Over the years, different approaches and indices have been used to define indoor air quality. The most frequently used, recognised by the public, and equated with indoor air quality are, of course, ventilation rate and concentration of carbon dioxide. Other approaches define the levels of dissatisfaction with acceptability of indoor air quality, as expressed by the building occupants. At some point in time, the total concentration of airborne volatile organic compounds was proposed, as well. With the increasing accessibility and miniaturisation of sensors, and with improved analytical methods, it is again becoming popular to measure concentrations of individual airborne pollutants and total concentration of groups of airborne pollutants and use them as the index of indoor air quality. Yet, a few principal questions remain pending and the debate is ongoing as to what the premise should be for defining indoor air quality, which outcome/modality should be used for that purpose, and whether we can agree on a simple metric. It could be that such single metric does not exist at all. Therefore, other approaches and schemes need to be considered and examined to ensure that indoor air does not compromise the basic human requirements, which include high quality of life, good health and optimal physical and mental activity.

In this webinar, Pawel Wargocki - associate professor at the International Centre for Indoor Environment and Energy, DTU Civil Engineering, Technical University of Denmark- briefly reviewed indices used to define indoor air quality, and discusses their strength, weaknesses and applicability as a metric for indoor air quality. Strategy for achieving high indoor air quality is proposed with the necessary research to support it.

For more information please download the flyer, slides and recordings (relevant links provided below).