Perceived air quality and performance of subjects in room with different air pollution levels.

In an office renovate one year previously, a study of perceived air quality, sick building syndrome symptoms and subject performance was made. Thirty one female college age subjects were exposed to the conditions in the same office with an outdoor airflow of 280 m3/h and 45 m3/h. The subjects assessed perceived air quality and SBS symptoms while performing simulated work. Formaldehyde and VOC measurements were much higher in the room with lower ventilation rate, though no significant difference was noted in odour intensity. However, 10% of persons were dissatisfied with the air quality in this office. There was also a significant difference in the performance of a proofreading task on computer between the two rates.