Comprehensive Assessment and Mitigation of Indoor Air Quality in a Commercial Retail Building in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

The acceleration of industrialization and urbanization worldwide has dramatically improved living standards but has also introduced serious environmental and public health challenges. One of the most critical challenges is air pollution, particularly indoors, where individuals typically spend over 90% of their time. Ensuring good Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) is essential, especially in heavily frequented public spaces such as shopping malls. This study focuses on assessing IAQ in a large shopping mall located in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, covering retail zones as well as an attached underground parking area. Monitoring is conducted over a continuous two-month period using calibrated instruments placed at representative locations to capture variations in pollutant levels. The investigation targets key contaminants, including carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO2), fine particulate matter (PM2.5), total volatile organic compounds (TVOCs), and formaldehyde (HCHO). The data are analyzed and compared against international and national guidelines, including World Health Organization (WHO) standards and Saudi environmental regulations. The results show that concentrations of CO, CO2, and PM2.5 in the shopping mall are generally within acceptable limits, with values ranging from approximately 7 to 15 ppm, suggesting that ventilation systems are effective in most areas. However, the study identifies high levels of TVOCs and HCHO, particularly in zones characterized by poor ventilation and high human occupancy. Peak concentrations reach 1.48 mg/m3 for TVOCs and 1.43 mg/m3 for HCHO, exceeding recommended exposure thresholds. These findings emphasize the urgent need for enhancing ventilation designs, prioritizing the use of low-emission materials, and establishing continuous air quality monitoring protocols within commercial buildings. Improving IAQ is not only crucial for protecting public health but also for enhancing occupant comfort, satisfaction, and overall building sustainability. This study offers practical recommendations to policymakers, building managers, and designers striving to create healthier indoor environments in rapidly expanding urban centers.