JOAQUIN - Joint Air Quality Initiative Work Package 2 - Action 8 Reducing public exposure to indoor air pollution: Assessing the effectiveness of air filtration systems on health-relevant pollutants in schools.

In this study the application of high performance air filtration was tested in seven educational buildings in Northwestern Europe, mainly primary schools. This study shows that high performance air filtration can reduce exposure to traffic-related air pollution of school children at hot spot locations.Filtration is only effective, however, if filters are frequently replaced and the ventilation system properly maintained. We encountered a variety of maintenance related problems, which may result in air filtering posing health risks from inadequate ventilation. If a filter is applied and proper maintenance is guaranteed, F9 is the best choice. Siting schools away from busy roadways is always the preferred option, however.