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FEATURE FOCUS: SCHOOL MAINTENANCE & DESIGN
Restoring the balance: energy saving vs indoor air quality in schools
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n our first of four feature articles this month looking at the closely related areas
of school maintenance and design, Alan Macklin and Ana Cross at Elta Group discuss how schools must re-assess energy saving priorities and introduce quality-designed mechanical ventilation systems into these crucial buildings, and explain why good indoor air quality is a key pillar not just for better learning, but also general wellbeing.
With the effects of the pandemic placing greater emphasis on ventilation, the high levels of CO2 across school building stock have become a prevalent concern. Yet, at the same time, saving energy remains a top priority in line with sustainability agendas. With these two matters in mind, schools have
historically relied on natural ventilation methods such as opening windows to maintain low energy usage. However, this approach does not guarantee good quality air. Many schools are located in suburban or heavily urbanised areas where a high count of nitrogen dioxide is in the air, along with harmful particulates such as car brake pad dust, fumes, sulphur dioxide and other pollutants. While conserving energy is important, this
should not take precedence over peoples’ wellbeing – especially as younger individuals are more vulnerable. Furthermore, numerous
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scientific studies have highlighted that CO2 and harmful particulates directly hinder pupil’s learning and concentration. Coinciding with the introduction of the school
rebuilding programme, now is the time for indoor air quality to be treated with greater importance through adequate ventilation.
The legislative landscape While the Building Bulletin (BB101) is in place as a framework for ensuring effective ventilation, upcoming changes to Building Regulations reflect the growing concerns around management of indoor air quality. With updates to Part F coming into force later this year, there will be firmer guidance to adhere to. Namely that buildings must provide sufficient ventilation to keep CO2 levels below 800ppm (parts per million). The introduction of these regulatory measures
highlights the need for measuring and controlling CO2 as part of ventilation strategy – placing further onus on schools to implement appropriate solutions.
Clearing the air Alongside acknowledgement of regulatory guidance, there must also be an understanding of what good quality or ‘fresh’ air is. As outlined, good quality air isn’t simply air brought in from the outside. Many harmful compounds can be present that affect both health and concentration
June 2022
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