Indoor Air Quality (PM2.5, PM10 and CO2) in Academic Lecture Theatre in University of Lagos, Nigeria

Abstract

Abstract
Purpose – The purpose of this study is to investigate the indoor air quality within a lecture theatre at University of Lagos, Nigeria. With a view to providing credible data for IAQ management and awareness on the effects of indoor air pollutants to occupants.

Method – Quantitative research method was adopted for this study. The research design was a combination of field measurement and a survey design approach (through questionnaire). The study was conducted in Faculty of Engineering lecture theatre (ELT). ELT was selected due to it, being frequently used by a large number of students for lectures. Major considerations for this study are concentrations of CO2, PM2.5 and PM10, temperature and humidity within the building. The data collection instruments were portable handheld air quality monitors, a checklist and a structured air quality questionnaire. This study used time series analysis, relative important index (RII), and equation for data analyse.

Result – The result shows that the average indoor PM2.5, PM10 and CO2 over 24 hours monitoring at ELT are 17 µg/m³, 28 µg/m³ and 982 pmm respectively. The indoor PM2.5 was higher than WHO benchmark while indoor CO2 was marginally lower than WHO recommendation. Indoor AQI at ELT is 61 (Level 2). Feeling of discomfort (too hot) arose at about 50 % capacity of the theatre with symptoms such as loss of concentration, irritated eye and sweatiness.

Research Limitation – The study focused on ELT, which is a lecture theatre in Faculty of Engineering and did not consider other classrooms in the Faculty.

Conclusion, practical and theoretical implications – The study therefore concludes that the
indoor air quality at ELT is poor due to high level of pollutants present. This study brings to
fore the pattern of air contaminants at ELT and the need for adequate measures to curtail it.