Indoor air quality in schools is critical for creating a healthy and productive learning environment. During winter and air inversion seasons, pollutants from traffic, industrial activity, and building materials can accumulate, directly affecting both students’ health and academic performance. Here we dive into air quality solutions and guaranteed ways to reduce air pollution in schools.
What is air inversion and why it happens?
Generally, in warm seasons, air near the ground is warmer, allowing moisture, heat and pollution to disperse efficiently. In colder seasons, temperature inversion occurs more frequently when a layer of warm air sits on the top of cooler air, trapping cool air underneath. The main causes of air inversions include nighttime ground cooling after sunset, high-pressure, downhil areas like Tehran, snow covered ground.
IoT-based monitoring solutions now provide real-time insights to help schools manage indoor air pollution, improve air quality, and enhance student well-being.
Key Causes of Air Pollution in Schools
In addition to pollutants released from vehicle exhaust pipes or electricity-generating factories, which are among the most impactful contributors to air pollution in schools, there are other factors and causes, including:
- Aging Buildings and Materials
Schools which were built decades ago may contain hazardous materials such as lead paint or asbestos insulation. Over time, these can degrade and release harmful particles into classrooms. - Poor Ventilation Systems
Many older schools lack effective HVAC systems. Insufficient ventilation leads to the accumulation of CO₂, VOCs, and dust, creating an unhealthy learning environment. - Indoor Pollutant Sources
Furniture, carpets, electronics, and art supplies can release chemical gases, including formaldehyde and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), further increasing indoor air pollution. - External Environmental Factors
Schools located near busy roads or factories are more exposed to outdoor air pollutants entering the building.
Effects of Poor Air Quality on Students
- Respiratory Issues: Exposure to PM (particulate matter) and VOCs can trigger asthma, allergies, coughing, and shortness of breath.
- Reduced Focus and Academic Performance: High CO₂ levels cause fatigue, distraction, behavioral issues, and lower cognitive performance.
- Irritation and Discomfort: VOCs can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat, affecting overall comfort and learning.
Implementing Air Quality Solutions in Schools
IoT solutions worldwide aim to simplify our everyday life, and the same approach applies to conditions for children in schools. Sensors used to for this purpose include particular matter(PM) sensors, temperature and humidity, air-conditioning controllers and other related devices. These components are collectively integrated into a monitoring software, communicating either wirelessly or through wire connections.
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Real-Time Monitoring
IoT sensors continuously track CO₂, VOCs, PM, temperature, and humidity. When pollution exceeds predefined thresholds, the system sends immediate alerts to staff for quick action through visual notifications, messages or phone calls
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Data-Driven Insights
Collected data helps schools:
- Identify pollution sources
- Monitor ventilation system performance
- adjusted cooling systems to work according to pollution levels or humidity
- Track air quality trends over time
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Automated Ventilation Adjustments
IoT sensors can connect to HVAC systems to automatically adjust airflow based on current air quality. For example, if CO₂ levels rise, Sepehr PM2.5 sensor triggers IR remote controllers in response to air quality levels to ensure a safe and efficient learning environment for students.
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Preventive Alerts for Safety
IoT devices can detect water leaks or mold risks that exacerbate air quality issues, preventing structural damage and long-term health problems.
Benefits of IoT Air Quality Solutions in Schools
- Immediate Monitoring: Constant awareness of indoor air quality
- Early Alerts: Fast detection of hazardous pollution levels
- Automated Control: Smart adjustment of ventilation systems
- Cost Efficiency: Optimized energy use and reduced maintenance costs
- Health & Performance: Safer, more focused, and productive learning environments
Future of Schools with IoT Air Quality Solutions
Adopting IoT technology in schools ensures healthier classrooms, improves academic performance, and enhances student well-being. With Sepehr smart monitoring systems, schools can proactively manage air pollution in school and create an environment where students can learn, grow, and thrive in .
