Could poor ventilation cause our symptoms?« Back to Previous Page
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After the heavy dust storm a few weeks ago, I noticed an unusual musty odor in our newly renovated store on Jumeirah Beach Road. My colleagues and I have been experiencing frequent coughing fits and itchy eyes since then. Is there any chance this could be related to poor ventilation or cleaning practices?
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Could Poor Ventilation Cause Our Symptoms?
Absolutely. In our region, the climate and recent weather conditions can indeed contribute to poor indoor air quality. Following that heavy dust storm a few weeks ago, it's quite possible that your symptoms might be linked to the aftermath of the event. The dust storm could have introduced particulate matter into the air which, when combined with inadequate ventilation in your newly renovated store on Jumeirah Beach Road, can cause issues. In Dubai and UAE, there are specific regulations about indoor environment quality (IEQ) as per the building code and standards set by the Department of Municipal Affairs & Urban Planning (DM&UP). Proper ventilation is crucial to maintain a healthy environment. The DM&UP guidelines recommend that stores have at least 5 air changes per hour for new construction, which might not be met if your store was recently renovated. Ventilation issues can lead to an accumulation of pollutants like dust, mold spores, and chemicals from cleaning products, all of which could contribute to the musty odor and your symptoms. Poor ventilation also allows humidity levels to rise, creating a perfect environment for mold growth. Mold is a common allergen that can trigger coughing fits and itchy eyes. To address this situation proactively, I highly recommend reaching out to professional environmental inspection services like ours at 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com. They can perform an assessment to identify the source of your symptoms and provide recommendations for remediation. In the meantime, you might want to increase natural ventilation by opening windows when weather permits. Use high-efficiency air purifiers with HEPA filters to help clean the indoor air. Ensure that cleaning products used are low in volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and follow manufacturer’s guidelines for their use to avoid introducing more irritants. Remember, maintaining good indoor air quality is not just about your comfort but also your health. Let's work together to ensure a safe and healthy environment in your store. |
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