Studies have found a significant correlation between indoor air quality and health symptoms related to ventilation and CO2; with findings indicating that inadequate air quality in classrooms increase the risk of asthma and other respirable diseases amongst children.
With Australians spending 90% of their time indoors, mostly in public places such as workplaces, schools, hospitality venues, and shopping centres, adopting strategies to improve air quality within low ventilation areas is crucial in making these spaces safer for staff, children and their families.
Rentokil Initial National Technical and Innovation Manager, John Keogh, said the COVID-19 pandemic has increased awareness around the importance of proper ventilation.
“We are facing the worst indoor air quality crisis in history. It has never been clearer that businesses, such as schools and childcare operators, need to take action against the well-documented risks of poor indoor air quality,” Mr Keogh said.
To help tackle these issues, the Victorian Government has introduced a $5,000 grant program for eligible small businesses to purchase a range of equipment to improve ventilation.
“This grant can help small businesses in Victoria access the latest technology and innovation in air quality solutions to reduce risk and to minimise the spread of the airborne illnesses,” Mr Keogh said.
“Whilst access to natural ventilation like opening windows is also an alternative to air ventilation it is not always practical - especially during the colder seasons or in denser urban areas where outside noise and pollution can heavily impact indoor air quality and the working environment.
“Air purifiers play a critical role in high-risk environments, like classrooms, in reducing the spread of COVID-19 and reducing the sickness cycle.”
Alongside adequate ventilation, Rentokil Initial recommends a 360 degree hygiene approach by businesses to reduce the risk of transmission of potentially harmful pathogens and viruses – including a hand, surface and air hygiene protocol.
For more information, visit Initial Hygiene, or call 1300 059 972 to learn about indoor air quality solutions for your business and how to utilise the government funding.
Click here to learn more about the $5K government grant available. Applications close this Friday, 24 June 2022.
