Evaluation of indoor air quality in schools in meram district and determination of related factors

Objectıve: In this study, it was aimed to determine the level of indoor air quality and factors associated with indoor air quality in classrooms, canteens and cafeterias before and after classes in schools located in Meram region. Method: In this cross-sectional study conducted in Meram district of Konya province between May 2, 2023 and June 16, 2023, measurements were made in 34 schools determined by simple random method. Temperature, relative humidity, air flow rate, NO, H2S, SO2, CO, CO2 gases and particulate matter (>0.3 μm, >0.5 μm, >1.0 μm, >2.5 μm, >5.0 μm, >10.0 μm) were measured for indoor air quality in schools. Results: Of the measurments made in the morninh; 94,10% of the temperature measurements and all of the relative humidity and CO2 measurements were in the optimum range. In the evening, 47.10% of temperature measurements, 76.50% of relative humidity measurements and 47.10% of CO2 measurements were in the optimum range. Evening measurements of temperature, CO2, PM>2.5 μm, PM>5 μm and PM>10 μm were higher than morning measurements. In the canteens, evening measurements of temperature, CO2, PM>2.5 μm and PM>5 μm were higher than the morning measurements. The evening relative humidity value in the canteens was lower than the morning value. In the dining halls, the evening temperature was higher than the morning temperature and the evening relative humidity was lower than the morning relative humidity. The 1000 ppm CO2 limit was more likely to be exceeded in classrooms with class sizes above 30. Conclusion: Especially in classrooms, parameters exceeding the appropriate values were observed. Air quality in schools declines at the end of the day. Arrangements need to be made to monitor and improve air quality in schools.