IMPACT OF CONTAMINATED INTERIOR FINISHING MATERIALS ON THE EDUCATIONAL BUILDINGS

Abstract

This paper focuses on the impact of indoor finishing material contaminations such as Formaldehyde (HCHO) and Volatile organic compounds (VOCS). These contaminations are reflected through harmful effects on the health of occupants in the indoor environment, reflecting negatively on the comfort, satisfaction, and productivity of inhabitants in the indoor environment. The research focuses particularly on educational buildings as a case study and the effect of contaminations in a design studio located in a faculty building of a university in Debbieh, Lebanon. During the first year of building use, the study checked the concentration of (HCHO) and (VOCS) through the use of an air quality meter in different periods of time. Following the tests, the study implemented a new method to discharge contaminations prior to occupants using the building. This document leads to the technical process to release contaminations, becoming a guideline for further professional practice. The research combines theoretical with the applicable methods to offer the best practices for releasing such contaminations.