The Importance of PM Monitoring for Indoor Air Quality

The Importance of PM Monitoring for Indoor Air Quality

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What is Particulate Matter?

Particulate Matter (PM) is a category of microscopic airborne contaminants which can be found in the indoor air of buildings. PM emissions can be generated by a number of different sources including heating and cooling systems, office equipment and occupant activities. Particulate matter is distinguished by size. PM10 refers to particles that are 10 micrometers in diameter or less and are visible to the naked eye. PM2.5 refers to particles that are 2.5 micrometers or less in diameter and are considered inhalable.

How does Particulate Matter affect Indoor Air Quality?

Particulate matter is often generated as a by-product of some industrial processes, but can also be produced indoors by activities such as cooking or burning candles. It can also be generated outdoors, but will be drawn into buildings through open windows or air conditioning systems. The PM that is drawn into the indoor air can cause significant harm to the health of building occupants. The smaller the particle, the more harmful it can be. PM10 and PM2.5 are largely generated by external sources, however, they can also be emitted from indoor activities like cooking and dust from shoes and other fabrics. PM1 and PM0.1 are more likely to be generated internally. For example, dust created by occupants can be a significant source of PM1 indoors.

Possible Health Effects of Long-Term Exposure to PM

PM10 and PM2.5 – Long-term exposure to these particulates can lead to a range of respiratory diseases including asthma, bronchitis and lung cancer. PM10 can also increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. PM0.1 – This particle is particularly dangerous for individuals with allergies or asthma as it can cause allergic reactions or exacerbate existing conditions. PM1 – Particles this size can penetrate deep into the lungs and exposure to these over long periods of time can cause chronic inflammation and damage to lung tissue.

Long-term exposure to PM can lead to a range of serious health conditions, including cardiovascular disease and respiratory diseases like asthma. It can also exacerbate existing health conditions. Individuals with respiratory or cardiovascular issues such as asthma, emphysema or heart disease should be particularly careful to avoid long-term exposure to PM.

Particulate matter is a serious indoor air quality issue, especially for individuals with pre-existing respiratory or cardiovascular health conditions. Long-term exposure to PM can lead to serious and even life-threatening health conditions. Building owners and managers can monitor and manage particulate matter levels through a variety of strategies including air filtration, source control and ventilation. For occupants, it’s important to be aware of the potential health risks and take proactive steps to ensure good indoor air quality. This includes using good general indoor air quality practices like cleaning frequently, using chemical-free cleaning products and vacuuming frequently, especially in house dust. For building owners and managers, it’s critical to monitor the indoor air quality and particulate matter levels of the building. This can be done using a wide variety of air monitoring equipment and sensors.

Ace Instruments’ PM Monitoring Range

Know the level of particulate matter in your air, ranging from PM1 to PM10 detection with the Ace Instruments IAQ Particulate Matter (PM) monitoring range. The Ace Instruemnts PM detector (AI-PM-D) allows for users to view PM1, PM2.5 and PM10 concentration in an indoor environment with corresponding buzzer alarms in one solution. Our flagship product: 6 parameter Indoor Air Quality Monitor (AI-IAQ6-PH) allows for the monitoring of PM2.5 and PM10 alongside temperature, humidity, VOC and CO₂ levels.