CO₂ – The Silent Productivity Killer
One of the key indicators of air quality in indoor spaces is the level of CO₂. Outside air typically has around 400 ppm (parts per million) of CO₂. However, in poorly ventilated spaces, CO₂ levels can increase rapidly due to human exhalation, leading to discomfort and a noticeable decline in concentration. According to the German Federal Environment Agency (UBA), ventilation should be intensified once CO₂ levels reach 1,000 ppm. Once the concentration hits 2,000 ppm, the air quality is deemed “unacceptably unhealthy.” The effects of elevated CO₂ include headaches, fatigue, and reduced focus. Therefore, ensuring adequate air exchange is crucial to keeping CO₂ levels in check and maintaining a productive working environment.
In many cases, workers do not realize when air quality has declined until someone points out that the air is "stale." Mechanical ventilation (HVAC) systems offer an efficient solution, providing continuous, independent air exchange. By using modern systems with CO₂ sensors, ventilation can be adjusted in real-time, ensuring the optimal air quality for workers and fostering a more productive and comfortable workplace.
Air Filtration – Guarding Against Harmful Particles
In addition to CO₂, indoor air often contains a variety of pollutants that can negatively affect health. Fine dust, pollen, smoke, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and even viruses can all be present in the air. Filtration systems are used to remove these particles, with different types designed to target specific pollutants. Mechanical filters, typically used in offices and residential spaces, are effective at removing dust and dirt particles. Absorption filters, often utilizing activated carbon, are particularly good at neutralizing odors and gases and are commonly used in environments with high levels of pollution. In industrial settings, electrostatic filters are also employed to remove dust and smoke particles from the air.
A particularly crucial filter type in sensitive environments such as hospitals or food industries are photocatalytic filters, which utilize UV light to neutralize bacteria and viruses. In larger industrial spaces, multiple filter types are often used in combination to maximize the removal of pollutants and, where necessary, deactivate harmful germs.
Ventilation Systems – Ensuring Optimal Indoor Climate
HVAC systems play a vital role in providing a healthy indoor climate by removing harmful substances from the air and ensuring consistent airflow. These systems are now considered indispensable, as they maintain air quality by minimizing the presence of pollutants, filtering pollen and dust from incoming air, and combating dry air in winter by adding moisture. Beyond health benefits, HVAC systems also contribute to enhanced productivity and focus while saving energy through heat recovery systems.
Impact on Materials and Building Integrity
Indoor air quality doesn't only affect the people within the space, it also has a direct influence on the materials and structure of a building. Excessive humidity can cause materials like paper to warp and can promote mold growth, damaging the fabric of the building. Conversely, low humidity can cause building materials to dry out, leading to cracks in wood and other materials. Furthermore, VOCs and other pollutants can contribute to the corrosion and discoloration of metals, which can be particularly problematic in industries where materials play a significant role.
This is why investing in HVAC systems is beneficial not only from a health perspective but also from an economic and energy-efficiency standpoint. These systems not only protect employees' well-being but also help preserve the longevity of materials and the building structure. "HVAC systems should be a standard feature in every indoor workplace as they automatically ensure the necessary air exchange," explains Frank Ernst, Managing Director of the German Association of Building Climate (FGK). "By providing filtered, pre-warmed outside air on demand, they contribute to a healthier and more comfortable indoor environment. Modern heat and sound-insulating windows can perform optimally without the need for manual opening, making HVAC systems particularly effective. Ideally, these systems should be planned from the outset in new buildings or major renovations. For retrofitting existing buildings, individual room systems are an excellent option, requiring minimal space and only a few openings in the exterior wall for installation."
During planning and installation, it is important to consider all relevant building and usage-specific data. Specialist planners can help identify the most effective solution for each scenario. Opting not to install HVAC systems is certainly the least favorable choice, considering the health, performance, and energy-efficiency aspects.
Optimizing Indoor Air Quality: Latest Solutions at ISH 2025
The quality of indoor air plays a significant role in the health, comfort, and productivity of employees. At ISH 2025, taking place from March 17 to 21 in Frankfurt, leading manufacturers and innovators in the field of "Indoor Air Quality Solutions" will showcase the latest technologies for maintaining optimal air quality in various types of buildings. These innovations set new standards in efficiency, comfort, and sustainability, with applications in residential and non-residential buildings, production facilities, data centers, retail spaces, as well as educational and healthcare environments.
