Indoor air quality (IAQ) is about how healthy the air is inside a building. It’s one of the most important aspects of a healthy school since we all share the air, and it has a huge impact on learning. Many activities affect IAQ in schools. Some are sources of indoor air pollution, such as using air fresheners and 3D printers. Others can improve IAQ, like bringing in fresh, unpolluted air through windows that open and well-maintained ventilation systems. Children breathe proportionately more air than adults, so it’s especially important to have good IAQ in schools.
Check out the following resources to learn more.
Indoor Air Quality Resources
Creating Healthy Indoor Air Quality in Schools, U.S. EPA
Packed with information including the IAQ Tools for Schools program and three free on-demand webinar series.
https://www.epa.gov/iaq-schools
Introduction to Indoor Air Quality, U.S. EPA
https://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq/introduction-indoor-air-quality
U.S. EPA, Student Health and Academic Achievement Quick Reference Guide
The positive impact good IAQ has on learning, including improved test scores and reduced absenteeism.
https://www.epa.gov/sites/default/files/2014-08/documents/student_performance_findings.pdf
Indoor Air Quality in Schools, Minnesota Department of Health
https://www.health.state.mn.us/communities/environment/air/schools/index.html
Healthy Air Quality in Schools, Washington State Department of Health
https://doh.wa.gov/community-and-environment/schools/environmental-health/air-quality
Clean Air at School, American Lung Association
https://www.lung.org/clean-air/at-school
Essential Oils, Guidance for Healthy Classrooms, Washington State Department of Health
https://doh.wa.gov/sites/default/files/2022-10/333-307.pdf?uid=642fd2b33a582
Controlling Pollutants and Sources: Indoor Air Quality Design Tools for Schools, U.S. EPA
How to protect IAQ during renovations and new construction. Includes a table of typical sources of indoor air pollution in schools, including dry erase markers, personal care products, art and science supplies, copiers and printers, cleaning products, furnishings, and more.
https://www.epa.gov/iaq-schools/controlling-pollutants-and-sources-indoor-air-quality-design-tools-schools
Wyoming Healthy Schools 