Research at the Air Pollution Health Effects Laboratory at the University of California at Irvine indicates that children are six times more vulnerable to indoor air contaminants than adults due to faster respiration rates and lower body weights. Recognizing and managing indoor air quality problems is an important part of providing a healthy and safe school that optimizes student learning. This publication is an introduction to the causes and effects of poor indoor air quality and provides information for reducing exposure to indoor contaminants in schools. Here is an overview of indoor pollutants, where they are found in schools, and their health effects on school occupants. Dust is made up of particles generated from dirt, pollen, pet dander, and lead-based paint and from burning oil, coal, and wood emissions.
Asbestos is a natural fiber that is a good insulator and is fire and corrosion resistant.
Breathing dust and fibers can cause shortness of breath, chest pain, fatigue, weakness, and headaches. Exposure to lead dust can cause damage to the nervous system, high blood pressure, anemia, stunted growth, learning difficulties, behavior problems, and short-term memory loss. Inhaling particles released when asbestos products are disturbed can cause lung infection and cancer. Pesticides such as acaricide are used against mites, herbicides prevent weeds, insecticides eliminate insects, and rodenticides are used against mice and rats. Deodorizers and disinfectants contain phenol, formaldehyde, cresol, glycols, methylene chloride, and dichloro- benzene.