Improving indoor air quality is not the responsibility of individuals, one industry, one profession or one government department. We must work together to make safe air for children a reality.
Below is an extract of the recommendations made by the Indoor Air Quality Working Party from page 18 of the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health, Royal College of Physicians (2020) publication: The inside story: Health effects of indoor air quality on children and young people. You can find out more about the report here (opens new tab) and download the full report here
14. Schools should:
(a) Use adequate ventilation to prevent the build-up of harmful indoor pollutants, ventilating between classes if outdoor noise causes a problem during lessons. If the school is located close to traffic, it may be best to do this during off-peak periods, or open windows and vents away from the road.
(b) Ensure classrooms are regularly cleaned to reduce dust, and that damp or mould is removed. Repairs may be needed to prevent further damp and mould.
(c) Ensure that any air filtering or cleaning devices are regularly maintained.
(d) Work with the Local Authority, through the ambient air quality action plans, and with parents or carers to reduce traffic and idling vehicles close to the school.