Workplace Compliance | Ventilation

Following the latest revision of our popular eBook A Guide to Workplace Compliance we are launching a number of short blogs highlighting each essential section. In this blog we look at key ventilation system compliance concerns.

Ventilation at the workplace

Workplaces are required to be adequately ventilated, thus providing clean air to employees and building occupants. Other than failing to deliver suitable working conditions, underperforming and infrequently serviced heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems pose several health and safety risks.

Requirements for the provision of ventilation to buildings are set out in the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992.

Here are a few health risks associated with poor air quality in work areas.

  • Spread of air borne bacteria causing illness and disease.

  • Respiratory difficulty in individuals with Asthma.

  • Health risks associated with breathing combustion fumes created by furnaces and other gas appliances.

  • Heightened irritability due to poor air quality or the environment being too hot or too cold.

  • Inadequate air ventilation in buildings with high moisture levels may contribute to structural degradation.

How can you keep your building compliant?

As a Facilities, Maintenance or Building Manager, keeping up to date with the laws and regulations that govern the workplace is an essential part of the important job you do. Acts, Regulations and Statutory Instruments work in conjunction to bring about a framework of good practice within which you and your business can work to meet your obligations to provide health and safety in the workplace.

To find out more about best practice for ventilation systems and what is required to ensure your workplace environment meets today's requirements, download our eBook - A Guide to Workplace Compliance. Within this eBook is some useful information on gas, electrical, air and ventilation safety as well as other areas of workplace compliance. There are checklists for you to follow highlighting, with easy reference, what your responsibilities are.