Approximately 7 million people die every year from exposure to fine particles in polluted air according to World Health Organisation estimates. Particulate inhalation can lead to a host of health issues from lung cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease to stroke and heart disease.
While there is a growing awareness of the risks associated with atmospheric air pollution and increasing efforts to combat it, these efforts are still falling short. Part of this is a misplaced focus. What many people fail to realise is that air pollution can be just as bad – and often worse – indoors, especially in fast paced work environments with goods in process. Contextualising these issues through the framework of human rights and addressing indoor air pollution more intensely are essential steps in guaranteeing clean air to all people.
Clean air is vital for people to thrive, but it is far from guaranteed in all parts of the world. A 2017 review in the International Journal of Public Health found that no country had adopted all of the World Health Organisation guidelines on air quality. Few countries had adopted some guidelines, and 80 countries had no air quality standards whatsoever.
If we believe that all people are entitled to breathe clean air, we must fight this global health crisis at once. Air pollution robs too many people of their rights to life and health.
As the average person spends most of their time at work, it is their employer’s responsibility not to jeopardise their right to breathe clean air. Neglecting employee health and wellbeing affects the business through reduced productivity, increased absenteeism, and high employee turnover.
Business owners have a duty to make the changes necessary to ensure that their companies minimise their environmental impact and prevent the unsafe release of fine particles.
This can mean moving to stop the use of toxic cleaning products, adopting eco-friendly equipment, and developing safer working practices.
One of the most effective ways to reduce or remove fine particles from the air is to install industrial air purification systems. This approach will make a world of difference to the air quality in your facility.