An invisible crisis 

Indoor air quality (IAQ) has become a major concern for South African businesses because of its negative impact on the health of their employees. The quality of air in our offices, schools, and homes has been deteriorating over time, leading to a growing crisis.

With about 90% of our lives spent indoors, it is alarming to know that interior air can be up to five times more polluted than the air outside. Each day we inhale 11,000 litres of air. We filter our drinking water; it is vital to also ensure the air we breathe is clean and safe.

What causes poor IAQ?

According to the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), one of the primary causes of indoor air problems are volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are emitted as gases from common household products. Paints, varnishes, and wax contain organic solvents, as do many cleaning, disinfecting, and degreasing products. Poor ventilation can aggravate the situation. The EPA recognises poor IAQ as one of the top five health hazards and consistently ranks indoor air pollution as an important environmental health problem. 

Poor IAQ is a health and safety issue

The World Health Organization (WHO) has identified indoor air pollution as an invisible threat to us all. Exposure to indoor pollutants has been linked to reduced concentration and diminished cognitive abilities, while poor IAQ can lead to various health issues, such as respiratory problems, eye irritation, and cardiovascular issues. Maintaining high indoor air quality is crucial for providing a hygienic and safe environment. Investing in good indoor air quality demonstrates attention and care in health, safety, labour standards, and risk management. 

A range suitable for all sectors

Initial Hygiene South Africa is at the forefront of addressing the need for clean and safe indoor environments. The company is continuously looking at ways to minimise absenteeism and increase productivity in different sectors. It has ensured that its range of Viruskiller air purifiers is suitable for all sectors. 

Its smallest air purifier, Hextio, helps maintain clean air in close proximity, making it perfect for smaller spaces such as desks, reception counters, or small boardrooms. It can help improve academic performance for students and increase employee productivity. Small and medium-sized commercial spaces such as offices, reception areas, meeting rooms, retail units, and classrooms often have floor space concerns. The VK 401 air purifier is suitable for wall-mounting, reducing these concerns while providing a hygienic and safe working environment and improving customer experience. 

Larger areas such as hospitals, factories, manufacturing sites, open-plan offices, supermarkets, and malls need a powerful and effective air purifier. Illnesses can spread rapidly in large spaces. The VK 102 is Initial Hygiene South Africa’s most powerful Viruskiller air purifier. It safeguards the well-being of everyone in the area and helps protect a brand’s reputation. 

Bring clean air into the washroom 

The air in the washroom is often neglected, but washroom hygiene is an important consideration for businesses that care about the health and safety of employees and customers. 

A washroom with poor indoor air quality is unpleasant. Bad odours, airborne viruses, and bacteria can chase away customers. The Initial AIRDuo is designed to help create a pleasant and safe experience for employees and customers by filtering the air in any washroom. 

Protecting people

People are the biggest asset to most businesses; protecting their health and ensuring their safety should be an ongoing priority. Modern life has reduced the time we spend outside, so we need to value and invest in good indoor air quality.

Subscribe to Initial Hygiene South Africa’s blog for more hygiene insights.