Whether a building is new or old they pose IAQ risk if appropriate measures are not taken. New or newly renovated buildings usually have new furniture, new wall painting etc. New furniture or painting often emit chemicals (e.g. formaldehyde)
Formaldehyde for example is the most common indoor air pollutant and is used in the binding elements in plywood, particleboard, and medium density fibreboard. These products are used in everything from basic walls to cabinetry, bookcases, furniture, and flooring. Health effects of formaldehyde include eye, nose, and throat irritation; wheezing and coughing; fatigue; skin rash; severe allergic reactions. It may also cause cancer. Indoor air pollutant exposure may be especially hazardous to young infants, old or people with impaired immune system. The health effects from indoor pollutants depend on the length and level of exposure (chronic vs. acute) and on individual sensitivity.
Singapore National Environment Agency recommends that the maximum threshold level for formaldehyde should not exceed 0.1ppm, based on "Guidelines for Good Indoor Air Quality in Office Premises".
For more information on Indoor Air Quality and Formaldehyde, please visit http://www.iaqsg.com and http://www.iaqsg.com/
Need Professional Assistance?
Please feel free to contact Mr Charn @ Tel: 6241 9443/ Hp: 9321 9321, Mr. Moshood Hp: 93225506 or email mof@iaqsg.com if you are interested in having your indoor air tested or audited to monitor the Indoor Air Quality in your environment.
