Remaining at home could leave you exposed to indoor air pollution, study reveals

Remaining at home could leave you exposed to indoor air pollution, study reveals
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Staying indoors for extended periods, particularly during the Christmas and New Year holidays, may increase exposure to indoor air pollution, according to recent UK-based research cited by The Guardian. While remaining at home can reduce contact with outdoor pollution, studies show that everyday household activities can generate significant levels of harmful airborne particles.

Research led by Dr James Heydon at the University of Nottingham monitored air quality in 20 UK homes over four weeks. All homes were fitted with Defra-approved wood-burning stoves permitted for use in smoke control areas. The study found that wood burning caused sharp spikes in indoor air pollution, particularly during routine activities such as lighting the stove, opening the door to refuel, and tending the fire.

Similar findings were reported by research teams from Imperial College London and the University of Surrey in studies conducted in south-east England and Cornwall. Heydon noted that reducing the frequency of refuelling, opening stove doors slowly and briefly, improving ventilation, and avoiding stove use when children or people with health conditions are present can help lower exposure.

Indoor air pollution from solid fuel burning can also affect neighbouring homes. Campaign group Mums for Lungs, using freedom of information requests, reported that around 15,000 complaints are made each year to local councils about smoke from neighbours’ fires.

Cooking is another major contributor. Professor Sarah West from the University of York, part of the Ingenious study, said monitoring of 310 homes in Bradford showed the highest particle pollution levels were linked to cooking, particularly frying. The research team recommends using extractor fans or opening windows during cooking, as well as when using cleaning products or scented sprays.

Researchers say greater awareness of indoor pollution sources and simple behavioural changes can significantly reduce health risks.