WHO Policy implications of interventions to reduce indoor air pollution by damp

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"It is expected that at the end of this project, recommendations can be formulated for public policy aiming at reduction of health impacts of biological contaminants in indoor air."

Policy implications of interventions to reduce indoor air pollution by damp and mould

European review of case studies and policies

Exposures to biological agents in indoor environments are a significant health hazard causing a wide range of health effects. The presence of biological agents in the indoor air is attributable to housing characteristics and in particular to dampness, inadequate ventilation and structural failures. Dampness has been therefore suggested to be the strongest and most consistent indicator of risk for asthma and respiratory symptoms (e.g. cough and wheeze) related to indoor air quality. Proper ventilation on the other hand is an important control for humidity, and prevention of condensation, and is also an important determinant of good indoor air quality.

However, the implementation of specific actions to achieve indoor conditions that are acceptable from a health perspective is still a difficult area for public health due to the great variety of indoor spaces, fragmentation of responsibilities and, in case of homes, a limited mandate of public authorities for interventions.

This project will accumulate evidence on existing actions implemented in various countries to address health hazards associated with dampness, mould and inadequate ventilation. This review will consider the effectiveness of the interventions, as well as their practical constraints and feasibility. It is expected that at the end of this project, recommendations can be formulated for public policy aiming at reduction of health impacts of biological contaminants in indoor air.

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