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**In addition ACI has a contract to distribute filters through KCDA for schools. Learn more here. **

Elevating Indoor Air Quality in Seattle’s Educational Institutions This article examines the importance of indoor air quality at K–12 schools, colleges and universities in the Seattle area and offers strategies that personnel can use to improve IAQ. Article Chapters

1. The Critical Importance of Indoor Air Quality
2. Indoor Air Quality and Student Health
3. Air Pollutants in Educational Facilities
4. Unique Pollutants in Gymnasiums and Laboratories
5. Health Risks From Poor Indoor Air Quality
6. Air Filtration Solutions for Educational Institutions
7. Air Filters and Filtration Technology
8. Economic and Environmental Advantages of Long-Life Air Filters
9. Facility Personnel Responsible for IAQ
10. Conclusion

  Introduction Based in Seattle, Washington, ACI Mechanical and HVAC Sales (ACI) has been collaborating with engineers, facility operators and contractors in the Pacific Northwest since 1985. The company focuses on providing solutions that enhance indoor air quality (IAQ), optimize energy efficiency and improve building economics, ultimately ensuring healthy air and comfort for occupants. ACI’s expertise and commitment to customer service have led to the implementation of its air quality solutions in numerous school and university buildings across the region. “Indoor air quality is important to all commercial and residential buildings, but it is exceptionally significant in educational facilities because it directly impacts the learning environment,” says Keith Glasch, ACI’s president. “Driven by our expertise and customer service, ACI’s air quality solutions are found in school and university buildings throughout the region to help safeguard the well-being of students, faculty and staff and to meet regulatory standards.” Read more here. The Critical Importance of Indoor Air Quality Maintaining optimal IAQ is crucial for preserving the health and safety of individuals in educational settings, including K–12 schools and higher education institutions. Inadequate IAQ has the potential to result in respiratory illnesses, allergies and other physical ailments, impacting concentration in the classroom and elevating absenteeism. Consequently, it is imperative for managers of educational facilities to proactively implement measures that uphold the highest IAQ standards to foster a secure and healthy learning environment. In particular, providing clean indoor air at K–12 schools is important because young people in these age groups are developing physically and cognitively. ​​According to Camfil USA air filtration experts, “We have long recognized the importance of proper ventilation and filtration in improving indoor air quality. This is especially crucial in schools, where millions of students spend a significant amount of their day. Unfortunately, a recent report by the Environmental Law Institute has shed light on the inadequate ventilation and filtration in many of these schools, and the unequal distribution of this burden, particularly in communities with low wealth, rural locations and students of color.” Read the full story. Similarly, within colleges and universities, inadequate IAQ heightens the risk of health issues and diminishes productivity for students, faculty and staff. Selecting optimal HVAC and filtration systems for higher education facilities proves challenging due to the diverse array of environments, including classrooms, gyms, dining areas, labs, libraries, hallways, offices, living spaces and other communal areas. The unique requirements and obstacles of each campus facility are also influenced by factors such as building type, age and condition, necessitating consultation with qualified professionals. It is crucial to adhere to pertinent standards and regulations for IAQ management tailored to the specific context of each facility.^[1] Facility managers and personnel at educational facilities can maintain good IAQ by identifying and removing sources of indoor air pollution. This involves ensuring that HVAC systems are well designed, operated and maintained. Monitoring the effects of construction, renovation and maintenance projects on IAQ is also essential. Equally important is educating students, faculty and staff about their role in preserving safe IAQ and encouraging them to report any concerns to facilities management.^[2] “It is important for facility operators to consult with an air filtration expert to make sure the building’s air filters are designed to capture large, small, nuisance and hazardous particles. Well-designed ventilation and filtration go hand in hand to create good indoor air quality,” Camfil USA air filtration experts note. “Even the best HVAC systems won’t clean the air if they don’t include the right air filters that have been installed correctly to handle the job.” Read the full story. Indoor Air Quality and Student Health Inadequate IAQ in K–12 schools, colleges and universities increases the risk of persistent health issues for both students and staff. Contaminated indoor air has detrimental effects on the learning environment, student well-being and attendance. Similarly, it diminishes the productivity of instructors and staff due to discomfort, illness or absenteeism. Subpar IAQ in educational institutions can contribute to or exacerbate conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, respiratory infections, allergies, coughing, eye irritation, sinus congestion, sore throat, skin rash, dizziness and/or nausea. Furthermore, breathing polluted air may lead to fatigue and headaches, potentially hindering a student’s ability to learn and concentrate. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), one in 13 school-age children has asthma, which is a leading cause of school absenteeism. Indoor exposure to airborne allergens common in K–12 schools triggers asthma symptoms.^[3] Camfil USA air filtration experts explain, “… a crucial factor in a student’s success is the air they breathe. Research has demonstrated the effects of air quality on several key aspects of cognition. …  Sharp cognitive function is especially important for children, as it is necessary for developing critical thinking skills, absorbing information, and learning problem-solving.” Read the full story. Air Pollutants in Educational Facilities There are two primary sources contributing to IAQ issues in schools: ambient (outdoor) pollution infiltrating the building and indoor pollution originating from activities and materials within the facility. Outdoor air pollution that makes its way into school buildings comes from sources contingent upon local geographical factors, such as population density, proximity to industrial sites and farms, vehicular traffic, climate, weather patterns, soil composition and vegetation. The EPA identifies various potential indoor sources of air pollution in schools. Particulate matter sources include chalk dust, sawdust, food preparation debris, combustion by-products, excess humidity and individuals with contagious illnesses. Additionally, numerous everyday materials and equipment release volatile organic compounds (VOC), either independently or through reactions with other airborne chemicals, forming more hazardous pollutants. School-based VOC sources include cleaning supplies, printing and copying machines, pesticides, personal care products, art and shop class materials, science and laboratory supplies, furniture, flooring and dry-erase markers. While school facilities personnel work to select materials and equipment with lower pollution levels, complete elimination of all sources is unfeasible, as many are integral to learning activities or essential for maintaining a hygienic environment. Therefore, the focus shifts to removing pollutants from the air post-emission. Consulting with experts is crucial to determine the most effective air filters and purifiers for ensuring clean air in schools. “Indoor pollution sources alone produce both gaseous pollutants, including VOCs, and particulate matter, which means that optimizing air quality in schools will involve using both activated carbon filters and mechanical filters, ideally HEPA filters or MERV-A-rated filters,” Camfil USA air filtration experts note. Read the full story. Unique Pollutants in Gymnasiums and Laboratories Gymnasiums Typical air pollutants found in schools include pollen, dust, VOCs, mold, carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides and fine particulate matter (PM 2.5). Particular attention is warranted in areas like gymnasiums and fitness centers, where inadequate air filtration and ventilation pose potential health risks for visitors. For instance, in a crowded gym, elevated carbon dioxide levels can result from intense breathing. The gym environment may also be contaminated by chemicals such as formaldehyde present in cleaners and plastic equipment, as well as airborne dust particles and viruses settling on surfaces. A research study revealed that a single person engaged in exercise emits more chemicals than five sedentary individuals. These emissions, including amino acids from sweat and acetone from breath, chemically combine with cleaners commonly used on equipment, producing new airborne chemicals.^[4] Chemical emissions from cleaning products like ammonia and bleach are known to be harmful to human health and potentially lethal when used together. This underscores the imperative for proper air filtration and ventilation in school gymnasiums to mitigate these health risks. “Indoor air can contain up to 50 times the contaminant level of outdoor air,” Camfil USA air filtration experts say. “It’s important to understand that air is recirculated through an HVAC system that may not be equipped with adequate air filters to handle the load created inside the facility.” Read the full story. Laboratories Students, instructors and other school personnel working in laboratories face potential exposure to various hazardous air pollutants and compounds. Many hazardous waste products often used in laboratories possess the ability to ignite, corrode, react violently with other compounds, or pose general toxicity risks to the human body. The release of toxic chemical waste in the form of airborne particles can pose a threat to the respiratory system, kidneys and nervous system. Although it is essential to adhere to safety protocols and utilize appropriate equipment to minimize the dispersion or emission of toxic particles, accidents can still happen. Therefore, the use of high-quality commercial air filters becomes imperative for laboratories. The implementation of commercial air filters and industrial air filtration units plays a crucial role in safeguarding the well-being of people working in a lab by restricting their exposure to toxic chemical wastes. “Because of the great amount of harm that exposure to toxic chemicals can create, toxic substances should be controlled through the use of commercial air filters and proper ventilation,” Camfil USA air filtration experts say. “Industrial air filtration and ventilation will reduce the level of dangerous chemicals in the air by either trapping the chemical particles in commercial air filters or by reducing their concentration through exchanging indoor air with outside air.” Read the full story. Health Risks From Poor Indoor Air Quality Poor IAQ in K–12 schools, colleges and universities can cause or contribute to a variety of health problems, ranging from mild symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, eye irritation and fatigue to more serious conditions such as asthma, respiratory infections, allergic reactions and even cancer. It can also affect the comfort, concentration and performance of students and staff, as well as increase absenteeism and health care costs.^[5] Some of the common sources of indoor air pollutants in schools include mold, radon, secondhand smoke, dust mites, pet dander, pesticides, cleaning products, paints, adhesives, carpets, furniture and emissions from motor vehicles and equipment.^[6],[7] To improve IAQ in schools, the EPA recommends implementing a comprehensive IAQ management program that involves identifying and resolving existing or potential air quality problems, as well as preventing future problems through regular maintenance, ventilation, air filtration and communication. The EPA also provides a reference guide, a toolkit and other resources to help schools develop and implement effective IAQ programs.^[8] Addressing indoor air quality through proper ventilation, regular maintenance and the use of air filtration systems is crucial to creating a healthy and conducive learning environment in schools. For example, this school system aimed to enhance IAQ across its facilities to promote the long-term well-being of faculty, students, employees and visitors. Faced with constraints posed by the current HVAC systems in numerous facilities, administrators opted to deploy Camfil’s City M air purifiers. These devices were installed in classrooms across the school system, especially in spaces lacking central HVAC systems or having limited ones, to effectively eliminate air particles and improve overall air quality. Read the case study. Air Filtration Solutions for Educational Institutions Selecting the most suitable air filtration systems for K–12 schools, colleges and universities presents a challenge due to the diverse environments within each building. The choice of air filters depends on factors such as the type and size of airborne particles, as well as the recommended minimum efficiency reporting value (MERV). MERV ratings gauge how effectively an air filter can eliminate particles of various sizes. During the pandemic, a task force organized by The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) recommended a minimum filtration efficiency target of MERV 13. However, it’s crucial to note that not all filters rated MERV 13 consistently maintain the stated efficiency over their life cycle. ASHRAE introduced the MERV-A rating to designate filters that have undergone additional testing to ensure their rated efficiency endures throughout their lifespan. It is advisable for K–12 schools, colleges and universities to use MERV-A-rated air filters whenever possible for optimal performance. A MERV 13/13A filter is specified to eliminate 50 percent of particles larger than 0.3 microns, while a MERV 16/16A filter targets 95 percent removal. HEPA filters are tested and certified to capture at a minimum 99.7 percent of particles at .03 microns or larger. Note that certain air filters incorporate an electrostatic charge that temporarily enhances particle capture efficiency, thereby inflating the MERV rating. However, as the filter accumulates airborne contaminants, the benefit of the electrostatic charge diminishes, causing a reduction in the MERV value. Within a relatively brief period, the particle capture efficiency of a MERV 13 air filter may decline to the level of a MERV 8 filter. In many cases, a school’s HVAC system may be designed to accommodate only one-, two- or four-inch air filters. For instance, single-stage air handling units often support two-inch-deep pleated filters. Using MERV 13 (not MERV 13A filters) could result in a rapid drop to as low as MERV 8, which may not offer sufficient protection for building occupants. One solution would be to use Camfil’s MERV-9A-rated 30/30 Dual 9 air filter (which maintains its MERV 9 performance) and supplementing air filtration with Camfil’s City M in-room air cleaner in classrooms and other areas requiring additional HEPA filtration. Because determining the best solution to initiate IAQ improvements is complicated, it is advisable to consult with an air filtration expert specializing in educational facilities. “Each public building has different needs, which should be evaluated by a professional with experience in virus filtration. Recommending different filter styles over the phone in order to achieve a MERV 13 efficiency carries a certain level of risk,” Camfil USA air filtration experts add. “[I]f you plan on upgrading, make sure you involve a qualified HVAC professional who can help answer these questions to make sure you don’t cause harm to your system or your space.” Read the full story. Air Filters and Filtration Technology IAQ within school buildings is influenced by various factors, including the HVAC system, spatial design and pollutant source management. The HVAC system plays a crucial role in ventilating, heating, cooling, circulating and purifying the air within the building, influencing the distribution and removal of pollutants. However, the HVAC system itself can become a source of pollutants. For instance, contamination may occur when dirt or moisture affects ventilation air filters, or when water stagnates in drip pans or ducts, leading to microbial growth.^[9] Effective enhancement of indoor air quality in K–12 schools, colleges and universities hinges on proper ventilation and air filtration. Building ventilation works by drawing in fresh air and expelling contaminated indoor air. Air filters play a crucial role in purifying the air within HVAC and air purification systems. These filters permit the passage of clean air while capturing pollutants, as they are strategically placed in the system to prevent the entry of contaminants into the indoor environment. Air filters are made from various media, which are materials capable of trapping pollutants. Examples include synthetic or micro-glass fibers, and some filters incorporate activated carbon, which has the ability to adsorb chemicals and odors from the air. Examples of air filters include:

• Bag filters and compact filters (V-bank and box): Used as high-efficiency final filters or as prefilters for HEPA installations
• Panel filters: Used as the main filter or as prefilters to extend the life of final filters
• High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters: For very small particles, such as allergens and pathogens
• Activated carbon filters: For odors, gases and VOCs

  “Air filtration complements ventilation by capturing airborne contaminants with air filters. This process cleans the air before it is returned to the indoor environment. … It is important for facility operators to consult with an air filtration expert to make sure the building’s air filters are designed to capture large, small, nuisance and hazardous particles,” Camfil USA air filtration experts explain. Read the full story. Economic and Environmental Advantages of Long-Life Air Filters In K–12 school, college and university facilities, multiple HVAC units are commonly employed, each equipped with several air filters. Consequently, cost considerations often prompt facility personnel to opt for the least expensive air filters capable of performing the necessary tasks. However, the use of standard air filters typically leads to frequent replacements due to quick clogging, airflow restrictions and increased energy consumption to move air through the filter. Standard air filters typically need replacement three or four times a year, contributing to cumulative expenses. An effective approach to mitigate air filter costs is to choose long-life filters that need replacement less frequently. Although these high-efficiency air filters may incur higher initial costs, they operate efficiently for extended periods, resulting in an overall longer lifespan. With fewer change-outs required, the total cost of air filter management using high-efficiency filters is generally considerably lower than that associated with using lower-cost air filters. “When attached to a heating, ventilation and air conditioning unit, a high-efficiency air filter captures and removes pollutants from the air as they enter the HVAC system and ductwork, ensuring that any air circulating inside a room or brought in from the outside is free of contaminants,” Camfil USA air filtration experts explain. Read the full story. Energy Savings In a school facility, energy expenses are primarily influenced by fans, heating steam, miscellaneous equipment, lighting, cooling and HVAC pumps. When considering the overall breakdown, approximately 65 percent of the energy costs in an average school facility are directly associated with the HVAC system. Long-life filters are designed to uphold optimal airflow, reducing the strain on the HVAC system as it draws air through the ducts and vents. This translates to decreased energy consumption, leading to monthly savings. Read the full story.  Improved Labor Efficiency Ventilation units accumulate both outdoor and indoor airborne contaminants, posing a risk to system efficiency and IAQ if neglected. Unfortunately, maintaining and replacing air filters in these units present a challenge for many schools due to labor shortages. With multiple ventilation units in each school, the process of changing an air filter is labor intensive, taking approximately two hours per unit, encompassing preparation, cleaning, replacement and disposal of the used filter. The use of high-efficiency air filters addresses this challenge by reducing the labor hours required to maintain air handling systems in schools. These filters retain peak efficiency for extended periods compared to less expensive alternatives, resulting in a longer lifespan and fewer necessary change-outs. A study conducted by Camfil demonstrated an 80 percent reduction in labor hours through the implementation of high-quality air filters. This study highlights the significant impact that highly efficient air filtration can have on energy consumption, labor hours and landfill waste compared to less effective solutions. Read the full case study. Reduced Carbon Footprint According to K12 Climate Action, an initiative examining ways the education sector can help to fight against climate change, K–12 schools in the U.S. significantly contribute to the country’s large carbon footprint. Operating the nearly 100,000 public K–12 schools in the U.S. consumes a tremendous amount of energy—the equivalent of 18 coal-fired power plants or 15 million cars each year. Energy consumption is also the second-largest source of expenses for school districts.^[10] Implementing air filters specifically designed for optimal performance in educational institutions allows facility managers in schools, colleges and universities to realize significant potential reductions in energy usage and consequently a substantial decrease in the associated carbon footprint. Read the full story. Minimizing airborne pollutants in school facilities not only enhances operational efficiency, but also reduces energy consumption, resulting in lowered emissions. In cases where the school’s HVAC system lacks compatibility with high-efficiency filters, standalone air purifiers of superior quality, such as Camfil’s City M portable units, offer an excellent solution for effectively eliminating airborne particles and gaseous pollutants, including VOCs. Facility Personnel Responsible for IAQ Managers across various domains, including facilities, engineering, supply chain, procurement, buildings and grounds, as well as environmental health and safety, collectively contribute to ensuring the safe IAQ in K–12 schools, colleges and universities. It is crucial for all these facility professionals to be cognizant of potential indoor hazards related to airborne particulates and vapors, and to prioritize proper ventilation and air filtration to eliminate these threats. These team leaders actively engage in the development and implementation of strategies aimed at reducing indoor air pollution. This involves tasks such as maintaining ventilation systems and incorporating advanced air filtration systems. By taking proactive measures to enhance IAQ, they play a vital role in fostering a healthier environment for everyone within the facility. “School administrators, board members or anyone in the position to make decisions about a school’s infrastructure and facilities need to consult industrial air filter manufacturers before deciding on any type of air filtration system. While attaching an air purification system to a centralized HVAC system or an in-wall vent goes a long way to improving indoor air quality in schools, results can be maximized if experts are brought in to assess the school building’s layout, size and presence of any particular pollutant,” Camfil USA air filtration experts explain. Read the full story. Conclusion By investing in effective IAQ management strategies, including long-life air filters, facility leaders at K–12 schools, colleges and universities can create a safer and more comfortable environment conducive to learning and productivity. Camfil’s premium air filtration products are suitable for use in all types of educational facilities and are engineered to meet critical requirements including reducing operating, energy, labor and waste removal costs. Here are a few proven solutions:

• Farr 30/30® high-capacity pleated panel air filter with true MERV 8A maintained efficiency, ISO 16890 ePM10 50 percent and an industry-leading 5-Star Energy Cost Index rating.

 

• 30/30® Dual 9 with true MERV 9A maintained efficiency, ISO 16890 ePM10 55 percent, an industry-leading 5-Star Energy Cost Index rating and guaranteed service life of 9 to 12 months.

 

• Durafil® ES³ high-capacity, high-efficiency, V-style air filter available in MERV 11A, 13A, 14A and 16A with an industry-leading 5-Star Energy Cost Index rating.

 

• Hi-Flo® ES multi-pocket, high-efficiency air filters with tapered pleats and pockets available in MERV 11A, 13A, 14A and 15A with an industry-leading 5-Star Energy Cost Index rating.

 

• Molecular air filters that remove molecules, gases and vapors from the air and are tested according to ISO 10121 or ASHRAE 145.2. Molecules are typically 1,000 to 10,000 times smaller than the most penetrating particles that move through HEPA and ULPA filters.

 

• City M Air Purifier includes particulate and molecular filters that deliver a healthier indoor environment by removing dust, contaminants, odors, aerosols and harmful particles.

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