When we think of breathable air, we believe that the concept is limited to a mixture of nitrogen and oxygen. But did you know that air is never 100% pure?
Many other elements can be present in the breathable air in your work environment, and to avoid being impacted by it, you have to be prepared.
First of all, what is breathable air?
Taking care of the air we breathe must be a priority for all workers, regardless of their activity sector. Any work environment carries risks of contamination, whether it is inside or outside a building.
Being well protected also means knowing what you're facing.
To what could you be exposed?
Many elements harmful to continuous breathing can be found in the ambient air of your work environment. You might think that air is only problematic when an external contaminant is present, but did you know that you may need to call in specialists because of low oxygen levels?
Exposure to air contaminants can occur through particulate matter caused by elements that may sometimes seem ordinary.
When you are indoors, try to keep an eye out for the condition of items such as
- Gas
- Vapors from household products
- Pesticides
- Varnish
- Glues
- Vapors and ozone from electrical appliances such as fans, heaters or photocopiers
Health and Safety Tip:
Make sure floors are cleaned at least once a week. As for carpeted floors, be aware that they tend to absorb a lot of dust and that occasional washing can only benefit air quality.
The installation of absorbent mats at the building's doors also helps reduce dust from entering the facility.
When you are outside, take into account these elements that can contaminate the ambient air:
- Dust
- Sand
- Smoke
- Gas
How can you improve the breathing air in your company?
To avoid facing respiratory health problems, it is possible to evaluate the work environment in question.
SPI can evaluate your company's breathing air quality through its occupational health experts, who will analyze the site on several levels.
What can our specialists measure?
- Temperature;
- Relative humidity;
- Carbon monoxide;
- Carbon dioxide;
- Respirable dust particles;
- Biological contaminants in the air;
- Pressure gradient;
- Air velocity and flow;
- Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs).
Also, SPI can help you determine, if required, the type of respiratory protection mask that is appropriate and suitable for your workplace.
You can ask our experts for advice and questions today by clicking here!
