Study Analyzes Indoor Air Quality in Child Care Centers

A pilot project published by Women for a Healthy Environment recently investigated the efficiency of Medifyair Air Filter in reducing PM2.5 concentrations in eight child care centers in four areas of Philadelphia. 

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Analyzed data collected over a two-week period in four environmental justice areas in Philadelphia revealed a decrease in PM 2.5 levels. This demonstrated the effectiveness of the air filters. As a result, indoor air quality improved. Variability among participants highlighted the need for tailored interventions at family and center-based facilities. 

The study determined that child care staff can adjust behavior and schedules to reduce poor air quality impacts by understanding the flow and quality of air inside their centers from indoor air monitoring data. The findings provided insights into improving child care center indoor air quality and also had broader implications to mitigate health disparities in diverse populations.

Recommendations

The study included several recommendations to achieve higher air quality in child care centers. These included:

  • Running Medifyair filters in child care centers year-round during business hours at level 4 speed to ensure optimal air quality where children and staff spend the most time.

  • Adhering to regular filter replacements noted in the unit’s guidelines and instructions.

  • Considering the relocation of air filters near the kitchen during cooking to reduce particulates resulting from this activity.

  • Investing in air quality sensors for consistent monitoring, promoting awareness, and maintaining indoor air quality.

  • Performing daily checks of the outdoor Air Quality Index.

  • Implementing measures to reduce source pollution, such as using walk-off mats and removing shoes to minimize off-gassing and indoor sources.

  • Ensuring proper and adequate ventilation.

  • Distributing and using air filters in both commercial and family-based early learning centers, particularly those located in environmental justice communities with higher-than-average asthma rates in children.

The full study can be found on Women for a Health Environment’s website.

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