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KMID : 0361020200630100458
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Korean Journal of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery
2020 Volume.63 No. 10 p.458 ~ p.462
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Assessment of Indoor Air Quality in Otorhinolaryngology Clinics
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Lee Kang-Hyun
Kim Dong-Kyu
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Abstract
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Background and Objectives: Otorhinolaryngology clinics are frequently exposed to various air pollutants. This can have a potentially harmful effect on the health of the healthcare personnel. However, there is still a lack of studies on the assessment of indoor air quality in otorhinolaryngology clinics. Therefore, this study aimed to measure indoor air quality in otorhinolaryngology clinics.
Subjects and Method: In this study, we prospectively measured indoor air quality indices [particulate matter (PM), carbon dioxide (CO2), total volatile organic compounds (VOCs), PM2.5, Nitrogen dioxide (NO2), carbon monoxide (CO), and ozone] using portable passive air quality monitoring sensors in otorhinolaryngology clinics.
Results: The mean concentrations of PM, CO2, VOCs, and NO2 were significantly higher during office hours than after; however, there was no significant differences in CO and ozone concentration between the two time periods. The proportions of tolerable to poor-quality (exceeding acceptable level) levels of CO2, total VOCs, NO2 was 25%, 25%, 12.5% during office hours, respectively. On the other hand, there was no proportion of tolerable to poor-quality level of PM, CO, ozone during office hours.
Conclusion: We found that otorhinolaryngology clinics are easily exposed to ambient indoor air pollution. Therefore, we suggest implement health-related protective strategies for ambient indoor air pollution in otorhinolaryngology clinics may be needed for healthcare personnel.
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KEYWORD
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Air pollution, Carbon dioxide, Indoor air quality, Nitrogen dioxide, Particulate matter, Volatile organic compounds
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