More than 13 million people in the UK are allergic to pollen and the number is growing. People with hay fever usually experience symptoms including sneezing, itchy eyes and sore throat but it can also exacerbate more serious respiratory conditions like asthma and COPD. Pollen (a fine powder released by plants, trees and grasses) also carries other airborne particles and saliva droplets making the transmission of viruses more likely too.

Using TEL airflow control and monitoring solutions can significantly reduce the impact of pollen on Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) and counteract the negative impact it has on businesses and other organisations.

Pollen indoors

When pollen levels are high outside, it seeps in through doors and windows. It’s also carried inside on clothes which means that high footfall areas – like offices, retail spaces and healthcare environments – are especially susceptible to high levels of pollen. Once inside, pollen becomes trapped, negatively impacting employees and visitors.

How pollen impacts organisations

Sustained hay fever (seasonal allergic rhinitis) can be debilitating to suffers with consequences for business owners and premises managers including:

• Negative impact on the health and wellbeing of employees.
• Increased absenteeism among workforce.
• Reduced concentration and productivity.
• Poor physical environment for tenants and visitors.

Building managers should therefore consider pollen levels (and other common airborne allergens) as part of their overall commitment to delivering good IAQ.

A proactive approach to pollen

There are things we can all do to help; keeping windows and doors closed when levels are high and, maintaining regular, robust cleaning regimes and using air purifiers in high footfall areas.

TEL airflow control and monitoring

Our airflow monitoring and control solutions are especially effective at dealing with allergens, including pollen, dust mites and indoor mould, and because they control airflow according to need, deliver a significant reduction in energy costs too.

Benefits of TEL airflow control and monitoring technology:

• Remove allergens and other pollutants from indoor air helping to support health and wellbeing.
• Minimise energy consumption.
• Contribute to carbon reduction strategies.
• Reduce operational costs.
• Adaptable to change of use within space.
• Contribute to a positive user experience of the environment.
• Ensure compliance with relevant health and safety regulations including BS40102.

To help employees and visitors breathe easy while they’re on your premises, call us on +44 (0) 1457 865 635.