CO2 Data Logging and Monitoring in Schools
As a facilities manager at a large county school district in Pennsylvania planned for the start of the upcoming term, he knew this year would be unlike any other. Anxious students, teachers, and administrators, concerned about the ongoing international pandemic, would soon be entering the district’s buildings. Proper air circulation in buildings has always been a top priority, but the facilities manager recognized that this year air quality would play an even more important role in maintaining a healthy environment. He knew that he needed to be proactive and employ a solution that allowed him to repeatedly test and monitor all district HVAC systems to ensure maximum performance required for optimal fresh air circulation. He also knew that monitoring carbon dioxide (CO2) levels indoors would help him to ensure proper circulation of fresh air, while reducing stagnant air that might retain virus particles. Initially, the main task at hand was to verify that all district buildings met the most current ASHRAE (American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and AirConditioning Engineers) standards. Knowing that testing and monitoring would be the starting point, the facilities manager contacted Onset for recommendations on CO2 data logging and monitoring.
Solution
Onset recommended the HOBO MX1102A, a compact, battery-powered, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE)-enabled data logger for convenient measuring and recording of CO2, temperature, and relative humidity in buildings. The MX1102A features a long six-month battery life and a large LCD for visual inspection. And it works with Onset’s free HOBOconnect app and a mobile phone or tablet so users can access data and configure audible alarm notifications when within 100 feet of the logger. Due to its compact size, battery-power operation, and BLE technology, the logger can be installed in safe, hardto-reach locations, while allowing facilities workers to offload data without having to disturb classrooms or other workspaces where a logger is deployed. With the addition of Onset’s MX Gateway device, data can be collected from the HOBO MX1102A logger and automatically sent via Ethernet or WiFi communication to HOBOlink, Onset’s cloud-based platform. With HOBOlink, data can be viewed anywhere at any time, simply by logging into an online user account, which can also be set up to send alarm notifications via text or email should conditions exceed user-set thresholds.
Results
The facilities manager has installed numerous MX1102A loggers and MX Gateways throughout the school district’s buildings for continuous monitoring of CO2, temperature, and relative humidity. The data collected from the loggers enables performance optimization of the buildings’ HVAC systems to ensure that indoor air quality is conducive to health and safety standards. The safer environment will ultimately contribute to the quality of the students’ education by enabling them to continue learning in a live classroom. Using the data recorded by the MX1102A loggers, the district will also be able to strictly follow ASHRAE guidelines and guarantee that its demand-controlled ventilation (DCV) systems comply with local requirements. Remote alarm notifications set up with the MX1102A loggers and the MX Gateway will provide quick identification of any equipment malfunctions, so they can be fixed promptly. Getting the schools’ HVAC systems operating at peak performance prior to the start of the school year was crucial. Having a system in place to continually check and verify brings peace of mind!
Products Used
HOBO MX1102A data logger (For the continuous monitoring of CO2, temperature, and relative humidity)
HOBO MX Gateway (To collect data from the HOBO MX1102A logger and automatically send it to HOBOlink, Onset’s cloud-based platform)
HOBOlink – Onset’s cloud-based platform Product (To monitor CO2, temperature, and relative humidity conditions, and send alarm notifications via text or email should conditions exceed user-set thresholds)
Air Monitoring for Schools in Singapore
Firstly, monitoring air quality in schools is important to ensure that the indoor environment is healthy and safe for students and teachers. Poor air quality can cause a range of health issues, such as headaches, dizziness, and respiratory problems. This can affect students’ ability to concentrate and learn, and can also impact teachers’ performance in the classroom. By monitoring air quality, schools can identify and address sources of indoor air pollution, such as mould or chemical cleaning products, to improve the health and well-being of everyone in the building.
Secondly, monitoring air quality in schools can also help to identify potential sources of outdoor air pollution. Singapore has a high population density and is surrounded by industrial areas and busy roadways, which can contribute to poor outdoor air quality. This can have a negative impact on the health of students and teachers who spend time outdoors during the school day, such as during recess or physical education classes. By monitoring outdoor air quality, schools can take steps to reduce exposure to pollutants, such as scheduling outdoor activities during times of lower pollution levels.
Thirdly, monitoring air quality can help to raise awareness among students and teachers about the importance of maintaining good indoor air quality. This can lead to changes in behaviour, such as using non-toxic cleaning products, opening windows for ventilation, and avoiding the use of air fresheners. Educating students about the importance of good indoor air quality can also encourage them to bring these habits home, which can have a positive impact on the health and well-being of their families.
Finally, monitoring air quality in schools is important for the wider community in Singapore. Poor air quality can lead to increased healthcare costs and lost productivity, and can also have a negative impact on the environment. By improving indoor air quality in schools, we can help to reduce the burden on the healthcare system and create a healthier and more sustainable environment for future generations.
Overall, monitoring air quality in Singapore schools is an important step in creating a healthy and safe learning environment for students and teachers, and can have a positive impact on the health and well-being of the wider community.
Energy-Saving Measures in Schools
Implementing energy-saving measures for schools in Singapore can help to improve indoor air quality, which is an important aspect of maintaining a healthy and safe learning environment.
For example, by using energy-efficient HVAC systems, schools can improve ventilation and reduce the concentration of pollutants in the air. Additionally, green cleaning practices can help to reduce the use of harmful chemicals that can contribute to poor indoor air quality.
By improving indoor air quality, students and teachers are more likely to be comfortable and satisfied with their environment, which can reduce the need for frequent temperature or ventilation adjustments. This can lead to energy savings by reducing the energy consumption and costs associated with operating HVAC systems.
Furthermore, implementing energy-saving measures can also have a positive impact on the wider community in Singapore. Energy conservation can help to reduce the demand for electricity and the associated emissions from power generation, which can contribute to improved outdoor air quality.
By taking a holistic approach to building management, Singapore schools can create a comfortable, healthy, and sustainable learning environment for students and teachers while also contributing to the broader goal of creating a greener and more sustainable Singapore.
Interested to know how we can help you with Air Quality Management? Feel free to contact us!
