ORIGINAL RESEARCH
The Variability of Indoor Air Pollutants
in the Office and Their Impact
on the Workers’ Health
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1
Interdisciplinary School of Doctoral Studies, “Aurel Vlaicu” University, Romania,
2 Elena Drăgoi, Arad 310330, Romania
2
Institute of Interdisciplinary Research; Faculty of Food Engineering, Tourism and Environmental Protection,
Aurel Vlaicu University of Arad, Elena Drăgoi St., no. 2, 310330 Arad, Romania
3
2ndDepartment of Internal Medicine, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy,
8 Victor Babes St., 400012, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
Submission date: 2023-12-05
Final revision date: 2024-03-01
Acceptance date: 2024-03-24
Online publication date: 2024-06-20
Corresponding author
Lucian Copolovici
Natural and Technical Science, Aurel Vlaicu University from Arad, 2 Elena Dragoi, 310330, Arad, Romania
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ABSTRACT
This study examines the dynamics of indoor air quality in an office environment within
a metropolis, with a specific focus on particulate matter (PM), formaldehyde, and total volatile organic
compounds (TVOCs). The levels of PM concentrations stay constant at a value of 13.9±2.9 μg/m3 for
PM2.5 throughout working hours, with a significant impact on human activities. The formaldehyde
concentration inside increases thrice during 8 hours, from 9±5 μg/m3 to 27±14 μg/m3, primarily from
furniture and electronics. The total volatile organic compounds (TVOCs) levels significantly increase
from 0.050±0.044 μg/m3 at 8.00 to 0.14±0.11 μg/m3 at 15.00, which can be attributed to indoor
contaminants such as plastics and consumer items. PM concentrations exhibit seasonal fluctuations,
with higher levels observed during colder months (37±5 μg/m3 for PM2.5 in December and 8±1 μg/m3
for PM2.5 in August in the office, mainly due to outdoor contribution. Analysis of settled dust indicates
a varied composition, suggesting the presence of both building materials and human activity. Employees
exhibit symptoms consistent with Sick Building Syndrome, with a higher prevalence among females.
The results emphasize the significance of dealing with variations in indoor air quality and identifying
the causes that affect the health of occupants and the well-being of the workplace.