Cross-sectional associations of indoor environmental parameters and socioeconomic indicators with bedroom dampness schoolchildren-related exposures in Porto homes. (November 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Sousa, Joana
• Is Part Of: Building and environment. Volume 205(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-11
• Subjects: Mould growth -- Condensation -- Hygrothermal assessment -- Children bedrooms -- Household dampness -- Home environment; Buildings -- Environmental engineering -- Periodicals; Building -- Research -- Periodicals; Constructions -- Technique de l'environnement -- Périodiques; Electronic journals; 696
• DOI: 10.1016/j.buildenv.2021.108197
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0360-1323

Abstract

Abstract: Considering the time spent in enclosed environments, children are particularly vulnerable to indoor dampness-related indicators exposure. Seventy-six homes from 8 to 10 years old children were used to investigate the prevalence of home dampness-related indicators and their relationship with indoor environmental parameters and socioeconomic indicators, in Porto-Portugal. Few studies have included a walkthrough inspection and environmental parameters measurements in children's bedrooms. Results indicate that mean CO2 levels were significantly higher in bedrooms with visible mould growth (1093 vs. 757 ppm, p = 0.006) and in bedrooms with tendency for formation of condensations (978 vs. 752 ppm, p = 0.025). Mean relative humidity levels were also significantly higher in bedrooms with visible mould growth (61 vs. 53 %, p = 0.012). A positive correlation was found between the occupation density and the mould spot extent in the room (ρ = −0.658, p < 0.001). Recent buildings have tendency for having less water traces indoor; and parents with lower school levels (0–9 years) have higher tendency for having condensation on windows. This research makes a contribute to the literature on exposure to indoor pollutants. Highlights: Homes from children were used to investigate the prevalence of dampness indicators. Bedrooms with visible mould growth had higher CO2 and relative humidity values. A significant relation between occupation density and the mould extent was found. Tendency for formation of condensation on windows was the dominant damp indicator. Older buildings are more likely to have dampness predictors indoor than recent ones.