Why Indoor Air Quality Matters More Than Ever
Indoor air quality (IAQ) has long been a key consideration in workplace health and safety. But in recent years—especially following the pandemic—organisations are increasingly aware of the role that building systems and environmental hygiene play in supporting a safe and productive workforce.
From increased concerns over mould, dust, and ventilation issues, to the potential for Legionella bacteria in underused or aging water systems, the spotlight is now firmly on how buildings can impact worker wellbeing.
What Are the Risks?
A global risk report by Allianz Global Corporate & Specialty identified indoor air quality as one of the emerging liability concerns for employers and insurers. In buildings that are poorly maintained, inadequately ventilated, or have experienced periods of disuse (e.g. over holidays or low-occupancy periods), certain risks may be heightened:
- Mould growth in damp or poorly ventilated areas
- Dust and particulate accumulation in HVAC systems
- Legionella bacteria in stagnant water systems
- Chemical residue and VOCs from cleaning products or fit-outs
- Poor air exchange rates affecting comfort and cognitive function
These issues don’t just impact physical health—they can also contribute to absenteeism, discomfort, reduced productivity, and concerns about workplace safety.
What About Legionnaires’ Disease?
One of the more serious indoor air quality concerns in commercial buildings is Legionnaires’ disease, caused by Legionella bacteria in water systems. While rare, outbreaks can occur when building cooling towers, taps, showers, or other water systems aren’t properly maintained.
Dr Angus Forbes, Occupational and Environmental Physician at Phoenix Occupational Medicine, explains:
“The key to preventing Legionnaires’ disease is to ensure building owners and managers maintain water systems appropriately. It’s not contagious and usually spreads through contaminated water droplets—not person-to-person like influenza or COVID.”
In Australia, most office buildings maintained basic operations even during low occupancy periods, reducing the likelihood of Legionella issues. However, regular maintenance and HVAC risk assessments remain essential.
How Can Employers and Building Managers Respond?
Rather than triggering alarm, a common-sense approach is advised. Organisations can reduce risk and reassure employees by focusing on:
- Regular HVAC inspections and maintenance
- Ensuring adequate air flow and ventilation in workspaces
- Routine water system flushing and disinfection
- Indoor environmental monitoring (e.g. humidity, CO₂ levels)
- Clear communication with staff around health and safety measures
For buildings that have experienced long periods of minimal use (e.g. seasonal closures), recommissioning of air and water systems before re-occupancy is a best-practice measure.
There is also growing momentum toward formalising indoor air quality benchmarks. Professor Lidia Morawska of QUT is leading a national push for enforceable indoor air quality standards in public buildings—an initiative recently highlighted in Science and the QUT Law Research Blog. While these proposals remain aspirational rather than legislated, they signal a shift toward a more proactive and preventative approach to environmental health in workplaces.
This makes it all the more important for employers to stay ahead by adopting best practices now, even in the absence of mandates.
The Role of Occupational and Environmental Physicians
OEPs are not only trained in workplace injury and illness—they’re also qualified in environmental medicine, including the impact of indoor environments on health. They can assist with:
- Interpreting IAQ data and occupational exposure limits
- Advising on appropriate controls and maintenance strategies
- Conducting health risk assessments for employees
- Communicating evidence-based reassurance to the workforce
As Dr Forbes puts it:
“We know emotions can run high when it comes to perceived health risks. An OEP provides a calm, evidence-based perspective so that organisations can move forward with confidence.”
Support Your Workforce with a Healthy Environment
A safe workplace starts with the air your employees breathe. Whether you manage a high-rise office, industrial site, or remote facility, Phoenix Occupational Medicine can assist you with expert environmental health advice tailored to your business.
Contact us today to arrange a consultation or environmental health assessment.
