Children exposure to PM2.5 in kindergarten classrooms equipped with air purifiers - a pilot study

Abstract

Children exposure to PM2.5 is associated with several negative health effects. Particulate air pollution in the ambient and indoor air could lead to exacerbation of respiratory diseases and even influence cognitive function in children. One of the methods to improve indoor air quality is to use electronic air purifiers. Such an equipment is still not commonly used in Polish kindergartens and homes. The aim of the study was to assess changes in children exposure to particulate air pollution in kindergarten classrooms due to the occurrence of air purifier. Automatic PM2.5 concentration monitors were used to assess the air quality changes in the indoor and ambient air. As it was a pilot study, four kindergartens in Warsaw has been chosen as research fields. Concentration measurements were conducted in cold season. In each kindergarten measurements of the PM2.5 concentration were made in two classrooms - one with air purifier switched on and the other one without air purification. Changes in air quality were observed due to opening windows and the presence of the children. Air quality in classrooms with air purification was on average almost 40%-50% better than in those without any procedures to decrease air pollutants concentration.