ASSESSMENT OF INDOOR PARTICULATE MATTER CONCENTRATION IN OFFICES: IMPACTS OF OCCUPANCY AND OUTDOOR PARTICULATES

Abstract

Exposure to indoor particulates has been linked to serious health problems. This research aimed to measure the mass concentration of inhalable particles in four offices experimentally, focusing on three airborne particle sizes (PM1, PM2.5, and PM10) during occupancy and non-occupancy periods at the Qassim University Campus, KSA. Results revealed that most activities in the offices significantly affected PM10 and PM2.5, but not PM1, except for vacuuming. Outdoor particles had a significant impact on indoor air quality, especially for PM1 and PM2.5 size fractions. The study concludes that the concentration level of particle fractions (PM10 and PM2.5) during occupancy periods does not satisfy the air quality standards. This study sheds light on the importance of assessing indoor air quality in offices, given the impact on productivity and human health, especially among the elderly, people with heart and/or lung diseases, children, and women. The study also emphasizes the significance of outdoor particulates on indoor air quality and the urgent need to improve office environmental parameters to enhance productivity and limit health risks related to insufficient fresh air.