Zhang, Shuo; (2024) Understanding drivers of indoor air quality performance in London's nurseries. Doctoral thesis (Ph.D), UCL (University College London).

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Abstract

Background: Beyond their homes, children spend most of their time in schools, making it crucial to ensure good air quality in these environments. Compared to other educational settings, nurseries often report poorer indoor air quality (IAQ), which poses significant health risks to young children. Poor IAQ in nurseries can lead to respiratory issues, allergies, and developmental problems in children, thus necessitating a comprehensive understanding and improvement of IAQ in these settings. The aim of this thesis is to understand the drivers of IAQ in London nurseries during the Covid-19 period, with the following objectives: 1) evaluate the IAQ performance in nurseries; 2) assess the impact of air purifiers and window operations on IAQ; 3) explore the dynamic nature of indoor/outdoor (I/O) ratios; and 4) evaluate the health and monetary benefits of using air purifiers. / Methods: This study involved air quality monitoring in three London nurseries over 8-12 months during COVID-19. Indoor and outdoor pollutants were measured using both direct reading and passive monitoring methods, alongside monitoring of window states and air purifier operations. / Results: Operational changes during the pandemic, such as increased window use for ventilation, resulted in lower levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as aldehydes, except for formaldehyde and 2-ethylhexanol. The mean reduction rate of PM2.5 with air purifiers was 63% with windows closed and 46% with windows open. Strong diurnal and seasonal variations in I/O ratios were evident. The QALY gain was calculated at 257.5 to 425.4 per 10,000 children, with potential monetary benefits from air purifier use in 77 London nurseries reaching £3.3 to £6.5 million annually. / Conclusion: This thesis provides evidence for policymakers, strongly supporting the implementation and proper operation of HEPA filter air purifiers in schools to protect the health of vulnerable children.

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