to air pollution can pose a significant risk in the onset of specific disorders such as depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorders, and even some personality disorders.

In an APA research review of over 100 studies on pollution’s effect on mental health, 73% showed that air pollution exposure raised negative mental health symptoms. Most studies examined the prefrontal cortex, the amygdala, and the hippocampus – brain regions that previous research on brain development also highlighted.

Research has also shown mental health impacts on children specifically. A different research review discovered that kids and teenagers face a higher risk of developing suicidal behaviors and depression symptoms when exposed to higher levels of long-term air pollution. Moreover, increased air pollution levels are associated with more emergency room visits for psychiatric issues among children, showing that short-term exposure can exacerbate existing mental health conditions.

Air Pollution Can Lead to Lifelong Health Complications 

Another manner in which pollution exposure can impact students in the long run is by causing more severe and more frequent asthma attacks, which can then result in the development of childhood obesity.

The connection between asthma and childhood obesity is well established; kids with asthma are about 50% more likely than their non-asthmatic peers to become obese. This is likely because children learn to avoid the discomfort of asthma symptoms by taking up sedentary hobbies and reducing outdoor play and exercise.

Pollutants commonly present in schools like pollen, dust, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) worsen asthma symptoms and provoke severe attacks. With asthma affecting more than six million American children, maintaining clean air indoors is crucial.

Where Does Air Pollution in Schools Come From? 

Air pollution in schools is more prevalent than many people realize. Two primary categories of air pollution sources impact school air quality: ambient pollution infiltrating buildings from outside and indoor pollution from activities and materials inside.

Sources of ambient (or outdoor) air pollution, as well as the specific pollutants present, can vary widely depending on the geographical location of the school building, population density of the local area, local climate and soil composition, and proximity to significant pollution sources such as large roads, manufacturing facilities, and farms, in addition to other factors.  

Even in areas where outdoor air is generally clean and healthy with low scores on the AQI, the daily activities in K-12 schools can generate significant pollution levels that affect students’ health and academic performance.   

Numerous common materials and equipment emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs), some causing harmful short- and long-term effects independently, while others combine with air chemicals to create more hazardous pollutants. Sources of VOCs in schools can include: 

• Cleaning supplies
• Printing and copying machines
• Pesticides
• Personal care products such as hairspray
• Art and shop class supplies, such as paint, varnish, wax, and glue
• Science/laboratory supplies and procedures
• Cheap furniture and flooring
• Dry-erase markers

Furthermore, particulate pollution can come from chalk dust, sawdust, debris from food preparation, by-products of combustion, excessive humidity, and occupants with communicable illnesses.  

While school facilities management teams can aim to select materials and equipment that generate less pollution, it is evident from these lists that eliminating all pollution sources from schools is unattainable, as many are vital for learning activities or essential for a sanitary environment. Instead, the pollutants need to be extracted from the air post-emission. Keep reading to discover the types of air filters and purifiers most suitable for ensuring clean air in schools.

What Air Filters Are the Best for Schools? 

Indoor pollution sources create gaseous pollutants, like VOCs, and particulate matter. Improving air quality in schools requires activated carbon filters and mechanical filters, such as HEPA or MERV-A-rated filters.

School facilities managers should consider the following factors when selecting air filters:

• What are the primary sources of pollution at my school? Can any of these be reduced at the source?
• What is the maximum filter depth the building’s HVAC is capable of housing? 
• What is our overall budget, factoring in both initial price point and ongoing costs such as maintenance, energy, and filter replacement? 
• How frequently can we feasibly conduct maintenance without disrupting the learning environment for students?

Filters that may be considered in combination with each other include: 

• Camfil’s Dual 9 – a MERV 9/9A panel filter for particulate matter that is available in one-inch, two-inch and four-inch versions, has a 5-Star rating on the Energy Cost Index, and is guaranteed to last twelve months in commercial applications. 
• Camfil’s AQ13 – a high-capacity MERV 13 pleated air filter that is compatible with existing air handling units, delivers an exceptionally long service life (twice as long as other MERV 13 pleated panel filters) and meets MERV 13 requirements while lowering operational cost. 
• Camfil’s Durafil ES3 – a high-efficiency filter with an expected service-life of three years and guaranteed to reduce energy usage.  Available in MERV 13A, 14A and 16A, this is the air filtration industry’s premier final filter.
• Camfil’s CityPleat– a combination filter that targets gaseous pollutants and particulate matter with a filter depth of two or four inches, making it ideal for a range of commercial and residential applications. 
• Camfil’s CamCleaner CC500 – a premium air purifier that uses factory-tested and certified 99.99% medical-grade HEPA filters. The CC500 can also help increase air circulation and air changes per hour in classrooms by moving 500 cubic feet of air through its filters per hour and requires no specialized equipment or labor to install. 

Consult an air quality expert for help determining which filters are right for your school. 

About Camfil Clean Air Solutions

For more than half a century, Camfil has been helping people breathe cleaner air. As a leading manufacturer of premium clean air solutions, we provide commercial and industrial systems for air filtration and air pollution control that improve worker and equipment productivity, minimize energy use, and benefit human health and the environment. We firmly believe that the best solutions for our customers are the best solutions for our planet, too. That’s why every step of the way – from design to delivery and across the product life cycle – we consider the impact of what we do on people and on the world around us. Through a fresh approach to problem-solving, innovative design, precise process control, and a strong customer focus we aim to conserve more, use less and find better ways – so we can all breathe easier.

The Camfil Group is headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden, and has 30​ manufacturing sites, six R&D centers, local sales offices in 35+ countries, and about 5,600 employees and growing. We proudly serve and support customers in a wide variety of industries and in communities across the world. To discover how Camfil USA can help you to protect people, processes and the environment, visit us at www.camfil.us/ 

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Media Contact: 

Lynne Laake 

Camfil USA Air Filters 

T: 888.599.6620 

E: Lynne.Laake@camfil.com

F: Friend Camfil USA on Facebook

T: Follow Camfil USA on Twitter 

Y: Watch Camfil Videos on YouTube

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Why Moving Air in Data Centers Is Expensive – High-Efficiency Air Filter Expert for Data Centers from Camfil Explains

Watch Camfil 60-Second Short Video by Camfil Data Center Filtration Experts 

Data centers are the backbone of our digital world, powering everything from streaming services to cloud computing. However, with their immense processing power comes a significant demand for energy. It is estimated a staggering 2.5% of all global energy is consumed by data centers, and surprisingly, a substantial portion of this energy goes directly into maintaining the ideal environment for these critical systems. One of the most significant contributors to this energy consumption is the HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) systems used to regulate the environment within these facilities.

Video https://youtube.com/shorts/atvH_SNnzjM?si=hBYTpbOzaUQUoiUm

The Energy Guzzler:  HVAC in Data Centers

Looking closer at the statistics on energy consumption in data centers is eye-opening. While the majority of the energy consumed in a data center is used to power the computer hardware, around 30% of the total energy is dedicated to maintaining the facility itself. 40% of that portion is attributed to the HVAC system. This system is crucial in ensuring that the temperature and humidity levels are kept within a range that protects the sensitive equipment housed within the data center.

Data centers often refer to the area where active computer server racks are located as the “white space.” This is where the critical work happens, and maintaining an optimal environment in this space is essential to prevent overheating and ensure the smooth operation of the servers. The HVAC systems in place are responsible for moving air through the data center, controlling the temperature, and managing humidity levels. However, this process is energy-intensive and costly.

Why Is Moving Air So Expensive?

The high cost of moving air in data centers stems from the need to maintain precise control over the environment. Servers generate a significant amount of heat during operation, and without proper cooling, the temperature can quickly rise to levels that could damage the equipment or lead to system failures. To combat this, HVAC systems must work continuously, circulating large volumes of air to keep the temperature stable.

Furthermore, the HVAC system must also manage the humidity within the data center. Too much humidity can lead to condensation and potential short circuits, while too little can cause static electricity buildup, both of which are detrimental to the delicate electronic components. Achieving this balance requires sophisticated systems that can monitor and adjust the environment in real-time, further adding to the energy demand.

The Hidden Costs of Data Center Operation

While the focus often lies on the energy consumed by the computer hardware itself, the energy used by the HVAC systems represents a significant and often overlooked cost. As data centers continue to grow in number and capacity, the demand for energy-efficient HVAC solutions becomes even more critical.

Innovations in cooling technology, such as liquid cooling and the use of renewable energy sources, are being explored to reduce the environmental impact of data centers. However, as it stands, the energy required to maintain the optimal environment within a data center remains a considerable expense, both financially and environmentally.

Understanding the energy dynamics of data centers is crucial in addressing their environmental impact. The fact that such a large portion of energy is dedicated to simply moving air highlights the importance of efficiency in HVAC systems. As the world continues to demand more data processing power, finding ways to reduce the energy footprint of data centers will be key to a sustainable digital future. The challenge lies not just in powering these facilities but in doing so in a way that minimizes their impact on the planet.

 

Media Contact:

Lynne Laake

Camfil USA Air Filters

T: 888.599.6620

E: Lynne.Laake@camfil.com

F: Friend Camfil USA on Facebook

T: Follow Camfil USA on Twitter

Y: Watch Camfil Videos on YouTube

L: Follow our LinkedIn Page

 

Other Videos in the Data Center Masterclass Series

1. Data Centers Consume Enormous Amounts of Energy – Understand the massive energy footprint of data centers and the challenges this presents.
2. Air Filters Matter in Data Centers – Discover why the right air filters are crucial for both energy efficiency and equipment longevity.
3. Air Filters Are Technical – A look into the technical aspects of air filters and what makes them effective.
4. HVAC Equipment Matters – Exploring the role of HVAC systems in maintaining optimal conditions in data centers.
5. The Ideal MERV 13 Air Filter – Why MERV 13 air filters are the gold standard for data centers.
6. Nine-Month Pre-Filters Exist – Introducing long-lasting pre-filters that reduce maintenance needs.
7. Lowest Pressure Drop, Three Year Life – Highlighting filters that offer low-pressure drops and extended service life.
8. Camfil Delivers Energy Savings to Data Centers – A case study on how Camfil’s solutions have already made a difference.

The post Why Moving Air in Data Centers Is Expensive – High-Efficiency Air Filter Expert for Data Centers from Camfil Explains appeared first on Air Filters for Clean Air.

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Strategies to Improve Indoor Air Quality Throughout the University Campus

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the significance of indoor air quality (IAQ). With people spending approximately 90% of their time indoors, ensuring clean and healthy indoor air is crucial for the safety, comfort and well-being of the building occupants.¹ For educational institutions, IAQ plays a vital role in the quality of teaching and learning, as well as student cognition and performance. To improve IAQ throughout their campus, universities must adopt building management programs that include air ventilation and filtration strategies.

Pollutants that contaminate universities

Gaseous contaminants, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and airborne particulate matter are the main air pollutants found in university settings. They are generated from cleaning supplies, pesticides, building materials and furnishings, mold, viruses, dust, dirt and smoke. Particulate matter is especially harmful as it can penetrate the lungs and brain, causing severe health problems. 

These air pollutants can have various adverse effects on students, faculty and staff, including headaches, allergic reactions, eye irritation, itchy skin, bronchitis, fatigue and discomfort that results in higher absenteeism and poor concentration. 

Some individuals may experience sick building syndrome, characterized by adverse symptoms when entering a building that subside when they leave. Long-term exposure to poor IAQ can result in serious health effects such as chronic respiratory diseases, pneumonia, cardiovascular problems and even cancer. More than 5 million people die every year prematurely from illnesses attributable to poor IAQ.² 

Research shows that poor indoor air damages our cognitive abilities.³ Prolonged exposure to poor air has been linked to a 27% higher risk of cognitive dysfunction compared to the general population.

Compliance requirements

To address IAQ problems and prevent adverse health consequences, university facility and maintenance managers must respond effectively with air quality programs. Educational institutions also are obliged to adhere to ASHRAE standards and EPA building codes for IAQ while seeking new ways to sustainability by improving IAQ. 

While the EPA regulates IAQ through the Indoor Air Quality Act of 1991,⁴ ASHRAE Standard 62.1 Ventilation for Acceptable Indoor Air Quality⁵ outlines minimum ventilation rates and other measures to maintain IAQ. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health also provides a self-inspection checklist with recommendations to schools in addressing IAQ issues.⁶ Although these guidelines are not mandatory, non-compliance can result in financial loss due to health-related claims and potential building damage. 

IAQ strategies 

University IAQ strategies should incorporate air ventilation and filtration best practices to mitigate the spread of airborne particles, VOCs and other pollutants that contaminate the air. Ventilation systems are essential as they circulate air by removing stale air and introducing fresh air to dilute and displace air pollutants. While ventilation provides the necessary oxygen, air filtration systems capture airborne contaminants, removing them from the air so that they do not enter the environment. 

It’s doubtful a single  air filtration solution will work in all the buildings and spaces found in a typical university setting.  It takes a tailored approach to select the optimum air filter by considering the type of air handling equipment, the local environmental conditions, , an understanding of the occupancy levels,  and what’s required to comply with  state, local and school district regulations.  

Classrooms and lecture halls

Classrooms and lecture halls frequented by large groups of people throughout the day should use demand-controlled mechanical ventilation systems to adjust airflow based on occupancy. Often, ventilation air into these spaces is through a single-stage filtration system and while a two-stage system offers better filtration, there are filter options for single-stage units that significantly improve the quality of air. 

The CDC, OSHA and ASHRAE recommend using MERV-13 air filters as the minimum filter efficiency for HVAC systems. These filters have a Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) of 13, capturing 85% of particles 1 micron and larger.  

The AQ13 high capacity pleated filter from Camfil meets MERV 13 requirements and offers twice the service life of competitive filters. The Hi-Flo ES also meets MERV 13 requirements and is a good choice for larger air handling units that are difficult to service (requiring a ladder or other assisted device) as it requires fewer changes and is packaged in such a way to allow for multiple filters to be carried by one person. 

Buildings with less efficient natural ventilation would benefit from portable air purifiers equipped with particulate and molecular filters to remove dust, contaminants and airborne particles. The CamCleaner CC500 fills the requirement as a portable air purifier with high-efficiency particulate absorbing (HEPA) filtration.  It does a good job dealing with local air quality issues. 

Libraries and study areas

To maintain a quiet study environment, a low-noise HVAC system can be used along with MERV 13 air filters for air filtration. Additionally, air purifiers equipped with activated carbon filters can supplement the HVAC system to remove odors and volatile organic compounds.

Dorms

In dormitories, ceiling and exhaust fans can enhance air circulation to prevent stuffiness.  A minimum of MERV 13 air filter should be used to capture smaller mold, allergens, bacteria and virus particles. Dehumidifiers also can help to maintain appropriate indoor levels, especially in humid climates. 

Dining halls/gyms

Molecular filtration is recommended to control gases and odors generated in dining halls and gyms. Camfil CityPleat filters are suitable for these areas as they remove particulates, gases and odors with better initial removal efficiencies and offer a longer lifetime against molecular contaminants. 

HVAC systems should provide sufficient ventilation to accommodate the high occupancy during mealtimes. The use of commercial-grade exhaust hoods along with ventilation systems can help manage smoke, grease, and odors. Adhere to your local health department guidelines for kitchen ventilation and air quality when choosing a ventilation/filtration system.

Gymnasiums and recreation halls need increased ventilation rates to handle higher levels of CO2 and humidity produced during physical activities. Demand-controlled ventilation can be used to adjust airflow based on occupancy and activity levels. 

In all these spaces where a minimum of MERV 13 filters are recommended, it is advisable to work with an experienced air filtration expert to determine if the air handling units can handle higher MERV-rated filters. Increasing to MERV 14 significantly improves the filtration of sub-micron particles. 

Laboratories

Laboratories are unique spaces and require specialized ventilation systems separate from general building HVAC systems to prevent cross-contamination. Specific areas may employ fume hoods and local exhaust ventilation to control exposure to hazardous chemicals. 

Labs usually require a minimum 99.97% filtration efficiency at 0.3 microns, which can be achieved with filters such as Camfil’s XH Absolute high capacity HEPA/ULPA-grade filter or the Absolute VG HEPA V-bank air filter, which has a surface area twice the size of a standard HEPA filter and is certified to a minimum efficiency of 99.99% at 0.3 microns.

Multi-stage filtration

When air handling units are configured to hold multiple stages of air filtration, building managers now have many different options available.  Two stages of filtration allow these systems to purify the air to the highest standard by using a combination of different filters targeted to remove specific contaminants such as allergens, mold and odors. They also prove cost-effective by ensuring the final filter lasts longer, which reduces maintenance costs and other related operational costs such as energy, and extends the period of air purification until needing to replace or clean filters. 

The Camfil Durafil ES3 high-performance V-bank filter can be used as a second-stage filter to reduce total energy consumption.  It is designed to have an optimum contaminant loading curve, ensuring consistent particle capture efficiency to protect building occupants from contaminants. When removing fine particulate matter, the MERV 16A version offers the highest efficiency while carbon filters like the Camfil CityCarb I are efficient in removing both solids and gaseous contaminants. 

Expanding IAQ strategies to different areas within a university requires a tailored approach based on specific environmental and occupancy conditions. What works for the classroom may not be a sufficient solution for the dining hall or gymnasium. Evaluate each area to determine requirements. Making IAQ a priority makes students, faculty and staff a priority by ensuring their health and safety when on campus. 

About Camfil Clean Air Solutions

Camfil offers air filtration solutions that address all air quality issues in educational institutions. For more than half a century, we have been helping people breathe cleaner air. As a leading manufacturer of premium clean air solutions, we provide commercial and industrial systems for air filtration and air pollution control that improve worker and equipment productivity, minimize energy use, and benefit human health and the environment. We firmly believe that the best solutions for our customers are the best solutions for our planet, too. That’s why every step of the way – from design to delivery and across the product life cycle – we consider the impact of what we do on people and the world around us. Through a fresh approach to problem-solving, innovative design, precise process control, and a strong customer focus we aim to conserve more, use less, and find better ways – so we can all breathe easier.

The Camfil Group is headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden, and has 30​ manufacturing sites, six R&D centers, local sales offices in 35+ countries, and about 5,600 employees and growing. We proudly serve and support customers in a wide variety of industries and communities across the world. To discover how Camfil USA can help you to protect people, processes, and the environment, visit us at www.camfil.us/. 

 

¹https://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq

²https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0045653520325716

³https://www.cnn.com/2018/08/27/health/air-pollution-cognitive-abilities-intl/index.html

⁴https://www.govtrack.us/congress/bills/102/s455/summary

⁵https://static1.squarespace.com/static/6320b844c3820725e4d5688f/t/6372af076022e56f815dc7f5/1668460297956/ASHRAE+62.1-2022+%281%29.pdf

⁶https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/docs/2004-101/chklists/6indoo~1.htm

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Denver Air Quality Ranked Worst in United States — Insights from Air Quality Experts

As smoke from wildfires across the Pacific Northwest and Canada descend on the city, Denver’s air quality ranked as the worst in the United States for two consecutive days (July 24 and 25). 

Air quality alerts have been reissued by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) for several counties in Eastern Colorado. In this article, air quality experts from Camfil explain the causes and effects of Denver’s poor air quality. 

Air Quality Alerts Issued in Eastern Colorado — Wildfire Smoke Air Quality Impact Explained

CDPHE stated that warm and stagnant weather, coupled with rising levels of out-of-state wildfire smoke, may lead to unhealthy ozone concentrations and fine particulate matter, affecting air quality.

Wildfires in the U.S. mainly impact the West Coast and northern states, but their smoke can travel hundreds or thousands of miles, leading to hazy conditions and poor air quality even far from the fire. While the majority of the large ongoing fires responsible for poor air quality in Denver are located hundreds of miles away in Oregon, Washington, and Canada, wind has carried high concentrations of pollution south. 

Wildfires result in both complete and incomplete burning of wood, plant matter, and other organic materials in forests, leading to varying emissions of gaseous and particulate pollution. The pollutants most frequently found in wildfires include:

• ozone
• sulfur dioxide 
• nitrogen oxides 
• carbon monoxide 
• carbon dioxide
• volatile organics compounds (VOCs) 
• water vapor

The other category of pollutant is particulate matter. Particulate matter is defined as any solid or liquid particle small enough to remain suspended in the air. Particulate matter is a common result of the combustion processes that occur in wildfires, including substances such as soot and black carbon.

Why Is Wildfire Smoke a Health Concern? 

Breathing in wildfire smoke is harmful to your health. If you reside in the United States, chances are you’ve felt the effects of wildfire smoke at some point in the last year, including eye, nose and throat irritation, difficulty breathing, issues with concentration, dizziness, headaches, and other symptoms. 

The discomfort caused by acute exposure to wildfire smoke is usually temporary and may not cause any lasting damage, but exposure to wildfire smoke can cause severe long-term health issues. 

Tiny PM2.5 particles can deeply penetrate the lungs and bloodstream. Even smaller ozone gas molecules can enter cells and major organs, causing irreversible damage. The EPA labels ozone as “sunburn for the lungs” due to this effect. Wildfire smoke pollutants can result in severe complications, especially with repeated short-term exposures or chronic exposure to wildfire pollutants.

How to Stay Safe When Denver Air Quality Is Affected by Wildfire Smoke

To account for air quality advisories and poor ambient air quality during wildfire season, it’s crucial to consider the effects of wildfire smoke and prepare accordingly, regardless of whether you live in an area directly affected by wildfires.

1. When there’s a wildfire smoke pollution risk, protect yourself by staying indoors when air quality advisories are in place or if you notice haze. Keep doors and windows shut to keep indoor air clean. If you must go outside, minimize time spent outdoors.
2. Air quality experts recommend refraining from exercising outdoors; in particular, strenuous activities such as running, cycling, and hiking should be avoided. Deeper, more frequent breathing during these activities results in inhaling a higher volume of polluted air.
3. To uphold good health during periods of high air pollution, it’s vital to seek indoor areas with regulated, well-filtered air circulation. Additionally, while ample ventilation is good for indoor air quality when outdoor air quality is good or fair, it’s crucial to guarantee that any exterior air undergoes appropriate filtration before entering enclosed spaces during periods of heavy pollution. Remember that being indoors doesn’t shield your lungs from pollution. Due to outdated building design, insufficient air filtration, and other variables, indoor air quality could be up to 50 times worse than outdoor air.
4. Ensure proper filtration in your home. It’s important not only for purifying the air you breathe but also because typical HVAC systems can’t manage the high pollution levels from wildfire smoke. The panel and fiberglass filters in HVAC systems are designed to shield the equipment from regular air pollution. In wildfire season, you might need to replace your HVAC air filters more often.

READ MORE: How to Improve Indoor Air Quality in Areas Affected by Wildfires 

About Camfil Clean Air Solutions

For more than half a century, Camfil has been helping people breathe cleaner air. As a leading manufacturer of premium clean air solutions, we provide commercial and industrial systems for air filtration and air pollution control that improve worker and equipment productivity, minimize energy use, and benefit human health and the environment. We firmly believe that the best solutions for our customers are the best solutions for our planet, too. That’s why every step of the way – from design to delivery and across the product life cycle – we consider the impact of what we do on people and the world around us. Through a fresh approach to problem-solving, innovative design, precise process control, and a strong customer focus we aim to conserve more, use less, and find better ways – so we can all breathe easier.

The Camfil Group is headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden, with 30​ manufacturing sites, six R&D centers, local sales offices in 35+ countries, and about 5,600 employees and growing. We proudly serve and support customers in a wide variety of industries and communities across the world. To discover how Camfil USA can help you to protect people, processes, and the environment, visit us at www.camfil.us/ 

##

 

Media Contact: 

Lynne Laake 

Camfil USA Air Filters 

T: 888.599.6620 

E: Lynne.Laake@camfil.com

F: Friend Camfil USA on Facebook

T: Follow Camfil USA on Twitter 

Y: Watch Camfil Videos on YouTube

L: Follow our LinkedIn Page

The post Denver Air Quality Ranked Worst in United States — Insights from Air Quality Experts appeared first on Air Filters for Clean Air.

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Everything You Need to Know About Mechanical Air Filters

Mechanical air filters are an essential component in most HVAC systems, providing cleaner air to employees in commercial buildings, students in schools, workers in factories, patients in hospitals, and more. 

In this article, air filtration experts from Camfil explain the critical role of mechanical air filters in a variety of applications, discuss how air filtration efficiency is measured and published, explore the main types of mechanical air filters, and provide tips for choosing the best mechanical air filter for your building. 

What Are Mechanical Air Filters? 

The fabric portion of an air filter is a non-woven fabric constructed of various fiber sizes intertwined together in a random pattern to create a three-dimensional structure known as filter media. As air works its way through the maze of fibers, particles are captured and removed by well-established mechanical filtration principles, allowing cleaner air to exit on the downstream side of the air filter. 

Particulate pollution, or particulate matter, is a term used to describe any solid or liquid particles suspended in the airstream. While the composition of particulate matter varies widely between different environments, small enough particles are known to be harmful to the human body, including the heart, lungs, brain, nervous system, and other vital organs and processes.

Filter Efficiency: HEPA, ULPA, and MERV Ratings

Not all mechanical air filters provide the same protection. The efficiency of a filter is determined by its ability to capture and retain particles of varying sizes. This is often measured in Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) ratings, with higher numbers indicating better filtration performance. As discussed below, HEPA and ULPA indicate higher filter efficiency than filters rated using the MERV system. 

HEPA Filters

HEPA stands for “high-efficiency particulate air” filter. An actual HEPA filter removes at least 99.97% of particles with a size of 0.3 micrometers from the air. 

HEPA filters should be individually factory-tested to global testing standards to show that they are capable of delivering this level of protection. However, there is no official regulation of the term HEPA, meaning that companies can and often do claim that their products are ‘true HEPA filters’ without having the paperwork to back up the claim. Make sure the HEPA filter you choose is tested and certified with a label on it confirming factory testing and providing results. Be cautious of manufacturers unable to furnish documentation proving their air filters meet HEPA standards.

Learn more: HEPA Filters Explained — How Do HEPA Filters Work? 

ULPA Filters 

ULPA (which stands for “ultra-low particulate air”) filters are even more effective at removing particulate matter from the air than HEPA filters. ULPA filters remove a minimum of 99.999% of MPPS (most penetrating particle size) fine particulate matter with particles greater than 120 nanometers (0.12 micrometers) in size. 

To clarify the scale of those particles, there are one million microns in a meter, and one thousand nanometers in a micron (therefore there are one billion nanometers in a meter). A human hair is, on average, 70 micrometers, or 70,000 nanometers, in diameter. The minimum particle size that ULPA filters can remove from the air is almost 600 times smaller than the width of a human hair. 

The level of air filtration efficiency that ULPA filters offer is far more than is needed for most residential and commercial applications; even in most patient-facing medical settings such as hospitals, HEPA filters provide adequate protection. ULPA filters are primarily used in cleanrooms and other applications where complete sterility is required, such as manufacturing sensitive computer parts, batteries, pharmaceuticals, and medical equipment. 

MERV & MERV-A Ratings 

MERV is an acronym for minimum efficiency reporting value. The MERV rating and testing standard was initially developed in 1999 by ASHRAE, an international professional organization that offers guidelines and standards for HVAC-related technologies.

The MERV value indicates how effectively a filter captures particles within certain size ranges; when a filter is better at capturing smaller particles, it is assigned a higher MERV value. 

To determine a filter’s MERV rating, particles of specific sizes are passed through a test duct onto the filter. These particles fall into three size categories: E1, E2, and E3. The filter’s effectiveness against all three size categories is evaluated against a MERV chart, and the final MERV rating is the highest value that meets all three requirements. For example, in order to achieve a MERV 13 value, the tested filter must be at least 50% efficient on dirt particles in the E1 range, at least 85% on E2 range and at least 90% on E3. 

The highest MERV rating according to ASHRAE standards is MERV-16; it is important to be wary of filters claiming to have MERV ratings higher than that. Even the highest-rated MERV filter will not be as effective as an actual HEPA filter. 

It is also essential to remember that a higher MERV rating isn’t necessarily always better. Air filters can feature an electrostatic charge that functions akin to a magnet, temporarily boosting particle capture efficiency across three size categories. This leads to a higher MERV rating for the filter. Yet, as the filter accumulates dirt, the charge loses its ability to draw in particles, causing the MERV rating to decline. For instance, a MERV-13 filter can decrease in particle capture efficiency long before it needs to be changed and match that of a MERV-8 filter, resulting in reduced protection for individuals and equipment compared to its original MERV-13 rating.

ASHRAE testing standards outline an additional method to assess filter efficiency devoid of electrostatic charge, producing MERV-A values. To differentiate between MERV and MERV-A, think of the “A” with “actual,” indicating that a filter’s MERV-A rating reflects its non-degrading filtration efficiency. 

As is the case for HEPA and ULPA filters, MERV-rated filters should undergo factory testing to ensure that they are providing the level of protection for which they are designed. When purchasing a MERV-rated filter, your provider should provide the paperwork showing the results of these factory tests. 

Types of Mechanical Air Filters

Panel Filters 

Panel filters often serve as the only air filter in HVAC systems in commercial, and residential buildings. Elsewhere, they act as prefilters, safeguarding and prolonging the lifespan of more efficient and more sensitive final filters in a multi-stage filtration system. These filters protect sensitive equipment from larger particles, prevent higher efficiency filters from becoming clogged too quickly, and can provide some protection to our lungs from particulate matter depending on the quality and efficiency of the filter. 

Example: Camfil’s 30/30 Dual 9

Compact Filters (V-Bank and Box)

Compact filters are used as final filters in industrial, commercial, and medical applications, providing better protection and long service life as part of a multi-stage filtration system than panel filters alone. They may also be used as prefilters in HEPA installations. Compact filters can withstand greater variations in airflow than panel filters and may be designed to withstand turbulence. 

Example:  Camfil’s Durafil ES3

Bag Filters 

Bag air filters or pocket air filters can serve as prefilters or even as a single final filter.  There are a wide variety of bag filters produced that are effective in applications ranging from indoor shooting ranges to food and beverage to data centers. While they typically have slightly less service life than V-bank filters, their design makes them far easier to transport and install. 

Example: Camfil’s Hi-Flo ES

Considerations for Choosing the Right Mechanical Air Filter 

When selecting the right mechanical air filter for your needs, various factors should be taken into account to ensure optimal filter performance, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness. 

Pollutants

The size and type of particles you need to filter out, as well as determining whether or not you need a molecular filter to target gaseous pollutants, play a critical role in determining the appropriate filter. The geographical location of your site (including proximity to large roads, airports, and industrial processes) and pollutants generated within the building are both important considerations; for example, a bakery that generates large amounts of flour dust, which can damage baking equipment and cause contamination of products, will need different solutions than an office building.  

Another related consideration is humidity; filters that will be housed in high-humidity areas should be made of materials that are designed to withstand deterioration, mold growth, and other potential issues from excessive moisture in the air.

The best way to assess current pollution levels is to consult with an experienced air filtration specialist, who can help you measure and monitor pollutants. 

Application & IAQ Goals

Another important factor to consider is what your site hopes to achieve with new air filters. The level of filtration needed to protect HVAC equipment is different from what is needed to protect human health; furthermore, preventing the spread of airborne communicable diseases in a school requires a different approach to ensuring safe conditions in a hospital operating room. 

Airflow Rate

Ensuring that the chosen filter can handle your system’s air volume without causing significant pressure drops is crucial for maintaining energy efficiency and preventing strain on your HVAC or other air filtration system. For high-turbulence applications, it is important to select a filter that is designed to withstand turbulent airflow. 

Maintenance Requirements 

Some filters are designed for easy replacement or cleaning, minimizing downtime and labor costs associated with their upkeep. Always balance upfront costs against long-term maintenance expenses and potential energy savings when making your choice.

Air Filtration Expertise

For advice specific to your site, please reach out to your local Camfil representative.

About Camfil Clean Air Solutions

For more than half a century, Camfil has been helping people breathe cleaner air. As a leading manufacturer of premium clean air solutions, we provide commercial and industrial systems for air filtration and air pollution control that improve worker and equipment productivity, minimize energy use, and benefit human health and the environment. We firmly believe that the best solutions for our customers are the best solutions for our planet, too. That’s why every step of the way – from design to delivery and across the product life cycle – we consider the impact of what we do on people and the world around us. Through a fresh approach to problem-solving, innovative design, precise process control, and a strong customer focus we aim to conserve more, use less, and find better ways – so we can all breathe easier.

The Camfil Group is headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden, and has 30 manufacturing sites, six R&D centers, local sales offices in 35+ countries, and about 5,600 employees and growing. We proudly serve and support customers in a wide variety of industries and communities across the world. To discover how Camfil USA can help you to protect people, processes, and the environment, visit us at www.camfil.us/

Media Contact:

Lynne Laake

Camfil USA Air Filters

T: 888.599.6620

E: Lynne.Laake@camfil.com

F: Friend Camfil USA on Facebook

T: Follow Camfil USA on Twitter

Y: Watch Camfil Videos on YouTube

L: Follow our LinkedIn Page

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Strategies for Enhancing Indoor Air Quality of Life Sciences Labs

Maintaining indoor air quality (IAQ) is as critical as ensuring clean outdoor air, as both impact the health, safety and comfort of millions. While global efforts focus on outdoor air quality, it is essential for schools, manufacturers, healthcare institutions, biotech companies and commercial building owners to take responsibility for the IAQ within their facilities. Air filters play a crucial role in achieving high IAQ by capturing various contaminants present in indoor environments.

Indoor air pollutants originate from multiple sources, including particulate matter, chemicals from cleaning products and pesticides, off-gassing from building materials, germs, bacteria and outdoor air pollution. Sensitive industries, such as life sciences, face unique contaminants and risks that can affect worker health and research outcomes.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) identifies IAQ as one of the top five most urgent environmental risks to public health. In the short term, poor IAQ can cause headaches and eye irritations and exacerbate existing conditions such as asthma. Long-term exposure to air contaminants can even result in lung and heart disease.  

The Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 requires companies to provide a place of employment free from recognized hazards that can harm employees. It also lists regulated air contaminants. By using Camfil air filters, companies can seek to comply with permissible exposure limits (PELs) by capturing contaminated air particulates and fumes before they enter the working environment. 

Challenges Faced by Life Science Labs

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) estimates that more than half a million workers are employed in labs across the United States. Lab environments can be hazardous, with chemicals and equipment generating particulate matter, trace elements, inorganic gases and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that negatively impact IAQ. 

• Particulate Matter: Sources of particulate matter in labs include Bunsen burners and powders used in experiments. Smaller particulates pose a higher danger to human health. For instance, ultrafine particles measuring less than 0.1 micrometers can penetrate deeply into the respiratory system and heart, causing severe health issues.
• Trace Elements: Metals and biologics can be released into the atmosphere from solid materials, powders and chemicals used during research. Inorganic gases such as sulfur dioxide (SO2) and carbon dioxide (CO2) can be produced by specific equipment and compounding processes.
• VOCs: VOCs in labs come from solvents, cleaning agents and chemical agents. These can emit gases into the environment due to bottle leakage, spills, evaporation from open sources and mixing processes. Because of their potential health hazards, VOCs are regulated by the EPA under the National Volatile Organic Compound Emission Standards for Consumer and Commercial Products.
• Other Contaminants: Additional sources of contaminants in labs include water and ultrasonic baths, organic wastes, deionized or ultrapure water systems, unsterilized equipment, sample oven drying, bioaerosols and germs from staff.

Regulatory Standards and Guidelines

Laboratories must adhere to local, state and federal regulations. Organizations such as ASHRAE, OSHA and the EPA outline rules and guidelines to improve laboratory safety for workers.

As part of its Lab Standard, OSHA has established permissible exposure limits that specify the amount and duration that workers can be exposed to various hazardous and chemical substances. These PELs are crucial for evaluating labs and implementing adequate control measures such as industrial filters, to meet acceptable levels of exposure. OSHA also provides a webpage that offers current information on lab safety for lab and facility managers.

ASHRAE Standard 62.1 is the recognized standard for Ventilation and Acceptable Indoor Air Quality for commercial and institutional buildings. Revised in 2022, it now extends beyond basic ventilation requirements to recognize the importance of equipment, filtration, and controls in achieving comprehensive air quality. This standard plays a vital role in maintaining acceptable air quality levels in both new and existing buildings. 

As part of its pollution prevention initiative, the EPA addresses various environmental topics including IAQ and ways to reduce exposure to VOCs. The EPA also initiated the Clean Air in Buildings Challenge to help facility managers and building operators improve IAQ. The Challenge includes a set of best practices to help reduce risks from airborne contaminants. 

Air Quality Improvement Tactics

The Clean Air in Buildings Challenge outlines several key action items to optimize fresh air ventilation and enhance air filtration. These tactics include:

• Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV) 

LEV systems remove pollutants at their source before they can spread into a building’s indoor air. These systems collect hazardous fumes and particles at their point of origin and safely exhaust them, minimizing health risks for employees.

• HVAC Systems

In addition to regulating indoor climates, HVAC systems improve air quality by ventilating air. They exchange or replace air in a specific space, diluting or removing indoor pollutants. It’s important to determine the required amount of clean air (outdoor air plus filtered HVAC recirculated air) for a space and ensure that the outdoor air is clean or filtered before it enters the building.

• Air Filtration

Air filters are an integral component of HVAC systems, trapping and removing airborne particles to prevent pollutants from circulating into the environment. Using the correct filter significantly reduces the number of harmful particles in the air. For example, MERV 13 air filters or higher can capture various airborne particulates with high efficiency. Air filters rated a minimum of MERV 13/13A installed in HVAC systems capture an average of 85 percent of particles 1 micron and larger and 50 percent of particles larger than 0.3 microns. A MERV 14/14A filter eliminates an average of 75 percent of particles larger than 0.3 microns, while a MERV 16/16A filter targets 95 percent removal of particles larger than 0.3 microns.

Labs typically use high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters that remove a minimum of  99.97% of airborne particles larger than 0.3 microns. (See Types of Air Filtration.)

• Air Cleaners

Air cleaners supplement HVAC system ventilation and filtration for specific applications or areas that are difficult to ventilate. However, air cleaners alone cannot ensure adequate air quality for some pollutant sources. 

In the life sciences industry, high-efficiency air cleaners can help control contaminants that affect product, lab researchers and processes. Camfil offers a line of standalone industrial air cleaners in fit-for-purpose designs. These include the CamCleaner air cleaners that use certified HEPA and molecular filtration to remove dust particles, odors and gases. 

Air Filtration Solutions for Different Labs

In the life sciences industry, laboratories have specific air quality requirements to ensure the safety of staff, equipment, processes and products. Air filtration is essential for eliminating odors, gases and air particulates, maintaining the strict cleanliness levels necessary for the research and development of vaccines, new drugs and therapies. 

Outlined below are different air filtration solutions used by labs to address specific requirements. 

• Formaldehyde Odor:  The odor of formaldehyde is a significant issue in labs, causing headaches for staff who inhale this compound. Air cleaners equipped with absolute HEPA filters and molecular filtration efficiently address formaldehyde and other VOCs, effectively removing lab odors. These air cleaners offer a plug-and-play solution and are adaptable for different applications around the lab. 
• In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) laboratories:  These labs require a high level of process cleanliness and air quality. Airborne pollutants can dissolve in aqueous solutions of embryo culture mediums that cannot protect themselves. Studies show a direct relationship between clean air and procedural success. Removing airborne particles and gaseous contaminants can improve in vitro fertility rates. 

         In these situations, general ventilation air filters are insufficient for stringent molecular air quality control. HEPA filters, which efficiently capture particles as small as  0.3 microns, create a cleaner culture environment for embryo development. A filtration system comprising HEPA and broad-spectrum, targeted molecular media ensures the removal of these contaminants.

         For even higher filtration, ultra-low penetration air (ULPA) filters can collect particles down to 0.12 microns in size. They are commonly used in creating a cleanroom environment for specific applications, though they are costlier both in purchase price and operational cost. 

• Biosafety Labs:  Researchers in these labs study infectious agents, bacteria, viruses, parasites and toxic substances can pose a serious threat if uncollected particles or gas molecules enter the air. An air filtration system that captures all potentially harmful airborne pathogens is imperative to protect workers and the environment from highly dangerous biological and chemical risks.

          Filtration depends on the biosafety level of the lab. There are four biosafety levels, with BSL-4 indicating labs that can handle agents causing severe or even fatal untreatable diseases. Many BSL-4 labs around the world rely on air quality solutions to attain the highest level of safety. Camfil offers high-capacity filters with efficiency options up to 99.9995%, along with safe-change housings that prevent hazardous airborne materials from escaping into the environment. 

• Cleanrooms:  Many labs require cleanrooms that offer the highest level of cleanliness by filtering out microscopic pollutants such as airborne particles and microbes. This is to protect critical processes and personnel and prevent the escape of hazardous compounds. ISO 14644 specifies different classifications of air cleanliness based on airborne particle concentration in cleanrooms and clean zones. 

          High-quality filtration systems with HEPA-grade filters ensure regulatory compliance and maintain efficient operations. For cleanroom applications, Camfil offers HEPA/ULPA panel filters for installation in clean room ceiling modules or filter housings. These filters provide 95% efficiency in capturing particles up to 0.3 microns in size and up to 99.99995% for most penetrating particle sizes.

          As part of a total air filtration system, Camfil also offers panel filters that serve as prefilters to protect and extend the life of valuable final filters. Implemented during the initial stage of filtration, they capture larger particles to protect primary HEPA filters. High-capacity and high-efficiency air filters serve as final filters in multi-stage units supplying air areas not requiring HEPA filtration.

IAQ is a priority in laboratories as it impacts worker health and research quality. Facility personnel and lab managers should work together to conduct an IAQ assessment to identify problems and sources of contaminants in creating a plan that sets goals and objectives for making upgrades and changes that improve IAQ. 

Camfil can assist in this journey by visiting facilities and determining the right filtration system for a specific lab facility. We have the real-world expertise and breadth of products to provide thoroughly tested and energy-efficient particulate and molecular air filtration solutions for the life sciences industry. As new regulations and lab requirements emerge within the life sciences, Camfil keeps pace with new technology that ensures efficient air filtration for the highest IAQ. 

To learn more about air filtration solutions for laboratories or to discuss specific air filtration needs and challenges, please contact Camfil today for a consultation. 

 

¹https://www.osha.gov/sites/default/files/publications/3430indoor-air-quality-sm.pdf

²https://www.osha.gov/sites/default/files/publications/3430indoor-air-quality-sm.pdf

³https://www.osha.gov/annotated-pels/table-z-3

⁴https://www.labmanager.com/fulfilling-the-osha-lab-standard-21666#Applicability%E2%80%94Who%20Is%20Covered?

⁵T. Ugranli, E. Gungormus, A. Sofuoglu and S.C. Sofuoglu, Izmir Institute of Technology, Izmir, Turkey. Indoor Air Quality in Chemical Laboratories, Chapter 32, https://core.ac.uk/download/pdf/324142244.pdf

⁶https://www.osha.gov/laws-regs/regulations/standardnumber/1910/1910.1450

⁷https://www.osha.gov/laboratories

⁸https://www.ashrae.org/news/hvacrindustry/updated-standard-62-1

⁹https://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq/clean-air-buildings-challenge

¹⁰https://www.epa.gov/system/files/documents/2022-03/508-cleanairbuildings_factsheet_v5_508.pdf

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Volatile Organic Compounds Explained: FAQs Answered by Camfil Indoor Air Quality Specialists

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are a group of chemicals that easily become vapors or gases at room temperature. They are found in many everyday products, from paints and cleaning supplies to building materials and furnishings. Understanding VOCs is crucial for maintaining indoor air quality, as their presence can significantly impact health and well-being. This document aims to answer frequently asked questions about VOCs, providing insights from Camfil’s indoor air quality specialists to help building managers create safe, healthy indoor environments for employees and guests.

What Are Volatile Organic Compounds?

The term volatility is used in chemistry to describe how easily a chemical or substance vaporizes (turns into its gaseous state without a chemical reaction taking place). The more volatile a chemical is, the easier it is for it to turn into a gas, and the more likely it is to exist as a gas than as a solid or a liquid. The volatility of any given chemical has no specific numerical value or unit of measurement of its own and is instead related to the boiling point and molecular weight of the chemical. 

An organic compound is a term used to describe any molecule containing carbon and at least one other element. Volatile organic compounds, therefore, are carbon-based molecules that evaporate rapidly at room temperature. If you have ever handled mineral spirits (benzene), the fumes it emits immediately are the liquid benzene evaporating into a gas; its volatility is advantageous because it leaves no residue, but also presents a potential fire hazard because (as is the case with many other VOCs), it is highly combustible and can catch fire at room temperature.

A vast number of chemical compounds are VOCs but are not considered a significant threat to human health. However, of the 189 chemicals recognized by the EPA as air pollutants, 97 (that’s a little over half) are VOCs.

Common VOCs that Affect Indoor Air Quality

Examples of VOCs commonly found in indoor air include:

• gasoline
• formaldehyde, which is used as a preservative in food, medicine, cleaning products, and cosmetics, as well as in the production of furniture
• benzene, which is used in the production of plastics, resins, dyes, synthetic fabrics, and many more household items
• methylene chloride, which is primarily used in industrial cleaning and paint removal
• ethylene glycol, which is used in the manufacturing of synthetic fabrics and in antifreeze products
• tetrachloroethylene, which is the chemical used for dry cleaning
• toluene, which is used in the production of paints, lacquers, and glues

Camfil Air Filtration Experts Answer Frequently Asked Questions About VOCs

What are the symptoms of VOC exposure?

Short-term exposure to VOCs can result in symptoms including:

• headaches
• skin irritation and itchiness
• dizziness
• nausea
• fatigue
• watering or burning eyes
• nose and throat irritation
• asthma attacks

What are the long-term health effects of VOC exposure?

According to the EPA VOC exposure can exacerbate asthma symptoms and lead to chronic bronchitis, and may also lead to kidney, liver, and nervous system damage depending on the specific chemicals and individual is exposed to. Several VOCs have also been linked to the development of various types of cancer.

Do VOCs negatively affect the environment?

Certain VOCs (such as the 97 that the EPA classifies as pollutants) can pose significant risks to the environment. VOCs react with nitrogen oxides in the atmosphere to form ground-level ozone and smog, an issue that can affect rural and urban areas alike. Ground-level ozone stops plants from being able to open their pores and absorb carbon dioxide, essentially inhibiting their respiratory function, which can cause damage to and even kill plants. This has a significant negative impact on crops and on entire natural ecosystems.  

Ground-level ozone is also considered a greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change.

How can I measure VOC levels in my facility?

There are various monitors that can be used to measure VOC levels inside buildings, and the best fit depends on the specifics of your building. Explore VOC monitoring options here or reach out to your local Camfil representative to determine the right solution for your application. 

What kinds of air filters can get rid of VOCs?

Although there are thousands of different kinds of VOCs, many of which are benign and naturally occurring, while others are potentially dangerous, most can be targeted by one type of filter because they are all gasses. Filters containing activated carbon and other activated media are effective against molecular (gaseous) pollutants.

Regular maintenance and replacement of filters are essential for optimal performance. By investing in high-quality air filtration systems, facility managers can significantly reduce VOC levels, creating safer and more pleasant environments.

Can I use a HEPA filter to remove VOCs from the air?

No. HEPA filters are highly effective against particulate matter (microscopic solid or liquid particles suspended in the air) but are not designed to capture gases. To target both types of pollution, you may need an air cleaner or purifier or multi-stage filtration.

What emits VOCs indoors?

Concentrations of VOCs can often be significantly higher indoors than outdoors because outdoor air provides natural circulation to disperse pollutants, and because many indoor activities and objects generate VOCs. These include:

• Using cleaning chemicals
• Painting, or using glue or some kind of ink
• Printers and copying machines
• Aerosol sprays
• Off-gassing from furniture

Are air filters the only way to reduce VOC levels indoors?

It is possible to reduce VOC levels by reducing indoor emissions and by improving ventilation and air circulation. Using these two strategies in combination with activated carbon filters is highly effective. Other strategies, such as using indoor plants to combat VOCs, are not as effective; although certain plants can remove small amounts of specific VOCs from the air, they cannot do so quickly enough to keep up with VOC emissions in most indoor spaces. Consult a Camfil expert for help developing the best strategy to reduce VOCs in your building.

About Camfil Clean Air Solutions

For more than half a century, Camfil has been helping people breathe cleaner air. As a leading manufacturer of premium clean air solutions, we provide commercial and industrial systems for air filtration and air pollution control that improve worker and equipment productivity, minimize energy use, and benefit human health and the environment. We firmly believe that the best solutions for our customers are the best solutions for our planet, too. That’s why every step of the way – from design to delivery and across the product life cycle – we consider the impact of what we do on people and on the world around us. Through a fresh approach to problem-solving, innovative design, precise process control, and a strong customer focus we aim to conserve more, use less and find better ways – so we can all breathe easier.

The Camfil Group is headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden, and has 30​ manufacturing sites, six R&D centers, local sales offices in 35+ countries, and about 5,600 employees and growing. We proudly serve and support customers in a wide variety of industries and in communities across the world. To discover how Camfil USA can help you to protect people, processes and the environment, visit us at www.camfil.us/ 

##

Media Contact: 

Lynne Laake 

Camfil USA Air Filters 

T: 888.599.6620 

E: Lynne.Laake@camfil.com

F: Friend Camfil USA on Facebook

T: Follow Camfil USA on Twitter 

Y: Watch Camfil Videos on YouTube

L: Follow our LinkedIn Page

 

Sources:

https://www.epa.gov/haps/initial-list-hazardous-air-pollutants-modifications

https://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq/volatile-organic-compounds-impact-indoor-air-quality

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