Determination of aerial microbiological contamination in scholastic sports environments

Abstract

Aims: To assess the microbiological indoor air quality (IAQ) of high school and college gyms during physical training lessons and to evaluate the effective microbiological exposure of students. Methods and Results: Air samples from 11 high school and college gyms of Pavia, Italy were collected. Total bacterial counts, total fungal counts and characterization of fungal taxa were determined. Air quality was evaluated using three microbiological contamination indices: the global index of microbiological contamination per m 3 (GIMC per m 3 ), the index of mesophilic bacterial contamination (IMC) and the amplification index (AI). Conclusions: This work testifies that air contamination in indoor gyms is always superior to that of the outdoor environment. Nevertheless, students are exposed to relatively low concentrations of airborne micro-organisms. The highest values of fungal counts and GIMC per m 3 (>14 661) were observed between April and October when the central heating systems were switched off. The lowest fungal counts were detected in modern buildings equipped with forced ventilation systems. From qualitative aeromycological studies, 45 fungal taxa were identified, and different potentially allergenic species were isolated. Significance and Impact of the Study: The standardization of air sampling methods and the correct evaluation of aeromicrobiological results allow the classification of indoor air healthiness. The proposed microbiological contamination indices together with the characterization of airborne fungal taxa are useful tools for detailed description of IAQ.

Indoor Air quality related to occupancy at an air-conditioned public building

“…The geometric mean indoor concentration of airborne bacterial was 541 CFU/m 3 ranging from 110 to 1955 CFU/m 3 . Presently, there is no sufficient information on dose-exposition relationships regarding viable and cultivable biological agents (Dacarro et al, 2003). Despite the intense interest in the role of bioaerosols to health, there is no consensus for regulatory limits on airborne bacterial concentrations in indoor air (Bartlett et al, 2004).…”

Indoor Aeroallergens in Asthmatic Pediatric Population in Annaba (Algeria)

“…It is well known that genetic factors as well as the presence of allergens in the environment are the main causes for triggering asthma in children. Nowadays, we spend 80-95% of our lives in indoor environments and breathe approximately 10 m 3 of air per day (Dacarro et al, 2003) containing a large number of fungal spores. So, the indoor air quality plays a key role in the development of several diseases of the airway tract especially asthma.…”

Environmental Quality in Sports Facilities: Perception and Indoor Air Quality

“…A wider approach can take advantage from the combined determination of microclimatic parameters, microbiological air analysis, as well as evaluation of individual perceptions by customized ad hoc questionnaires (Dacarro, 2003).…”