Healthy air in school can protect your child's growing lungs. These steps can make sure that air in your child's school is safe and healthy for children and adults alike.
1. Know if there is a problem
Are you concerned about the quality of the air in your local school? Learn the signs and symptoms that can indicate unhealthy air. Learn how to identify problems and find out what to do if an indoor air emergency occurs.
2. Eliminate the source
Once the source of air pollution is identified, take steps to eliminate or reduce it. This could mean removing items from the classroom like scented markers, air fresheners, and cleaning supplies. If removal is not an option, reduce or manage the source to improve air quality.
3. Improve ventilation
Indoor air is 3-4 times more polluted than outdoor air. Open a door or window to draw in fresh, outdoor air to reduce indoor air pollutants. If the classroom is near a road or pick-up/drop-off areas, avoid opening windows and doors during high-traffic times of the day.
4. Clean the air
Filter the air with a portable HEPA air cleaner, aka, air purifier. These devices take in the room's air and capture particles, viruses, and many chemicals then release clean air back into the room. Run the air cleaner with all doors and windows closed for maximum efficiency.
5. Adopt policies and programs that maintain good indoor air quality
The most important player in protecting students and staff at school is the school itself. School administrators and facilities managers across the country have taken steps to make sure their schools have clean air indoors. Tobacco- and vape-free school ground policies and school bus anti-idling policies help to protect good air quality at schools.
Learn about the tools they use that can help your local school keep the air healthy for your children.
Page last updated: May 10, 2023
