Economics of indoor air quality

Healthcare expenses

Increased doctor visits

Poor IAQ can trigger allergies and asthma attacks, leading to more frequent visits to the doctor or even hospital stays.

Medication costs

Managing these conditions often requires expensive medications, adding to the financial burden.

Long-term health problems

Exposure to certain pollutants can increase the risk of chronic diseases, resulting in significant healthcare costs over a lifetime.

Productivity loss

IAQ can affect our cognitive function and overall well-being.

Reduced cognitive function

Studies have shown that poor IAQ can impair cognitive skills like decision-making, problem-solving, and memory. This "brain fog" can lead to errors and reduced productivity.

Increased absenteeism

When people are constantly battling allergies or respiratory problems due to poor IAQ, they're more likely to take sick days, impacting workforce productivity.

Presenteeism

Even if people show up to work, they may not be performing at their best due to the effects of poor IAQ. This "presenteeism" can be just as costly as absenteeism.

Property damage

Poor IAQ doesn't just affect people; it can also affect the building itself.

Mold and mildew

Excess moisture and poor ventilation can lead to mold growth, which can damage building materials like walls, ceilings, and flooring.

Structural damage

In severe cases, mold can even compromise the structural integrity of a building.

Increased maintenance costs

Dealing with mold and other IAQ problems requires specialized cleaning and repairs, which can be expensive.

Other aspects

• Decreased property value: A building with known IAQ problems can be difficult to sell or rent, leading to a decrease in property value.
• Negative publicity: In commercial settings, poor IAQ can lead to negative publicity and damage a business's reputation.