Particle Measurement
Particle measurement is an important part of monitoring indoor air quality, especially in buildings where people spend long periods of time. Particles in the air can come from several sources, such as building materials, furniture, emissions from electronics, and outdoor air that brings in pollutants. These particles can affect health and well-being and should therefore be measured regularly in certain environments. Here are some examples of where particle measurement is used and why it is important:
Examples of Particle Measurement in Buildings:
Hospitals and healthcare facilities. In hospitals, it is important to keep particle levels low to minimize the risk of infections and the spread of bacteria. Operating rooms and clean rooms are often monitored with particle counters to ensure that the air is as clean as possible, which is crucial for patient health and safety.
Office buildings and workplaces. In office environments, particle measurement can be used to monitor air quality and reduce the risk of health issues such as allergies and respiratory irritations. Particles can come from dust, printing ink, textiles, and electronics, which can affect employee comfort and productivity.
Schools and preschools. Particle measurement in schools and preschools is important because children are particularly sensitive to pollutants. Particles from outdoor air, building materials, and furniture can affect children's health and concentration. By measuring particle levels, schools and preschools can ensure that indoor air quality is good.
Industrial premises and factories. In factories where chemicals and dust are common, particle levels are monitored to reduce work-related health risks. High levels of airborne particles can lead to respiratory problems, irritations, and in some cases serious illnesses if exposure is prolonged.
Homes near busy roads. Particle measurement in homes is particularly relevant in areas with heavy traffic or near industries where high levels of small particles from exhaust and industrial emissions can infiltrate the building. These particles, often referred to as PM2.5 (particles smaller than 2.5 micrometers), can be harmful to health and should be kept at low levels.
Warehouses and storage spaces for sensitive goods. Some warehouses need to control particle levels to protect sensitive goods, such as electronics, pharmaceuticals, or food. Particles in the air can affect the quality and shelf life of products, so particle measurement is crucial for keeping goods in good condition.
How is particle measurement performed?
Particle measurement is done using the following techniques and instruments:
Particle counters. A particle counter measures the concentration and size of particles in the air. These can be stationary or portable and are used to monitor both small (PM2.5) and larger particles (PM10) depending on what is relevant in the environment.
Air quality sensors. Some buildings use systems with air quality sensors that measure multiple parameters simultaneously, such as particle levels, carbon dioxide, and VOCs.
Air sampling and laboratory analysis. If necessary, air samples can be collected and analyzed in laboratories to accurately determine which particles are present and their source. This is often used in more critical environments such as hospitals and clean rooms.
Particle levels in your area
To keep track of particle levels in your area, Enkey recommends following this on the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency's website