indoor air

We spend more than 80% of our time indoors.

With the constant improvement in the efficiency of insulation systems, it has become essential to renew the air regularly in order to prevent pollutants from stagnating in our buildings.

Indoor air refers to any air in covered structures (offices, public institutions, private homes, etc.) that is not exposed to occupational hazards.

forme jaune avec Tom la mascotte de Quad-lab avec un masque à gaz

What pollutants are found in indoor air?

Aldehydes, including formaldehyde, found in 100% of homes and offices;
monocyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (HAM), including benzene (carcinogenic), found in most furniture, construction and decoration products;
chlorinated solvents such as tetrachloroethylene, often released from carpets, dry-cleaned clothing or carpets);
terpenes, including limonene and alpha-pinene, contained in deodorants, cleaning products and fragrances;
acetates, such as butyl acetate, found in paints and parquet flooring.

Health consequences:

Indoor air pollution can cause allergic reactions (rhinitis, conjunctivitis, etc.)
or respiratory symptoms (exacerbation of asthma, etc.).
There may be short-term consequences, such as carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning,
which, in the most severe cases, can cause death within a few tens of minutes.
In addition, there are long-term repercussions, with the onset or worsening of heart or respiratory diseases.

What is the difference between an IAQ (indoor air quality) sensor and a laboratory test?

Consumer IAQ sensors provide trend indicators (CO₂, temperature, humidity).
A laboratory test is based on:
• standardised sampling,
• laboratory analysis,
• precise identification of pollutants,
• expert interpretation of results.

The laboratory provides reliable, enforceable, and actionable results for decision-making.

Which pollutants are analysed during an indoor air quality (IAQ) check?

Depending on the issues at stake on the site, IAQ control may include:
• volatile organic compounds (VOCs),
• formaldehyde and benzene,
• fine particles (PM2.5, PM10, dust),
• bacterial flora and mould,
• carbon dioxide (CO₂),
• ozone,
• temperature, relative humidity and air velocity.

Is indoor air quality (IAQ) monitoring mandatory for public buildings?

Indoor air quality monitoring is mandatory in certain establishments that cater to vulnerable groups, such as nurseries.
Beyond these obligations, it is still strongly recommended, particularly in the event of complaints from occupants, renovation work, environmental certification or suspected indoor pollution.

What is the purpose of indoor air quality analysis in HQE, BREEAM, LEED, WELL or Osmoz certifications?

Indoor air quality analysis makes it possible to verify that the health requirements of certifications are actually being met. It is used to measure pollutants, validate the achievement of IAQ targets upon building acceptance, and monitor performance during operation. The analyses provide objective results to prevent deviations related to building use or ageing.

What to do in the event of unpleasant odours in a building?

An odour diagnosis can be carried out, combining chemical and microbiological analyses and, if necessary, an olfactory assessment.
The aim is to characterise the odour, assess the health risks and provide objective information for communication and management of the situation.

Why use an independent laboratory for IAQ testing?

A specialised laboratory guarantees:
• standardised measurement methods,
• reliable and enforceable results,
• scientific interpretation of data,
• support tailored to health and regulatory issues in the building sector.

Quad-Lab is Cofrac accredited on formaldehyde and benzene.
The scope of accreditation can be found on www.cofrac.fr under the accreditation reference N° 1-1578.

Indoor Air Quality Observatory (OQAI)

For more information on indoor air issues
Indoor Air Guide (IAV) Values on the ANSES