Journal of Wellbeing Management and Applied Psychology (웰빙융합연구)

Korea Wellbeing Convergence Association (한국웰빙융합학회)
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Indoor Air Quality Analysis and Improvement in Universities

  • Jun-young PARK (Department of Environment Health & Safety, Eulji University) ;
  • Won-mo GAL (Department of Environmental Health & Safety, Eulji University) ;
  • Gyeong-eun BAE (Department of Environment Health & Safety, Eulji University) ;
  • Seung-yun HAN (Department of Environment Health & Safety, Eulji University) ;
  • In-seo KANG (Department of Environment Health & Safety, Eulji University) ;
  • Woo-sik LEE (Department of Health Care Management, Catholic Kwandong University) ;
  • Woo-Taeg KWON (Department of Environmental Health & Safety, Eulji University)
  • Received : 2024.11.30
  • Accepted : 2024.12.22
  • Published : 2024.12.30
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Abstract

Purpose: Students spend long hours studying and living in school environments, making indoor air quality (IAQ) in school buildings a critical factor directly affecting their health and learning performance. This study aimed to assess the current status of IAQ in school buildings and analyze the effects of per capita occupancy volume, ventilation methods, and spatial characteristics on IAQ to propose improvement strategies. Measurements of particulate matter (PM10, PM2.5), carbon dioxide (CO2), and total volatile organic compounds (TVOCs) were conducted in six locations, including classrooms and public spaces. The measured levels were compared to IAQ maintenance and recommended standards. Results indicated that particulate matter and TVOCs were within recommended levels across all locations. However, CO2 exceeded recommended standards in classrooms with smaller per capita occupancy volumes, especially in enclosed classrooms relying solely on mechanical ventilation. Conversely, spaces incorporating natural ventilation showed relatively lower CO2 concentrations. This study empirically analyzed various factors affecting IAQ in schools and provides practical recommendations for improvement, such as enhancing ventilation systems, utilizing air-purifying plants, and installing CO2 sensors. These findings are expected to contribute to the establishment of effective IAQ management policies and the creation of healthier learning environments.

Keywords

Acknowledgement

This research was supported by 2024 eulji university Innovation Support Project great funded.

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