What does Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) refer to?

Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) refers to the overall condition of air within buildings and structures, particularly as it relates to the health and comfort of the occupants. This encompasses a wide range of factors, including airborne hazards such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs), particulate matter, carbon monoxide, and biological contaminants like mold and bacteria. By defining IAQ in this broader context, it becomes clear that it is not limited to just chemical contaminants; instead, it includes any airborne hazards that can affect people's health and comfort within indoor environments.

Understanding IAQ is crucial for ensuring safe and healthy living and working conditions. Poor IAQ can lead to various health problems, respiratory issues, and discomfort, making it essential for any assessment or monitoring of indoor environments to consider all potential hazards, both chemical and biological.

The other choices focus too narrowly on either specific contaminants or unrelated factors. For instance, limiting IAQ to only chemicals ignores the significant impact of biological agents and particulates. Similarly, considering outdoor air quality does not reflect the indoor conditions that people directly experience, and while temperature and humidity are important for comfort, they are just parts of the overall IAQ picture rather than the complete definition.