Enhanced Building Ventilation Improves Health and Cognitive Function

Facility managers are aware that proper HVAC can help improve indoor air quality and eliminate airborne pathogens. A new study from Harvard University researchers also finds that healthy buildings with enhanced ventilation can improve the cognitive function of occupants.

The COGfx Study 3, supported by Carrier Global Corporation, examined the impact of indoor air quality on how people think and feel. It found that good indoor air quality could increase an organization’s bottom line through increased worker productivity, fewer sick days, and better cognitive function.

The study examined the impact of indoor air quality on the cognitive function of office workers in six countries—the United States, the United Kingdom, China, India, Mexico, and Thailand. The research found that the workers’ cognitive function declines as the levels of fine particulate matter (PM_2.5) and carbon dioxide (CO₂) increase. Higher CO₂ can be an indicator of poor ventilation in buildings.

Mechanical ventilation, such as an HVAC system with efficient filtration, can help to protect building occupants from the negative cognitive effects of PM_2.5 and CO₂. Reducing building inhabitants’ exposure to PM_2.5 is associated with many other health benefits including reductions in cardiovascular disease, asthma attacks, and premature death.

“As more people move toward returning to offices, schools and recreational activities, the health, safety and intelligence of indoor environments have come into greater focus,” said Dave Gitlin, Chairman & CEO, Carrier. “The COGfx Study continues to demonstrate that proper ventilation and filtration of indoor environments plays an important role across the globe in fostering a proactive health strategy.”