The air in your home could be polluted and doing you harm

You wouldn’t think so, but air pollution can create havoc for us indoors as much as it can outdoors.

Australians on average spend 90 per cent or more of their time inside – whether that be in homes, classrooms, offices, restaurants, cars or recreational buildings.  In winter, doors and windows are shut to block out the cold and on scorching hot summer days, either the aircon is turned on for a more ideal, bearable temperature or windows and doors are open and fans are spinning fast.

“Sick building syndrome” was a term coined in America in the 1980s when it dawned on people that the poor quality of indoor air was causing them headaches, sore throats and lethargic reactions.

Although levels of pollutants in houses is quite low in Australia, they do fluctuate over time and it is important to be mindful of this.

In Brisbane’s humid climate, especially during summer, mould can easily grow in homes. Humid air enters through open windows and creates moist environments on wood. Fungal spores thrive in these conditions so it is important to stop fungal growth before it takes over.

Turning on the air-conditioner when it is humid is a great way to prevent fungal growth. Ventilation and silica gel pouches are also recommended. Be careful of chemical methods as these can be pollutant.

Smoking inside is a big no-no, not just for your health. Smoking introduces a lot of particles and carbon monoxide into the air, accruing into soft furnishings and slowly releasing back into the air over time. If smoking is conducted inside, it is important to open windows and doors regularly to ventilate the space.

Remember when cleaning small spaces with chemical products, such as bathrooms, open windows and turn on fans to ventilate the air.

Unlike outdoor air pollution, the effect of indoor air pollution is health related and less of an environmental issue. Common health problems that result from exposure to poor indoor air quality include skin irritation, hypersensitivity and odour and taste symptoms.

It is hard to regulate the air quality in work offices and recreational buildings, but reducing indoor pollution in your home will create a more comfortable, healthier living space for all.