The places where we live, learn, and work are built with a variety of construction materials,many of which release chemical substances that can significantly affect indoor air quality.Even in older buildings, harmful chemicalslike those associated with “sick building syndrome”continue to be released over time.
The places where we live, learn, and workare built with a variety of construction materials,many of which release chemical substancesthat can significantly affect indoor air quality.Even in older buildings,harmful chemicals like those associated with“sick building syndrome”continue to be released over time.
Causes of Indoor Air Pollution
The way we live
can also influence indoor air quality.
The more people move through a space,
the higher the indoor carbon dioxide levels tend to be.
Cooking, in particular, can release nitrogen dioxide
and fine dust, which significantly affect indoor air quality levels.
Types of Indoor Pollutants
Fine Dust01
Fine Dust01
Dust particles of 10 micrometers (µm) or less that are invisible to the naked eye.
Can impair lung function and weaken the immune system.
Formaldehyde(HCHO)02
Formaldehyde(HCHO)02
Commonly found in materials used in buildings.
Can cause eye, nose, throat, and skin irritation; coughing; diarrhea; dizziness; and nausea.
Carbon Dioxide(CO₂)03
Carbon Dioxide(CO₂)03
Produced when living organisms breathe or ferment and makes up about 0.04% of dry air.
Non-toxic, but high exposure can lead to headaches, dizziness, and even death.
Radon(RN)04
Radon(RN)04
A radioactive gas found in soil and groundwater. Known to cause lung cancer as an indoor air pollutant.
Volatile Organic Compounds(VOCs)05
Volatile Organic Compounds(VOCs)05
Commonly found in pesticides and construction/cleaning materials. (Toluene, Benzene, Etylbenzene)
Can cause breathing issues, headaches, vomiting, or blood disorders if inhaled or absorbed through the skin.
The Highest Fine Dust Levels Among Major OECD Countries
*Source: OECD, “Environmental Risks and Health” / e-Nara Indicators, 2023
Effects of Carbon Dioxide (CO₂)
*Units: ㎍/m³, days
The Importance of Indoor Air Quality Management
Why Indoor Air Quality Management Is Crucial
The Importance of Indoor Air Quality Management
Why Indoor Air Quality
Management Is Crucial
Indoor air can be up to five times more polluted than outdoor air,and the likelihood of this polluted air reaching the lungsis about 1,000 times higher compared to outdoor exposure.Since modern people spend more than 90% of their time indoors,managing indoor air quality is no longer optional.
Indoor air can be up to five timesmore polluted than outdoor air,and the likelihood of this polluted airreaching the lungs is about1,000 times higher comparedto outdoor exposure.Since modern people spend more than 90%of their time indoors,managing indoor air qualityis no longer optional.
Organizations such as the WHO,
the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the United Nations are adopting declarations warning about the seriousness and health risks of indoor air pollution,
and affirming the right to healthy indoor air