Indoor Environmental Quality in Secondary School: Measurements, Perceptions, and Risk Parameters

This study evaluates selected indoor environmental quality (IEQ) parameters in secondary school premises through a combination of objective measurements and subjective student assessments. The measurements showed that the recommended CO2 concentration limits (max. 4767 ppm) were exceeded and that the concentrations of PM2.5 and PM10 particulate matter were frequently exceeded, indicating inadequate ventilation and increased dust pollution. The subjective perceptions of students confirmed these findings – the most frequently reported problems were stuffy air (59% often, 37% sometimes), noise, and unpleasant odours, with the most prominent symptoms being fatigue (74%), concentration problems (58%), and headaches (41%). The results show that the identified indoor environment deficits may contribute to the occurrence of symptoms associated with sick building syndrome (SBS). Based on these findings, it is necessary to take measures to optimize ventilation, regulate temperature, and reduce dust levels in order to improve the health, well-being, and performance of students.