Insight into air quality with air measurements

Did you know that we conduct air quality measurements on location?

With an advanced Particle Counter, we measure the particulate matter concentration at different points to get a complete picture of the indoor air environment and quality. In the photo you can see our colleague Paul Santra. Paul is our marketer and he performs air quality measurements on location. An ideal combination, because with his expertise he can provide our clients with suitable advice after a measurement. How does this work? Read the interview with Paul here:

Why do you think indoor air quality is so important? 

We spend an average of 8 to 10 hours indoors per day. Whether at the office, in a care center or, especially in these times, at home. Harmful particulate matter not only floats in the outdoor air, but also in the indoor air. Research shows that poor indoor air quality is extremely detrimental to health.

Have you conducted particulate matter measurements often and where?

I have been to quite a few locations. Including Rotterdam The Hague Airport, Apollo Hotel, Koninklijk Theater Carré, Gemeente Amsterdam, and for example Preston Palace. In many cases, customers want to have their indoor air environment mapped out, but occasionally there are also complaints from building users which prompt customers to engage us to search for the cause of these complaints with our particle counter.

What can air filters contribute to improving indoor air quality?

Air filters with a high PM1 efficiency greatly contribute to air quality. They remove the smallest and most harmful particles from the air. This is also evident from the measurements I conduct. For an air quality measurement, we often come at two moments. During the first measurement, we assess the current situation. We then analyze the results and provide our advice to improve air quality. After our advice has been implemented, we come for the second measurement to see if the advice has had the expected effect. We often achieve improvements of about 40% on the smallest and most harmful particulate matter for health. This improvement is observed both directly behind the supply filters and in the connected spaces of the air handling unit where people work.

You are the specialist in air quality measurements at Interfilter Group. What values are measured?

Particulate matter is an invisible form of air pollution consisting of particles suspended in the air, with a diameter up to 70 times smaller than a hair. During the measurement, I use a highly advanced 'particle counter'. The measurement encompasses different levels of particulate matter concentration: from ultra fine particles up to larger 'particles' (from small to large: PM0.3, PM0.5, PM1, PM2.5, PM5, PM10). In addition, the particle counter also measures temperature and relative humidity.

How is the air quality then mapped out?

For a good reference, I first measure the outdoor air quality. Then I measure for each air handling unit:

• Behind the supply filters
• In the connected space of the air handling unit

These values are tested and analyzed according to the guidelines of Eurovent 4/23 and the WHO. We create a clear and understandable report. If it turns out that the guidelines of these organizations are exceeded, I provide a filter recommendation to improve air quality.

How do you present these results to the customer?

In our report, the operation of different project filters is clearly presented side by side and compared. Including an advice to improve air quality. Either myself or an account manager often personally explains this further in the form of a presentation.

On our website you can find an overview of various projects where air quality measurements have been conducted. Are you curious about the air quality at your location? Feel free to contact us via the contact form or:

Email: info@interfilter.nl

Call or message: (0181) 31 11 87