Dubai residents concerned about air quality

Recently, there has been an increase in concern about residential air quality among Dubai residents. This is indicative of an increased focus on Sick Building Syndrome (SBS). Residents, investors and building managers are increasingly focusing on creating healthy living environments.

Symptoms such as headaches, a scratchy throat, itchy eyes and breathing problems can result from poor air quality. Property market experts say this focus on wellbeing and a move towards more ‘healthy’ buildings is becoming a standard expectation rather than a luxury.

Commercial property agent Ahmed Yassin emphasises that the demand for facilities that promote health is becoming a necessity.

‘Sick building syndrome’, manifested in the form of headaches, fatigue and respiratory problems, has become a wake-up call for the industry. According to Khalid Salah, senior operations manager at Taqeef, heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems play a key role in indoor air quality. ‘Poor HVAC design or maintenance can contribute significantly to SBS,’ he noted.

To combat SBS, Salah recommends regular maintenance of HVAC systems, including changing filters and humidity control. Government initiatives have already begun in the UAE to address these issues. Regulations and guidelines have been developed to raise indoor air quality standards and ensure that new and existing buildings meet strict sanitation requirements.

Ibrahim Imam, co-founder and CEO of PlanRadar, emphasises the importance of regular maintenance of ventilation systems and monitoring CO2 levels. ‘As people spend more than 90 per cent of their time indoors, addressing these issues becomes critical,’ he added.

Experts recommend that occupants proactively report SBS-related symptoms, which will help building managers respond quickly to problems. Involving tenants in the process promotes a healthy indoor environment and increases satisfaction.

Source: Khaleej Times