Session: 09-05-01: Applied Mechanics, Dynamic Systems, Experimental and Computational Methods, Modeling and Virtual Simulations of Dynamic Structures, Advanced Materials and Testing

Paper Number: 144962

144962 - Improving Indoor Air Quality and Ventilation in Government School Classrooms: a Mechanical Engineering Extension Service 

This paper investigates the indoor air quality (IAQ) and ventilation conditions in classrooms of a three-storey government school building in an urban setting, focusing on implications for student well-being and academic performance. Conducted as a mechanical engineering extension service, the research employed a comprehensive approach, utilizing measurements of temperature, relative humidity, sound and light levels with a digital environment multimeter. Additionally, physical attributes such as total occupants, floor area, windows, doors, lights, and fans were recorded to provide a complete understanding of the indoor environment.

The guidelines from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) were incorporated to ensure compliance and alignment with regulatory standards, enhancing the quality of the study. Interviews with teachers and students further enriched the data, showing light on the practical implications of IAQ on attendance, comfort, and performance in the classroom. Moreover, informative sessions on psychrometrics and IAQ awareness were conducted to address students' queries and bring a culture of understanding regarding indoor environmental factors. The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers, Inc. (ASHRAE) defines acceptable indoor air quality (IAQ) as air in which there are no known contaminants at harmful concentrations as determined by cognizant authorities and which substantial majority (80% or more) of the people exposed do not express dissatisfaction.

The research findings revealed significant disparities in IAQ and ventilation across different floors of the school building. Ground floor classrooms exhibited compromised ventilation rates attributed to the obstructive structure of an elevated concrete fence. The presence of this barrier hindered airflow, aggravating indoor temperature and humidity levels, thus affecting the comfort of occupants. High relative humidity in selected ground floor classrooms raised concerns about potential health risks, including mold growth and respiratory issues, underscoring the need of addressing ventilation deficiencies.

Additionally, compliance to DOLE guidelines facilitated the identification of potential insights to improve IAQ and ventilation, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. Recommendations include strategic modifications to the building's infrastructure to enhance airflow and mitigate barriers to ventilation, particularly on the ground floor. Moreover, initiatives to educate stakeholders about the importance of IAQ and ventilation are imperative to build a culture of proactive maintenance and environmental awareness within the school community.

The study emphasizes the crucial role of IAQ and ventilation in molding the learning environment and highlights the importance of proactive measures to safeguard student well-being and academic performance. By incorporating DOLE guidelines and leveraging multidisciplinary approaches, this research provides valuable insights for policymakers, educators, and facility managers to address IAQ concerns effectively and create conducive learning environments that prioritize the health, safety, and productivity of students.

Presenting Author: Ronald Galindo Cebu Technological University

Presenting Author Biography: Ronald M. Galindo, PME, DPA, Dev.Ed.D., Ph.D. is a Professional Mechanical Engineer, University Director for International Quality Assurance, an Associate Professor, and Dean, College of Engineering of Cebu Technological University, Cebu City. A life member of PSME, PAEPI, SUCTEA, member of ASME, PHILARM and an awardee “GARBO sa CNU 2012”, Search for Outstanding Volunteer NEDA R7 Awardee (2015, 2016, 2017), a Runner-up of the PRC Most Outstanding Professional 2017 Award in Mechanical Engineering, Outstanding Mechanical Engineer 2018, a Fellow in PSME 2022, the Best Paper Awardee during the International Conference on Technological Challenges for Better World 2019 and one of the Recognition Awardees during the Amping Cebuano Tribute 2021 for his exemplary commitment and dedicated community service during the Cebu Technological University’s response to the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Authors:

Ronald Galindo Cebu Technological University