In Pursuit of Healthier Learning Environments: High-Altitude Classroom Ventilation

Abstract

This study addresses the critical issue of indoor air quality (IAQ) and pathogen transmission within enclosed spaces at high altitudes, focusing on university classrooms in Quito, an Andean city in South America. The aim is to establish safety thresholds for room occupancy and permissible durations of exposure, tailored to this unique environmental context. Through an experimental approach conducted at an elevation of 2900 m above sea level, various natural ventilation strategies were evaluated for their efficacy in mitigating pathogen transmission risks. The study employs the Concentration Decay Test Method to characterize air changes per hour (ACH) and utilizes the Bazant mathematical model to predict occupancy levels based on ventilation, dimensions of the room, respiratory activity, infectiousness rates, and other parameters. Findings highlight the significant impact of ventilation strategies on room occupancy. Notably, higher infectiousness rates and large exposure times drastically reduce permissible occupancy levels, underscoring the importance of effective ventilation in maintaining safety. This research contributes valuable insights for informed decision-making regarding classroom capacity and safety protocols in Andean higher education settings.